Itron CCU100A Users Manual
ChoiceConnect
CCU 100 and Repeater 100 Installat ion Guide
Identification
fonction ner avec une a ntenne d'u n ty pe et d'un g ain m axim al (o u inf érie ur) a ppro uvé po ur
CCU 100 and Repeater 100 Install ati o n G ui de
29 July 2011 TDC-0971-xxx
Copyright
© 2010-2011 Itron, Inc. All rights reserved.
Confidentiality Notice
The information contained herein is proprietary and confidential and is being provided subject to the condition that (i) it be held in confidence except to the extent required otherwise by
law and (ii) it will be used only for the purposes described herein. Any third party that is given access to this information shall be similarly bound in writing.
Trademark Notice
Itron is a registered trademark of Itron, Inc.
All other product names and logos in this documentation are used for identification purposes only and may be trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective companies.
Suggestions
If you have comments or suggestions on how we may improve this documentation, send them to TechnicalCommunicationsManager@itron.com
If you have questions or comments about the software or hardware product, contact Itron Technical Support:
Contact
• Internet: www.itron.com
• E-mail: support@itron.com
• Phone: 1 877 487 66 02
Compliance
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions:
• This device may not cause harmful interference.
• This device must accept any interference that may cause undesirable operation.
This device must be permanently mounted such that it retains a distance of 20 centimeters (7.9 inches) from all persons in order to comply with FCC RF exposure levels.
USA, FCC Class B - Part 15
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable
protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance
with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation.
If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct
the interference by one or more of the following measures:
• Reorient or rel oc a t e th e r ec ei v ing antenna.
• Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.
• Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected.
• Consult the deal er or an experienc e d ra di o or TV technicia n f or help.
Compliance Statement Canada Déclaration de Con form ité
Under Industry Canada regulations, this radio transmitter may only
Conformément à la réglementation d'Industrie Canada, le présent émetteur radio peut
operate using an antenna of a type and maximum (or lesser) gain
approved for the transmitter by Industry Canada. To reduce potential
radio interference to other users, the antenna type and its gain should be
so chosen that the equivalent isotropically radiated power (e.i.r.p.) is not
more than that necessary for successful communication.
l'émetteur par Industrie Canada. Dans le but de réduire les risques de brouillage
radioélectrique à l'intention des autres utilisateurs, il faut choisir le type d'antenne et son
gain de sorte que la puissance isotrope rayonnée équivalente (p.i.r.e.) ne dépasse pas
l'intensité nécessaire à l'établissement d'une communication satisfaisante.
This dev ice c ompl ies w ith I ndustr y Ca nada lice nce-exempt RSS
standard(s). 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.
Caution ELECTROMAGNETIC COMPATIBILITY
Use only approved accessories with this equipment. In general all cables must be
high quality, shielded, and correctly terminated. Unapproved modifications or
operation beyond or in conflict with these instructions for use, may void
authorization by the authorities to operate the equipment.
Le présent appareil est conforme aux CNR d'Industrie Canada applicables aux appareils
radio exempts de licence. L'exploitation est autorisée aux deux conditions suivantes : (1)
l'appareil ne doit pas produire de brouillage, et (2) l'utilisateur de l'appareil doit accepter
tout brouillage radioélectrique subi, même si le brouillage est susceptible d'en
compromettre le fonctionnement.
