Meteorcomm 54506001 01 Users Manual

EXHIBIT VIII

OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE

OF THE

MCC-545B

PACKET DATA RADIO

OP ERATION AND MA IN TENANCE

OF THE

MCC-545B PACKET DATA RADIO

MAN-OM-545B

December 2000

Meteor Communications Corporation

8631 So.212th St..

Kent, WA 98031

Tel: [phone]

Fax: [phone]

E-mail: [e-mail]

2000 by Meteor Communications Corporation

all rights reserved

This page MUST be inserted for any copy of this manual going to the United Kingdom.

WARNING WARNING WARNING

Certain power transistors used in this equipment and their associated heatsink components are
manufactured partly or wholly from a beryllium compound. Normally these can be handled
without risk of toxicity, but there is a toxic hazard if dust or finely-divided particles of the
material are inhaled or enter the body through a cut. Consequently, great care must be taken, and
hands must be washed after handling.

Any cuts or abrasions on the hands must be covered by dressings while such components are
being handled. If beryllium dust does enter the skin through a cut or abrasion, the affected part
must be washed thoroughly and treated by a doctor.

Components containing beryllium may only be machined, cut, abraded, or heated above 400 C
under strictly controlled conditions approved by the appropriate Safety Authority.

Disposal of Beryllium

Disposal of faulty components must be carried out according to special arrangements. Should a
component containing Beryllium be broken, its parts and particles must be gathered carefully
using a moistened tissue (preferably while wearing plastic or rubber gloves), placed in a plastic
bag together with any contaminated materials, sealed, labeled, and disposed of in a manner
approved of by the Safety Authority.

Beryllium Components in MCC-545B RF Power Components

RF power components in the modules listed below incorporate some Beryllium within the
transistor package and must be handled as specified in the above warning notice.

TRANSISTOR CIRCUIT MODULE MANUFACTURER REFERENCE

545B 100W Transmitter (54505302-01) Advanced Semi Corp

Motorola

Q1,Q4
Q2

GENERAL WARRANTY

Meteor Communications Corporation (MCC)

published specifications and are free from manufacturing and material defects for one year after
shipment. Warranty-covered equipment that fails during the warranty period will be promptly
repaired at MCC’s facility in Kent, Washington.

International customers shall pay shipping costs to the MCC facility, with Seattle as the point of
U.S. entry. MCC shall pay incoming U.S. duty fees. MCC shall pay for shipping costs to return
the equipment to the customer, with the customer paying any and all return duty fees.

This warranty is contingent upon proper use of the equipment and does not cover equipment that
has been modified in any way without MCC’s approval or has been subjected to unusual
physical or electrical stress, or on which the original identification marks have been removed or
altered.

warrants that its products conform to the

REVISION PAGE

Document Title MCC-545B INSTALLATION AND OPERATIONS Manual

Document Number:

Revision # Date Revision

Redline 11/10/2000 Redline Release

12/11/2000 Initial Release
A
B
C
D
E

F
G
H

I

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Title Page

1.0 INTRODUCTION

1.1 Presentation...................................................................................................... 1-1

1.2 Support Documents.......................................................................................... 1-2

1.3 Conventions...................................................................................................... 1-2

2.0 DESCRIPTION

2.1 General Description............................................................................................. 2-1

2.2 Send and Receive Messages................................................................................ 2-1

2.3 Data Logging....................................................................................................... 2-1

2.4 Position Location................................................................................................. 2-2

2.5 Maintenance Features.......................................................................................... 2-3

2.6 Hardware Organization and Layout.................................................................... 2-3

2.6.1 MCC-545B Transceiver Assembly......................................................... 2-4

2.6.2 MCC-545B Power Amplifier.................................................................. 2-7

2.6.3 MCC-545B Microprocessor.................................................................... 2-7

3.0 INSTALLATION

3.1 Site Selection...................................................................................................... 3-1

3.1.1 External Noise/Interference .................................................................... 3-1

3.1.2 Horizon Angle......................................................................................... 3-3

3.1.3 Power Source........................................................................................... 3-3

3.1.4 Site Dimensions....................................................................................... 3-3

3.1.5 Antenna Considerations.......................................................................... 3-3

3.2 Equipment Installation........................................................................................ 3-5

3.2.1 Antenna Installation................................................................................ 3-5

3.2.2 Cable Connections................................................................................... 3-5

3.2.2.1 DC Power................................................................................... 3-8

3.2.2.2 Antenna...................................................................................... 3-8

3.2.2.3 Ground Wire............................................................................... 3-8

3.2.2.4 Operator Port.............................................................................. 3-8

3.2.2.5 Data Port.................................................................................... 3-8

3.2.2.6 Auxiliary (AUX) Port ................................................................ 3-8

3.3 Power-Up Se quence ............................................................................................ 3-9

3.3.1 Internal Battery........................................................................................ 3-9

3.3.2 Power On................................................................................................. 3-9

3.3.3 Set Unit ID............................................................................................... 3-11

3.3.4 Set and VerifyTx/Rx Frequencies........................................................... 3-11

3.3.5 Perform RF Test...................................................................................... 3-12

....................................................................................................... 2-1

................................................................................................... 1-1

.................................................................................................... 3-1

4.0 OPERATIONS

4.1 Getting Sta rted..................................................................................................... 4-1

4.1.1 Command Entry and Editing................................................................... 4-1

4.1.2 Unit Name and Station ID....................................................................... 4-2

...................................................................................................... 4-1

Title Page

4.1.3 HELP Command .................................................................................... 4-2

4.1.4 System Time and Date ............................................................................ 4-2

4.2 Station Operational Parameters........................................................................... 4-3

4.2.1 Configuring the 545B.............................................................................. 4-3

4.2.2 Selecting 545B Remote/Master Operation.............................................. 4-5

4.2.3 Selecting Network Parameters................................................................ 4-5

4.2.4 Selecting the Burst Monitor .................................................................... 4-7

4.2.5 Controlling the Hourly Statistics Report................................................. 4-8

4.2.6 Scheduling 545B Events ......................................................................... 4-8

4.2.7 Setting Timeout Durations ...................................................................... 4-9

4.2.8 Setting Frequencies ................................................................................. 4-9

4.2.9 Defining Data Relays.............................................................................. 4-10

4.2.10 Scaling A/D Readings............................................................................. 4-11

4.3 Sending and Receiving Messages....................................................................... 4-12

4.3.1 Entering and Deleting Messages............................................................. 4-12

4.3.2 Sending Commands to Remote Stations................................................. 4-14

4.3.3 Editing Messages..................................................................................... 4-14

4.3.4 Transmitting Messages............................................................................ 4-15

4.3.5 Receiving Messages............................................................................... 4-16

4.3.6 Examining/Revising Messages Queues................................................... 4-16

4.3.7 Examining Messa ge Statistics................................................................. 4-18

4.3.8 Entering Canned Messages...................................................................... 4-18

4.3.9 Printing Canned Messages ...................................................................... 4-19

4.4 Data Loggers....................................................................................................... 4-19