Proprietary and Confidential
Contents
Before You Begin .......................................................................................................... v
Documentation Conventions ............................................................................................................... v
Related Documents ............................................................................................................................. v
Chapter 1 CCU/Repeater Basics ................................................................................. 1
CCU Configuration .............................................................................................................................. 1
CCU/Repeater Components ............................................................................................................... 2
CCU/Repeater Module .............................................................................................................. 2
External GPS/WAN Antenna System ....................................................................................... 4
900 MHz Antenna ..................................................................................................................... 5
Chapter 2 Planning a CCU/Repeater Installation ....................................................... 7
Installation Profiles .............................................................................................................................. 7
Siting CCUs/Repeaters ....................................................................................................................... 8
Propagation Study and CCU/Repeater Site Selection.............................................................. 8
GPS and WAN Coverage ......................................................................................................... 8
AC Service Requirements ......................................................................................................... 9
External Ethernet Connections ................................................................................................. 9
Remote 900 MHz Antenna Placement ................................................................................... 10
Grounding the Antenna System .............................................................................................. 11
Lightning Arrestor .............................................................................................................................. 12
AC Mains Power ................................................................................................................................ 13
DC Mains Power ............................................................................................................................... 13
Materials Not Provided by Itron ......................................................................................................... 13
Coaxial Cable .......................................................................................................................... 13
Antenna Connectors ............................................................................................................... 15
Mounting Hardware ................................................................................................................. 15
CCU 100 and Repeater 100 Installation Guide iii
Contents
Proprietary and Confidential
Chapter 3 Installing the CCU/Repeater ..................................................................... 17
Installation Overview ......................................................................................................................... 17
Attaching the External GPS/WAN Antennas ..................................................................................... 18
Attaching the Direct Mount 900 MHz Antenna .................................................................................. 19
Attaching the CCU/Repeater ............................................................................................................. 21
Mounting Hardware ................................................................................................................. 21
Pipe Mount .............................................................................................................................. 22
Pole Mount .............................................................................................................................. 24
Wall Mount .............................................................................................................................. 26
Davit Arm Mount ..................................................................................................................... 27
Connecting Cables ............................................................................................................................ 29
Installing the Battery .......................................................................................................................... 34
Providing Power ................................................................................................................................ 37
AC Installation Diagram ..................................................................................................................... 38
Tower Installation .............................................................................................................................. 38
Tower Installation Overview .................................................................................................... 39
TCU Components ................................................................................................................... 40
AC Tower Installation Diagram ............................................................................................... 43
Solar Powered Installation ................................................................................................................. 44
Solar Installation Overview ..................................................................................................... 44
Solar Wiring Diagram .............................................................................................................. 45
Solar Installation Diagram ....................................................................................................... 47
Chapter 4 Battery Care and Replacement ................................................................ 49
Shipping Requirements ..................................................................................................................... 49
Battery Storage and Charging ........................................................................................................... 50
Long-Term Storage ................................................................................................................. 50
State of Charge ....................................................................................................................... 51
Charge the Battery .................................................................................................................. 51
Battery Service Life ........................................................................................................................... 52
Calendar Life ........................................................................................................................... 52
Preventative Maintenanc e ...................................................................................................... 52
Replacing the Integrated Battery ....................................................................................................... 53
Appendix A Detailed CCU/Repeater Specifications ................................................ 55
CCU/Repeater Dimensions and Weight ............................................................................................ 55
Antenna Specifications ...................................................................................................................... 58
Environmental Specifications ............................................................................................................ 60
Transmitter ........................................................................................................................................ 60
CCU/Repeater Power Operating Range ........................................................................................... 60
Battery Pack ...................................................................................................................................... 61
Appendix B Status and Diagnostics ......................................................................... 63
Status Indicator ................................................................................................................................. 63
Performing an Antenna Sweep Test ................................................................................................. 64
Index ............................................................................................................................. 65
iv CCU 100 and Repeater 100 Installation Guide
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Convention
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Before You Begin
Important Proper installation of the CCU/Repeater ensures trouble-free operation
of the Itron Fixed Network system. The installation of both the collector and
repeater must be done by professional installers.
Documentation Conventions
This document uses the following conventions.
Key presses are in bold. Click OK to finish.
Menu paths are in bold. Select Sta rt > File > Save As .
Computer com mands t o be ty ped by t he use r
are in a
File names are in a
Hypertext links are blue. See the Copyright page f or the contact inf ormation.
font.
font. The data is uploaded to the
At the C: prompt, type cd itron/bin
file
Note A note indicates neutral or positive information that stresses or
supplements important points of the main text. A note supplies information that
may apply only in special cases.
Caution A caution advises users that failure to take or avoid a specified action
could result in a loss of data.
Warning A warning advises users that failure to take or avoid a specified
action could result in physical harm to the user or the hardware.
Tip A tip helps users apply the techniques and procedures described in the text
to their specific needs. A tip is not essential to the basic understanding of the text.
Related Documents
For more information about CCUs/Repeaters and the Fixed Network, see the following:
• Network Collection Engine v4.x User Guide
• Motorola R56 Manual- Standards and Guidelines for Communication Sites
Available from Motorola. This manual illustrates industry best practices for mounting
and grounding antenna systems, and routing antenna cables into buildings. Use this
guide as a reference when remotely mounting the 900 MHz antenna.
CCU 100 and Repeater 100 Installation Guide v
Before You Begin
vi CCU 100 and Repeater 100 Installation Guide
Proprietary and Confidential
Proprietary and Confidential
C HAPTER 1
CCU/Repeater Basics
The CCU 100 (also known as a cell control unit or collector) and the Repeater 100 are
configurable for different installation locations, including:
• On a water or communications tower.
• On a pole (such as an electricity or light pole).
• On a wall (indoor or outdoor).
• On a pipe (between 2 and 3.5 inches in diameter).
• On a roof.
Integrated mounting and coupling brackets secure the device in high winds and under
heavy ice loads.
The CCU 100 also supports an optional solar power kit. Kits are sized by peak sun hour
calculations which vary regionally across the country. The kit includes solar panels and a
large battery backup unit. Size and weights vary by package type (based on peak sun
hours).
A CCU/Repeater consists of a number of components in a single weatherproof device.
Electrical components are encased in a plastic enclosure that provides double insulation
and a high level of safety for the installer.
Caution Only authorized Itron personnel may open this device. Unauthorized
access or modifications to this device voids the warranty.
Per FCC rules, unapproved modifications or operation beyond or in conflict with
these instructions for use could void the user's authority to operate the equipment.
CCU Configuration
A Fixed Network system administrator must configure each CCU 100 before it can be
installed in the fi eld. Verify with your supervisor or the sy ste m administrato r th at a ll
CCUs are configured before you attempt to install them.
Please see the Collector Configuration Application v4.x User Guide for more information.
CCU 100 and Repeater 100 Installation Guide 1
Chapter 1 CCU/Repeater Basics
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CCU/Repeater Components
The CCU 100 and Repeater 100 come in two basic configurations; they may have either
internal GPS/WAN antennas or external GPS/WAN antennas. The external
CCU/Repeater configuration replaces the internal GPS/WAN antennas with external
antenna connectors that allow both GPS and WAN antennas to be mounted externally. In
the case of the Repeater 100, only an external GPS connection is provided; a WAN
modem is not present in a repeater. Both internal antenna and external antenna
configurations allow for remotely mounting the 900 MHz antenna by removing the
antenna from the unit and attaching it to a remote antenna mounting plate.
Since the CCU/Repeater may be installed in an outdoor environment, each component of
the CCU/Repeater is weather-tight and can withstand wind requirements in excess of 100
MPH.
Note When determining the configuration of the CCU/Repeater, be sure to review
the Fixed Network 100 Ordering Guide for specific part numbers, cable lengths, and
various options for the components.
CCU/Repeater Module
The CCU/Repeater case houses the backup battery, GPS receiver, optional WAN radio,
processing board and 900 MHz radio. The antennas for the radios can be either internally
or externally connected, depending on the CCU/Repeater configuration.
Caution Only authorized Itron personnel may open this device. Unauthorized access
or modifications to this device voids the warranty.
Per FCC rules, unapproved modifications or operation beyond or in conflict with
these instructions for use could void the user's authority to operate the equipment.
2 CCU 100 and Repeater 100 Installation Guide
CCU/Repeater Components
Proprietary and Confidential
The CCU shown below has connectors for the external GPS/WAN antennas. The
Item
Description
component connections are described in the following table.
CCU/Repeater module
1
Processes data from the an tennas and relays it on to the Fixed Network A pplication Software. Only
authorized It ron pe rsonnel may open this module.
900 MHz antenna
2
This 900MHz antenna receives m essages from an d sends messag es to endpoints and repe aters in the
network. The connection for th is antenn a is a Type N fem ale.
CCU/Repeater label
3
Displays the collector ident ification n umber, model number, and other associated inf ormation.
Power connector
4
Supplies power to the CC U/Repeater module. A C mains, DC , or sola r pow er options are ava ilable. A
three pin cable connects th e CCU/Repeater to th e mains s upply. A two pin cable connects the
CCU/Repeater to a DC supply . A five pin cable c onnects the CCU/Repeater to th e solar sys tem.
External GPS antenna connector
5
This female SMA connector is only on th e external antenna C CU/Repeater. Use this c onnector w hen
mounting the GPS antenna externally.
External WAN antenna connector
6
This female N connector is only on the extern al antenna CC U. Use this connect or when mounting
the WAN antenna externally .