4.5 Reporting Position Location................................................................................ 4-19

4.6 Master Simulator Mode....................................................................................... 4-20

4.7 Examining Stat ion Statistics ................................................................................ 4-22

4.8 Configuring an RF Network................................................................................ 4-23

4.8.1 Types of Networks .................................................................................. 4-23

4.8.1.1 Meteor Burst Networks............................................................ 4-24

4.8.1.1.1 Full Duplex Network.............................................. 4-25

4.8.1.1.2 Half Duplex Network............................................. 4-26

4.8.1.1.3 Master Probe/Transpond Role................................ 4-26

4.8.1.1.4 Master Active/Passive Role.................................... 4-26

4.8.1.2 Line-of-Sight Networks............................................................ 4-27

4.8.1.2.1 Multi-Master Mode ................................................ 4-27

4.8.1.2.2 Base/Repeater Mode .............................................. 4-28

4.8.2 Remote to Master Assignment................................................................ 4-30

4.8.2.1 Fixed Master Selection............................................................. 4-30

4.8.2.2 Preferred Master Selection....................................................... 4-30

4.8.2.3 Automatic Master Selection..................................................... 4-32

4.8.3 Destination Considerations...................................................................... 4-32

4.8.4 Source and Group Routing...................................................................... 4-33

4.8.5 Network Parameters................................................................................ 4-34

Title Page

4.9 Command Reference List.................................................................................... 4-37

APPENDIX A

Command Printouts
Unsolicited Printouts

APPENDIX B

Data Logger Interface

APPENDIX C

GPS Interface

APPENDIX D

Application Note: MCC-545B PACKET DATA RADIO Warning Software

APPENDIX E

Application Note: CR10X Data Logger

APPENDIX F

Event Programming

LIST OF FIGURES

Figure Page

2.1 MCC-545B Photograph............................................................................................. 2-2

2.2 MCC-545B Block Diagram....................................................................................... 2-5

2.3 MCC-545B Outline Drawing.................................................................................... 2-6

3.1 Remote Station antenna Height for Meteor Burst..................................................... 3-4

LIST OF TABLES

Table Page

2.1 MCC-545B General Specifications........................................................................... 2-8

2.2 MCC-545B Receiver Specifications......................................................................... 2-8

2.3 MCC-545B Transmitter Specifications..................................................................... 2-9

2.4 MCC-545B Multiprocessor Specifications............................................................... 2-9

3.1 MCC-545B Interface Connections............................................................................ 3-6

4.1 MCC-545B Sca ling Factors...................................................................................... 4-11

4.2 MCC-545B Commands............................................................................................. 4-40

INTRODUCTION 1-1

1.0 INTRODUCTION

The MCC-545B PACKET DATA RADIO is part of a Meteor Burst Communications System
(MBCS) that allows short and long range communications between any two Stations in the
system. The system offers continuous radio signal propagation via ground wave and meteor
burst. Ground wave covers short distances, up to 100 km (60 miles). Meteor burst covers longer
distances, up to 1,600 km (1,000 miles), reflecting signals off ionized electron trails created by
meteors entering the atmosphere at a height of about 100 km (60 miles) above the earth's surface.
These trails, called bursts, are random but predictable in number and last from a few
milliseconds to several seconds. During this time, information can be exchanged between two
Stations. The height of the trails (60 miles) gives the system its 1,000 mile range.

1.1 Presentation

This manual is divided into five major sections:

Section 2. DESCRIPTION

Discusses specifications of each module included in the 545B.

Section 3: INSTALLATION

Presents a brief outline of installation procedures for the 545B. Includes
considerations for set-up and cabling, as well as power-up procedures.

Section 4: OPERATION

Outlines operating procedures for hardware and software.

Appendix A contains printouts of 545B commands and command responses.

Appendix B contains for interfacing the Pharos Marine Data Acquisition Unit.

Appendix C contains a list of GPS units supported and instructions for interfacing each unit to
the 545B.

Appendix D contains information on configuring the 545B for use in a Flood Warning System.

Appendix E contains information on interfacing to the Campbell Scientific CR10X Data Logger.

Appendix F contains information on the event and I/O programming capability of the 545B.

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INTRODUCTION 1-2

1.2 Support Documents

Customer Specific System Manual
MCC-520B/MCC-520C Operations Manual

1.3 Conventions

The following conventions are used in this manual:

Any system-dependent options are indicated with an "*".

When presented in the text, user commands and computer printout are boldfaced; e.g., Enter

DELETE.

parameters are enclosed in brackets; e.g.,

Names of terminal keys are capitalized and enclosed in square brackets when mentioned in the
text; e.g., Press [ESC].

Command parameters are presented in lower case; e.g.,

TIME

{,hh:mm:ss}

DEFINE

,id. Optional

Names of hardware switches, meters, etc. are capitalized; e.g., PWR ON switch.

NOTE

Used for special emphasis of material

IMPORTANT

Used for added emphasis of material.

CAUTION

Signals the operator to proceed carefully.

WARNING! WARNING! WARNING!

Used in cases where failure to heed the message may result in personal injury or equipment
damage.

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DESCRIPTION 2-1

2.0 DESCRIPTION

2.1 General Description

The MCC-545B Packet Data Radio provides versatile communications from fixed or mobile
sites. The 545B can be used for sending and receiving messages, position reporting, data logging,
or other specific applications. Designed to operate over a fading groundwave and an intermittent
meteor burst communications channel, the unit's low standby-power consumption (<1 watt)
makes it ideal for remote locations or mobile operation.

The 545B features rugged construction in a weather-resistant enclosure that measures 10.6 " x

4.0" x 2.42" and weighs less than 3.5 pounds.

A photograph of the 545B is given in Figure 2.1.

The unit operates in a half-duplex mode and contains a solid state Tx/Rx switch that allows a
common antenna to be shared for both transmit and receive. It can be operated with a single
frequency or on two separate frequencies.