CCU 100 and Repeater 100 Installation Guide 3
Chapter 1 CCU/Repeater Basics
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Item
Description
Ethernet
7
Connects the CCU/Repeater to th e Ethernet back haul. Als o used to connect th e CCU/Repeater to a
router for initial collect or setup. Matin g weatherproof cables are available f rom Itron. Thes e cables are
sealed industrial ethernet ci rcular IP67 conn ectors (CONEC)
Note A waterproof cap seals the Eth ernet port from the elements in the field. Be sure t o securely
attach the cap once the collect or is in stalled.
Ground lug
8
The ground lug is provided on both the CCU and the Repeater and shoul d be attached to earth ground
if no ground is available in the three conductor power cable or when using a photocell adapter. This
ground helps protect the internal circuitry from high voltage transient events. The ground lug accepts
AWG minimum wire size 14, and m aximum wire size 4.
Status indicator
9
This indicator displays t he current operational s tatus of the C CU/Repeater. See Status Indicator on
page 63 for more information.
(Not shown) Batter y door
*
Removal of this door allow s access to the r eplaceable battery pack.
External GPS/WAN Antenna System
The external antenna CCU/Repeater configuration uses a GPS/WAN antenna kit that is
connected to the CCU/Repeater by one or two separate pieces of coaxial cable. Cables are
not included in the kit.
• The WAN antenna is only connected in CCU installations that use a wide area
network backhaul system.
• The GPS antenna is used in all deployments of this system.
The antennas must be installed in a location that allows reception of GPS and WAN
signals.
Itron recommends using a handheld GPS unit to verify that your GPS antenna mounting
location can receive a signal from at least three satellites.
For more information, see GPS and WAN Coverage on page 8.
Caution The external GPS antenna must be oriented vertically when installed, and it
must have an unobstructed view of the sky to properly receive a GPS signal.
4 CCU 100 and Repeater 100 Installation Guide
CCU/Repeater Components
Proprietary and Confidential
The external GPS/WAN antenna system is shown below.
Item
Description
1 External GPS antenna
Receives GPS data from orbiting satellites . The cable
connection on the bottom of this antenna is TNC Female.
2 Mounting bracket
Attaches the antenna to your desired mounting location.
3 Antenna masts
Provide support for the GPS and WAN antennas. Cables for
each antenna are routed through the masts. Clamps on the front
of the moun ting brack et secure the m asts.
4 External WAN antenna (CCU only)
Provides the wide-area n etwork (WAN) sign al for the CCU.
The Repeater does not use th is antenna. The cable connection
on the bottom of this antenna is N Female.
900 MHz Antenna
The 900 MHz antenna transmits and receives data messages from endpoints and repeaters
in the network.
There are three antennas that may be used for the 900 MHz radio link.
• A standard vertically polarized antenna that is directly attached to the CCU/Repeater.
• A standard vertically polarized antenna (5 dBi) that can be connected remotely.
• A high-gain vertically polarized remote antenna (8.15 dBi) that is mounted remotely
in place of the direct attached solution.
Remote antennas must be properly grounded during installation. When a remote antenna
is used, a lightning arrestor is supplied for this purpose.
CCU 100 and Repeater 100 Installation Guide 5
Chapter 1 CCU/Repeater Basics
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Coaxial cable used to connect the 900 MHz antenna to the CCU/Receiver must be
properly grounded. See Lightning Arrestor on page 12 for more information. All coaxial
cable connections must be properly weather-proofed per industry standards, unless
otherwise specified. If the CCU/Repeater is installed indoors, only the connections
located outside need to be weather-proofed. When the CCU/Repeater is ordered with a
remote 900 MHz antenna kit, some associated mounting hardware is included. Coaxial
cables for the remote 900 MHz antennas are not included in the kit. These cables must be
provided by the installer. Please see Coaxial Cable on page 13 for coaxial cable
specifications.
For more information, see:
• Antenna Specifications on page 58
• Remote 900 MHz Antenna Placement on page 10
• Grounding the Remote/External Antenna Systems on page 11
6 CCU 100 and Repeater 100 Installation Guide
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Location
Description
C HAPTER 2
Planning a CCU/Repeater Installation
This chapter describes how to prepare for a CCU /repea t er instal la tion .
Installation Profiles
The CCU/Repeater can be installed in a variety of configurations and locations.
Depending on the installation location, the CCU or Repeater components may be installed
all in the same place (as an integrated solution), or the GPS/WAN antennas may be
installed externally from the CCU/Repeater and the 900 MHz antenna can be installed
remotely (as a distributed solution).