The unit utilizes three phase locked frequency synthesizers to set the Tx and Rx frequencies.
The operator can set the frequency to any authorized frequency (10KHz steps) within a 2 MHz
band. A factory-trained technician is required to retune the transmitter and synthesizer if
operation outside a 2 MHz band is desired. The unit can be factory tuned across the full 37 to 50
MHz band

2.2 Send and Receive Messages

The 545B provides full text message capability. With a portable operating terminal, or a PC
running terminal emulation software, you can exchange messages with any other Remote Station
in the network.

Messages may be plain text or binary data. They can be routed to single or multiple destinations
or, to a Host Computer or Data Center.

2.3 Data Logging

The 545B can be programmed to acquire, store, and transmit data from the various I/O signals
noted below. Any analog or digital input can be used to trigger a transmission or to set a discrete
output level. Output levels can also be set hi or low via a command received from a distant unit.

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DESCRIPTION 2-2

I/O CAPABILITY OF MCC 545B

NAME RANGE QUANTITY

Analog Inputs 0 to +5V 6
Digital Inputs Optical isolated 4
Digital Outputs RS232 (+/- 10V) 2
Digital Outputs 0 to +5V ( 10 ma) 3
Digital Inputs 0 to + 5V or +/-10V 2
Relay Outputs Form C 2 amp rating 2

MCC-545B PHOTOGRAPH

FIGURE 2.1

Refer to Appendix E for detailed operation and control of the I/O capability of the MCC 545B.

The MCC can also be connected via an RS 232 port to a variety of Data Loggers such as the
Campbell Scientific CR10X or CR23. Data from these loggers can be collected, stored, and
transmitted to a distant unit. Refer to Appendix B and E for a description of data logger
interface.

2.4 Position Location

The 545B delivers location data from either a built 12 channel GPS (optional) or from an
external GPS with NEMA 0183 format, positioning equipment used in mobile units on land, in
the air, and at sea. The 545B sends the position location to a Master or Base Station, which
forwards the information to a Data Center or Host Computer for processing. This data can be

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DESCRIPTION 2-3

used in dispatch centers, corporate/district offices, and other monitoring Stations for updating
map displays or additional functions. Refer to Appendix B for a description of the GPS
commands.

2.5 Maintenance Features

An operator terminal or a remote command from a distant unit can also be used to read and
display the 545B's status such as radio propagation channel statistics, battery voltage during
transmission (loaded), battery voltage when not transmitting (unloaded), RF forward and
reflected power (checks antenna), and receiver noise levels. It can also be used to display and
configure the 545B's operating characteristics, as detailed in Chapter 4.

An internal Li ion battery is used to maintain the internal real time clock and battery backed
RAM. This battery is capable of operating the clock in a power down state for a period of
approximately 6 months. This battery should be removed if the unit is stored without power for
extended periods of time.

2.6 Hardware Organization and Layout

The unit contains five printed circuit assemblies:

A 100 watt all solid-state 2 stage power amplifier.

A 2 watt 2 stage preamplifier and power switch.

A BPSK 4 KB/sec transceiver containing a BPSK receiver, vector phase modulator (+13Dbm

output) and three frequency synthesizers.

A low-power microprocessor controller used to perform radio control and link and network

protocol functions. This assembly also contains a digital signal processor (DSP)and
digital to analog converter (DAC)for generating the in-phase (I) and quadrature-phase
(Q) base band signals required to generate the BPSK RF signal.

An 8 channel GPS receiver (optional)

The following paragraphs contain a brief description of each of the five main hardware elements
in the 545B. Figure 2.2 presents a block diagram for the 545B. Figure 2.3 presents an outline
drawing showing mounting holes, connectors, and dimensions.

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DESCRIPTION 2-4

2.6.1 MCC-545B Transceiver Assembly

The receiver assembly contains a complete 4K baud Bi Phase Shift Key (BPSK) receiver, a
transmit and receive frequency synthesizer module, and a 4K baud BPSK modulator.

BPSK Receiver

!

Input band pass filter (37-50 MHz)

!

RF amplifier (17 dB)

!

Low pass image filter (Fc=50 MHz)

!

Mixer

!

IF amplifiers and filters (10.7 MHz)

!

Noise blanker

!

Mixer, 2

!

Coherent Costas Carrier Tracking Loop

!

BPSK bit detector and clock generator

Synthesizer (1

!

Reference Oscillator (12.8 MHz +/- 2.5 PPM)

!

Tx phase lock loop ( 74-100 MHz output, 20 KHz steps)

!

A divide by 2 circuit (37-50 MHz output, 10 KHz steps)

!

Rx 1

!

Rx 2nd local oscillator phase lock loop (10.6 MHz)

!

PIC Microcontroller

nd

IF filter and amplifier (100 KHz), and RSSI circuit

st

and 2nd local oscillator and transmit oscillator)

st

local oscillator phase lock loop (47.7-60.7 MHz output, 10 KHz steps)

BPSK Modulator

1.

2.

I/Q Vector Phase Modulator (BPSK)
Pre amplifier (+13 DBM output)

All components are located on a 8.5”by 3.5” two sided printed circuit board. All components are
soldered in (surface mounted). As an option the board can be conformal-coated with an acrylic
encapsulate that contains a tropicalizing, anti-fungal agent to increase durability and provide
protection against moisture and contamination.

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DESCRIPTION 2-5

BPSK TRANSCEIVER

54506303-01

A1BPF1 BPF2

16 DB 16 DB

FREQ DEV = +/- 2400 HZ
GMSK MODULATION 0 DBM
DATA RATE = 9600 BAUD
BT = .5

RX INPUT

CO-AX

VR

COUPLER

FINAL POWER AMP 54505306-01

CO-AX

FC=50 MHZ 10.7 MHZ

VCOFr+10.7 MHZ

DC CTRL

DC CTRL

Ft

/2

COMPLEX

PHASE

MODULATOR

VF

DIR

FC = 60 MHZ

NOISE BLANKER

LOG

CERAMIC

CERAMIC

A1

CERAMICLO1

SWITCH

A1

ERA-5SM

SWITCH

FILTER

REF OSC

12.8/10.0 MHZ

TXKEY

100W

T/R

G=7DB G=13DB G=10DBG=10DB

VLB100-12 MRF 455

DUAL

PHASE LOCKED

LOOP

I II

Q

LPF

ONE

COMP

SHOT

FIRST IF 10.7 MHZ

CRYSTAL

A2 A2 A2

FILTER

16 DB

PHASE

LOCKED

LOOP

20W

2ND IF 14.2 MHZ

CRYSTAL BPSK BASEBAND

FILTER

DC CTRL

VCO

2W

LO2 114.9 MHZ

EMI

EMI

EMI

V_R

V_F

VCC2

AD607

IF AMP/DETECTOR

PIC CONTROL

NB ENABLE

2 ND IF TPFILTER AMP

LPFLBPF

4.2 MHZ

DET RF

MODULATOR OUT

POWER

CONTROL & SWITCH

.1W

VLB1-12

FRONT END PA & POWER CONTROL

CO-AX

.020W

VHB121-12T

+13 DBM

54505305-01

CONTROL

TO SYNTH

VCXO

CTL

LIMITED COSTAS

COSTAS

I&D DATA

PLL

LOCK

COMPARE

5.7VRX

5.7V

5.7VPR

SWITCH DSP

REGULATOR

+12 VOLT POWER

PROCESSOR

MICRO

4.192
MHZ

CONTROL

DET RF

RX ENABLE
SYNTH LOCKSYNTH LOCK

Q

OSC

RX DATA
RX CLK

RXLOCK
BRATE

SP

TX KEY
TXLIMITEMI

I/O7
TEMP

VF

+12VBATT

PIC

PCI BUS

Q

USARTFILTER

D/A
DUAL

PROCESSOR

I DATAVCC1

Q DATA

DET RF

TX CLK

F1/16

OPTION

QUADGATE
USART

1MEG X 16

IMEG (OPTIONAL)

DISCRETE
OUTPUTS

RELAY

OUTPUTS

INPUTSDATA+12BATT

ANALOG INPUTS (6)

10 BIT
11 CHVRVCC3

BRATE

GPS

4 OPER

2

FLASH

MEMORY

RAM

512K X 16

OPTO

A/D

9600 BAUD

19.6608 MHZ

COUNTER

F1

ANTENNA BNC

54505304-01

MAINRSSI

PROCESSOR

68332VCO TCXO

SYNC

TX DATA

PROCESSOR

PROCESSOR RUN (ON) LED (FLASH)

TX POWER OK = AMBER LED VSWR = RED LED

RS 232

0

DATA

139-50 MHZ

AUX

(3)

(2)

(4)