For example, the CCU/Repeater can be installed at the base of a water tower, the external
GPS/WAN antenna system can be mounted further away for optimum reception, and the
900 MHz antenna can be placed at the top of the water tower.
The following profiles have been identified for CCU installation.
Utility pole The CCU/Repeater is installed on a utility pole. The CCU/Repeater should
Light pole The CCU/Repeater is installed on either a light pole or the davit arm that
Outdoor wall or pipe with remote
900 MHz antenna
Indoor wal l or pipe w ith r emote 900
MHz antenna and external
GPS/WAN antennas
Pipe The CCU/Repeater is secured t o a pipe or fen ce railing (from 2 to 3.5
be mounted as h igh as possible on the pol e for optimum recept ion.
extends from the light pole. The CCU/Repeater should be mounted as high
as possible on the pole for optim um reception.
The CCU/Repeater is installed on an outside wall or pipe with the 900 MHz
antenna remotely mount ed to achieve the m aximum elevation an d
reception.
The CCU/Repeater is installed inside an equipment room with the 900
MHz antenna remotely m ounted to achieve max imum elevation and
reception. The WAN (or other digital cellular) and GPS antenn a are
externally mounted to provide acceptable coverage.
inches in diameter). This type of installation typically occurs on the tops of
water towers.
For more information on these various profiles, as well as the Itron-recommended profile,
see Chapter 3, Installing the CCU/Repeater on page 17.
CCU 100 and Repeater 100 Installation Guide 7
Chapter 2 Planning a CCU/Repeater Installation
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Siting CCUs/Repeaters
CCUs/Repeaters are installed in the field on a variety of surfaces, such as wooden or
metal walls, metal pipes, fence railing, and utility poles.
When determining where to place the CCU/Repeater, there are four primary
considerations:
• Siting for optimum RF reception.
• Siting for optimum GPS and/or WAN reception.
• Availability of Ethernet connection (if required).
• Availability of power connection.
• Availability of a structure or location that can physically support the CCU/Repeater
and its mounting hardware.
Caution Always ensure that you have permission to install a CCU/Repeater at
your chosen site prior to beginning installation.
Propagation Study and CCU/Repeater Site Selection
Prior to installing a CCU/Repeater in the field, consult with Itron to perform a
propagation study. This study:
• Evaluates the quantity and types of endpoints in the network.
• Assesses environmental and geographical considerations related to CCU/Repeater
installation.
• Optimizes CCU/Repeater placement in the network for the best possible reception.
• Helps influence the physical and structural implications of mounting a CCU/Repeater
to a given surface.
Once the propagation study is complete, you can determine exactly where to install
CCUs/Repeaters and what they will be mounted to.
GPS and WAN Coverage
CCUs/Repeaters must be installed in locations where a GPS signal is strong and
consistent. If WAN is being used as the communications backhaul for the network, a
strong and consistent WAN signal is required as well (for CCUs only). If the signal is too
weak, or its availability fluctuates, the CCU/Repeater can not gather accurate date/time
information or communicate with the Fixed Network software.
Itron recommends using a handheld GPS unit to verify that your CCU/Repeater or
external GPS antenna mounting location can receive a signal from at least three satellites.
8 CCU 100 and Repeater 100 Installation Guide
Siting CCUs/Repeaters
Proprietary and Confidential
To ensure the best possible signal, avoid instal ling the CC U /Repea ter or the exter nal
antennas in the following ways:
• Adjacent to or between tall buildings, signs, towers, or bridges.
• Near swaying limbs, branches, or cables that could strike and damage the antenna.
• Between, beneath, or near highway overpasses, elevated train platforms, or tunnels.
• Near objects or devices attached to the same pole.
• Within 500 feet of high power radio frequency (RF) transmitters (such as paging
transmitters, cellular transmitters, and municipal communications transmitters).
• Near potential broadband sources of radiated RF energy (such as power line
transformers, RADAR transmitters, cellular antennas, and neon or fluorescent signs).
• Inside metal enclosures (the antennas will not communicate if surrounded by metal)
or inside a building. The CCU/Repeater can be installed in a building or other metal
enclosure, but the antennas must be installed externally.
Warning Before installing a CCU/Repeater near or on the same pole as a
transformer, consult the National Electrical Safety Code (NESC), local utilities,
municipalities, and cable and telephone companies for recommended distances
from transformers and power lines.