CLK

12 V BATT

GPS
ANT

I/O

CONN
44 PIN

LED

LED

MCC 545B BLOCK DIAGRAM

FIGURE 2.2

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DESCRIPTION 2-6

MCC 545B OUTLINE DRAWING

FIGURE 2.3

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DESCRIPTION 2-7

2.6.2 MCC-545B Power Amplifier

The power amplifier assembly contains two printed circuit boards. One board, the 100 watt
power amplifier, is mounted inside an aluminum enclosure to provide RF shielding between the
low level phase lock loop synthesizers and the high power output. This board contains a T/R
switch for half-duplex operation, a harmonic low pass filter, and a dual directional coupler for
power level control.

The second board contains two low level amplifiers which amplify the 20 milliwatt input signal
from the modulator to a two watt level required by the final power amplifier stage.

All transmitter components are located on a two 4.0" x 3.5’’ printed circuit boards. All
components are soldered in place. As an option the boards can be conformal-coated with an
acrylic encapsulate that contains a tropicalizing, anti-fungal agent to increase durability and
provide protection against moisture and contamination.

Both printed circuit boards are mounted to an aluminum heat sink assembly.

2.6.3 MCC-545B Microprocessor

The microprocessor is a Motorola-based, embedded computer housed on a single PCB that
contains:

! 512K x 16 of non-volatile flash memory for program storage
! Additional 512K x 16 of non-volatile flash memory for parameter storage
! 1024K x 8 of static RAM for data storage (optionally 2048K x 8)
! External RS-232 I/O ports (3)
! Internal TTL GPS port
! Transmitter communication port
! Receiver communication port
! 10-bit 11 channel A/D converter (6 channels available for external sensors)
! Real-time clock
! Power fail detection circuitry
! Digital Signal Processor with D/A converters
! Optically iso lated digital input s (6)
! Form C Relay Outputs (2) with current rating of 2 amps.

All I/O ports are RS 232 compatible and can be programmed to adapt to various customer
protocols. The DATA port contains full flow control hardware lines.

The A/D converter measures TX forward and reverse power, battery voltage, antenna noise
voltage, transmitter board temperature, and 6 channels of 0-5V external sensor inputs.

All processor components are located on a 198mm x 95mm (7.8” x 3.75”). All components are
soldered in place using the latest in surface mount technologies. As an option the board can be

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DESCRIPTION 2-8

conformal-coated with an acrylic encapsulate that contains a tropicalizing, anti-fungal agent to
increase durability and provide increased protection against moisture and contamination.

Specifications for the unit and the individual circuit boards are given in Tables 2.1 through 2.4.

MCC-545B GENERAL SPECIFICATIONS

CHARACTERISTIC SPECIFICATION

Dimensions 10.6”L X 4.0”W X 2.42”H
Weight 2.7 kg (3 lbs.)
Temperature Range

-30° to 60° C (-22° to 140° F)

Power Requirements Standby: 100 ma (Continuous)

Transmit: 25 Amps Nominal (100 msec)
12 VDC Nominal (10-14 VDC)

TABLE 2.1

MCC-545B RECEIVER SPECIFICATIONS

CHARACTERISTIC SPECIFICATION

Frequency 37-50 MHz .0005% Synthesized 10KHz

steps

Modulation

Type
Rate
Format

BPSK
4 KBPS

NRZ
Noise Figure < 7 dB minimum
Sensitivity

Bit Error Rate < 10

-3

at 4 kbps -120 dBm
IF Bandwidth (3/80 dB) 13/40 KHz typical
RF Bandwidth (3 dB) 13 MHz typical
Signal Acquisition Time < 5 msec
3rd Order Intercept Point >- 4 dBm
Image Response Attenuation > 70 dB minimum
Spurious Response Attenuation > 70 dB minimum
SP Threshold Adj. From –115 to –106 dBm

Triggered by DET RF and Demodulator Lock
Noise Blanker > 20 dB Reduction in Impulse Noise
I/O MCC St anda rd

TABLE 2.2

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DESCRIPTION 2-9

MCC-545B TRANSMITTER SPECIFICATIONS

CHARACTERISTIC SPECIFICATION

Frequency 36-50 MHz .0005% Synthesized 10KHz

steps
RF Power Output > 100 Watts at 12 VDC Input
Load VSWR < 2:1 for Rated Power
Harmonic Levels 70 dB below Unmodulated Carrier
Modulation