AC Service Requirements
A 90 to 265 VAC 10A power source is required at the installation site for the
CCU/Repeater, unless you are using the DC CCU/Repeater or the solar CCU/Repeater.
For more information on these options, see Mains Power Installation Profiles on page 13
or Solar Power Installation Profiles on page 44.
External Ethernet Connections
If the Ethernet is used as the communications backhaul, the CCU installation site must
have Ethernet access. Also, be sure to use weatherproof cables in this type of installation.
Caution When using Ethernet as the communications backhaul, the CCU must be
identified as Ethernet-based when performing Initial Collector Setup (ICS). Failure
to do so prohibits the CCU from communicating with the Network Collection
Engine.
CCU 100 and Repeater 100 Installation Guide 9
Chapter 2 Planning a CCU/Repeater Installation
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Remote 900 MHz Antenna Placement
Antenna placement is one of the most important factors in determining your overall
system performance. Careful consideration must be given to proper antenna placement.
Follow the general guidelines below when determining the ideal location for a remotemounted 900 MHz antenna.
• The antenna must be mounted vertically.
• The antenna needs to be mounted in a location where it has a clear unobstructed 360
degree view of the horizon. The antenna receives and transmits in all directions. Any
objects such as building walls, nearby metal surfaces or other obstructions will
interfere with the proper operation of the antenna. Mounting on a rooftop, where
nearby buildings are higher than the installation location, is not an ideal location for
the antenna.
• Do not mount the antenna near existing RF radiating antennas. If existing RF
radiators are nearby, the horizontal separation distance to the radiator must be a
minimum of 100 feet and/or 10 feet of vertical separation. In instances where nearby
RF radiators are present, conduct an intermodulation interference study to evaluate
the potential for interference and any effects it may have on system performance.
Consult with your Itron systems engineer for more information.
• Height is preferred for optimal performance. Mount the antenna as high as possible,
but Itron recommends that you install the antenna no higher than 100 feet. If the
antenna is going to be more than 100 feet above the CCU, Itron recommends using a
Tower CCU 100.
A side arm antenna installation must be done if the 900 MHz antenna is mounted where it
does not have an unobstructed 360-degree view. Refer to the following guidelines for a
side arm antenna installation.
• For the 900 MHz antenna, the minimum standoff distance is 24 inches, where the
interfering structural members are four inches or less in diameter and spaced more
than eight feet apart.
• For structural members between 4 and 10 inches in diameter, a sliding scale of 2 to 5
feet is to be used. (For example, a 24 inch standoff at 4 inch diameter to a 60 inch
standoff at 10 inch member diameter.)
Provide Itron with any conditions that may impact the CCU/Repeater's performance.
10 CCU 100 and Repeater 100 Installation Guide
Siting CCUs/Repeaters
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Grounding the Antenna System
To minimize the potential for a lightning event, it is essential that remote/external anten na
systems be properly grounded. Proper grounding prevents the accumulation of static
charges on the antenna system and also provides a direct discharge to ground for any
acquired charges.
All grounding materials and procedures must meet or exceed local codes. Use coaxial
grounding kits recommended by the coaxial cable manufacturer.
Warning Under no circumstances should the antenna grounding wires be run
inside a building. Always install ground bar s and grou n din g m ater ial on the
exterior of buildings.
The recommended procedure for grounding an antenna system is as follows:
• Mount a copper ground bar near the antenna. This is the top ground bar.
• Mount a second copper ground bar near the CCU/Repeater. This is the bottom ground
bar.
• Connect the two ground bars with a #6 gauge green jacketed stranded wire or a #2
solid copper wire.
• Ground the antenna mount and the top coaxial ground kit to the top ground bar.
• Ground the bottom coaxial ground kit and the lightning arrestor to the bottom ground
bar.
• Connect the bottom ground bar to one or more earth ground rods.
• All ground wires should be connected straight to ground, with no right angle turns or
sharp bends in the wires.
• Install ground leads on coaxial grounding kits without loops or bends and install
grounding kits in the proper orientation per the manufacturer's specifications.
CCU 100 and Repeater 100 Installation Guide 11
Chapter 2 Planning a CCU/Repeater Installation
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Lightning Arrestor
A lightning arrestor (or surge protector) capable of withstanding multiple lightning strikes
should be installed when using a remote/external antenna. This helps protect the
CCU/Repea ter in the event of a lightning strike.
The lightning arrestor is fitted to the coaxial antenna cable at the SURGE end and the RF
jumper cable that connects to the CCU/Repeater module at the PROTECTED end. It
includes a bulkhead connector interface that mounts to a ground plate with a washer and
nut. The arrestor is also furnished with a ground lug, if your installation does not have
provisions for a ground plate. The ground lug on the arrestor is designed for #2AWG
solid or stranded wire. The ground wire must be crimped to this lug, never soldered.
Caution The lightning arrestor must be connected to an earth-ground.
The top and bottom ends of the coaxial cable attached to the tower should be electrically
grounded with kits for lightning protection. The antenna input connection cannot serve as
the top ground point. For cable lengths in excess of 200 feet, ground the vertical cable run
every 100 feet.
Note The installer must supply any mounting brackets and cable-management clips
to secure the coaxial cable to the tower or structure, when using a remote/external
antenna. Consult your cable manufacturer for specifications on proper clips and
grounding kits. Conduit clamps and tie wraps are not satisfactory methods for
securing coaxial cables.
For a remote 900 MHz installation with a high gain antenna, a lightning arrestor is
supplied by Itron in the CCU 100/Repeater 100 kit materials.
12 CCU 100 and Repeater 100 Installation Guide
AC Mains Power
Proprietary and Confidential
AC Mains Power
The AC mains wiring to the CCU/Repeater utilizes a three conductor cable. This cable
can be terminated with either a NEMA L5-15 (125V, 15A) or a NEMA L6-15 (250V,
15A) locking plug in order to meet local electrical codes. The CCU should be powered by
a dedicated 10A circuit. The CCU/Repeater should not be connected to a circuit protected
by a GFCI breaker. Power wiring on the Itron supplied power cable follows conventional
color coding for AC wiring: Green/Ground, White/Neutral, Black/Hot.
Warning The CCU/Repeater must be grounded by using either the ground wire
in the three conductor cable or the grounding lug on the bottom of the
CCU/Repeater. For installations that use the photocell adapter the grounding
lug must be used to ground the CCU.
DC Mains Power
The DC wiring to the CCU/Repeater utilizes a two conductor cable. The CCU should be
connected to a 10A DC circuit breaker or fuse. Wiring of the Itron supplied two conductor
cable is accomplished by attaching the red wire to a +12V source and attaching the black
wire to ground.
Materials Not Provided by Itron
The following materials are not provided by Itron in the CCU/Repeater kit, but are
required for installation.
Please acquire these items prior to beginning an installation.
• Coaxial cable on page 13 (for remote/external antennas)
• Connectors on page 15
• Mounting hardware on page 15
Coaxial Cable
When mounting the remote/external antennas, coaxial cable must be supplied to connect
the antenna to the CCU/Repeater. The proper size of cable is dependent on total cable
length and frequency. Coaxial cable also requires proper hoisting grips, ground kits,
connectors, jumpers, hangers, and weather proofing material. Coaxial cable and
accessories are not provided by Itron. Coaxial cable systems must be installed according
to the manufacturer's specifications. Itron recommends using qualified radio installation
contractors to install the remote/external antenna system.
Remote Mount 900 MHz Antenna on a Standard CCU/Repeater
When selecting cable for the remote mount 900 MHz antenna on the standard (non-tower)
CCU/Repeater, total cable loss cannot exceed 1.5 dB to maintain system performance.
Allow 0.1 dB loss for each connector.
CCU 100 and Repeater 100 Installation Guide 13
Chapter 2 Planning a CCU/Repeater Installation
Proprietary and Confidential
Remote Mount High Gain (8.15 dBi) 900 MHz Antenna on a Tower
Total Coaxial length
only)
only)
CCU
The table below lists several options for coaxial cable that can be used with the remote
mount high gain 900 MHz antenna. when installing the high gain antenna on a Tower
CCU the FCC has set limits to the maximum transmit power of the CCU. In order to meet
these limits, Tower CCUs with FCC ID number EO9CCU100T must have a minimum of
2.2 dB worth of loss (but not more than 3.5 dB) between the tower cabinet and the
antenna. All other tower CCUs should be installed with minimum cable loss.
Allow 0.1 dB loss for each connector. If required, a 1 dB attenuator (similar to the
Pasternack PE7002-1) may be used to attain the desired power at the antenna.
Coax specification 0-120 ft. 121-200 ft. (high-
gain antenna
Standard black jacket cable AVA5-50 AVA6-50 AVA7-50
Optional fire retardant cable AVA5RK-50 AVA6RK-50 AVA7RK-50
Cable diameter (nominal ) 7/8 in. 1-1/4 in. 1-5/8 in.
Cable weight (lb./ft.) 0.33 0.46 0.70
Minimum ben d radius 10 in. 8 in. 15 in.
Cable attenuation @ 915 MHz ~ 1.2 dB/100 f t. ~ 0.84 dB/100 f t. ~0.70 dB/100 ft.
201-250 ft. (highgain antenna
External GPS and WAN Antennas
The primary requirement for any coaxial cable used with the external GPS or WAN
antenna is to have less than 5 dB of attenuation at 1.5 to 1.8 GHz for the entire length of
cable, including connector losses.
You may use any type of 50 ohm coaxial cable, as long as the total loss, including
connectors is less than 5 dB at 1.5 to 1.8 GHz.
If you are using coaxial cable larger (or stiffer) than 1/2 inch superflex, add a short (less
than 5 feet) piece of LMR 400 cable to each end before connecting the cable to the CCU
and the antennas. Use the appropriate connectors between the LMR 400 and larger
coaxial cable.
If the antennas are mounted in an exposed outdoor environment, you must provide
lightning protection and proper grounding. For more information on lightning protection
and grounding, see Lightning Arrestor on page 12, Grounding the Remote/External
Antenna Systems on page 11 and the Motorola R-56 guidelines.
14 CCU 100 and Repeater 100 Insta llat ion Gu ide
Materials Not Provided by Itron
Proprietary and Confidential
Profile
Mounting surface
Suggested hardware/sizing
Antenna Sweep Test
After remote antenna installation perform an antenna system sweep test and verify that
VSWR (voltage standing wave ratio) does not exceed 1.5:1. For more information, see
Perform an Antenna Sweep Test on page 64.
Caution All coaxial cable used to connect an antenna to the CCU/Repeater must be
properly grounded at the top and bottom of the coaxial line. Additionally, any cable
lengths of 200 feet or greater must be grounded each 100 feet. See Lightning
Arrestor on page 12 for more information.
Antenna Connectors
Connectors for the 900 MHz and WAN antenna cables need to be male Type N
connectors and must be sized according to the type of coaxial cable used. The GPS cable
requires TNC male and SMA male connectors. These connectors are available from a
variety of manufacturers.
Important All coaxial cable connections must be properly weather-proofed per
industry standards unless otherwise specified. If the CCU/Repeater is installed
indoors, only the connections located outside need to be weather-proofed.
Mounting Hardware
Depending on your installation location and configuration, the following mounting
hardware must be supplied by the installer to properly attach the CCU/Repeater to the
mounting surface.
Caution Since each installation is unique, you must ensure that the mounting
hardware you supply can securely support the CCU/Repeater. The CCU/Repeater
(minus attachment hardware) weighs 7 pounds. Itron recommends consulting with a
qualified engineer to verify load requirements and safety issues. Also, be sure to
check and comply with local codes when installing the CCU/Repeater.
Utility pole Wood or steel pole High-strength stainless steel straps
Light pole Steel light pole High-strength stainless steel straps
Outdoor w all or pole w ith
remote 900 MHz antenna
Indoor wall or pole with
remote 900 MHz antenna
and external GPS/WAN
antennas
Pipe 2.5 inch to 3.5 inch galvanized
Concrete, w ood, or s teel wall 1/4 inch-20 lag s crew s or 1/4 in ch-20 mol ly bolt s
Wood or steel pole High-strength stainless steel straps
Concrete, wood, sheetrock, or
steel wall
Wood or steel pole High-strength stainless steel straps
steel pipe
1/4 inch-20 lag screw s or 1/4 i nch-20 m olly bol ts
Two pipe m ount bracke ts for pipes up to 3. 5 inches in
diameter, su pplied by Itron (part n umbe r FAB-0192001, two brack ets are required for each
CCU/Repeater).
CCU 100 and Repeater 100 Installation Guide 15
Chapter 2 Planning a CCU/Repeater Installation
16 CCU 100 and Repeater 100 Installation Guide
Proprietary and Confidential
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