Type
Rate

Format
Spurious > 70 dB below Unmodulated Carrier
Transmit Modulation Spectrum 10 KHz offset – 40 dB

Tx Duty Cycle 16% Max without shutting down

T/R Swit c h Soli d -State

I/O MCC St anda rd
Protection

High VSWR Withstands Infinite VSWR

BPSK
4 KBPS
NRZ

25 KHz offset – 70 dB

20% shuts down transmitter

Switching Time < 100 micro sec

TABLE 2.3

MCC-545B MULTIPROCESSOR SPECIFICATIONS

CHARACTERISTIC SPECIFICATION

Main Processor Motorola MC68332FC 32-bit Embedded

Controller

Memory: Program Stora ge

Data Storage

Parameter Storage

Switches: S1 Momentary System Reset

Jumper: JP2

JP3

JP4

Memory: Program Storage

TABLE 2.4

512K x 16 non-volatile Flash memory
1024K x 8 static RAM (optional 2048K x 8)
512K x 16 non-volatile Flash memory

Modulation Select (In for BPSK)
(Out for BPSK)
DSP Clock Select (pins 1-2)
Mod Filter Select (In for BT=.5)
(Out for BT=1.0)

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INSTALLATION 3-1

3.0 INSTALLATION

This section provides general information on site selection and installation of the 545B, as well
as 545B power-up procedures.

3.1 Site Se lection

One of the most important considerations in the proper operation of the MBCS is the selection of
the 545B-operating site. There are a number of factors, which influence selection:

1. External Noise/Interference

2. Horizon angle

3. DC power source

4. Site dimensions

5. Antenna considerations

3.1.1 External Noise/Interference

Noise and signal interference can reduce the performance of the 545B. There are several sources
of interference; following are the most common sources:

! Cosmic Noise
! Power Line Noise
! Auto Ignition Noise
! Computer-Generated Interference
! External Signal Interference

Cosmic Noise

Cosmic noise is the limiting noise factor in a meteor burst system, especially in the low
frequency band (40-50 MHz). The noise is generated by star systems in the galaxy and is
frequency dependent. The noise is approximately 15 dB above thermal at 40 MHz, and 13 dB
above thermal at 50 MHz. The noise is also diurnal in nature, being the highest when the
antennas are pointed directly at the center of the galaxy and lowest when they are pointed at right
angles to it. Daily variations of 3 to 4 dB are to be expected. An optimal meteor burst site is one
that is limited only by cosmic noise.

The 545B STAT command is very useful in determining the site antenna noise levels. Since the
Receiver has an IF bandwidth of 13 KHz, the STAT reading should read from –120 to –115
dBM if the Receiver to antenna line loss is about 1 to 2 dB (100-200 ft of RG-214). The noise
blanker is not effective for cosmic noise, so the noise readings are the same whether the blanker
is on or off.

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INSTALLATION 3-2

Power Line Noise

One of the main sources of external noise are the high voltage power lines common throughout
the country. Noise on these lines is generated by high voltage breakdown occurring on power
line hardware such as transformers, insulators, etc. This noise shows up at the Receiver IF test
point (using a scope) as a series of spikes that occur every 8 ms (1/60 Hz) or every 10 ms (1/50
Hz). The level of the spikes will be much higher than the normal background noise floor. The
number of spikes can vary, depending upon the level of interference, from one or two every 8-10
ms to several dozen every 8-10 ms. The impulse noise blanker can remove a large amount of this
noise. However, as the number of spikes increases, the effectiveness of the blanker is reduced.
When setting up a site always look at the IF test point with a scope to determine the level of the
power line noise interference. It is mandatory that power line noise be avoided. Try to set up Rx
antennas well away from power lines and try not to point the antennas directly toward nearby
power lines.

NOTE.

Local power companies should maintain power lines to reduce noise. Call your local utility in
case of severe noise.

Auto Ignition Noise

Auto ignition noise is generated by any gasoline engine and is a result of the high voltage
required to fire the spark plugs in automobiles. A basic characteristic of auto ignition noise is
that it is similar to power line noise (i.e., this type of noise generates a DET RF spike visible with
an oscilloscope), but it does not have the 8-10 ms period which is associated with power line
noise. If the unit is operated on a vehicle, care must be taken to ensure that the vehicle ignition
system, any DC motors, and any other source of electrical noise are isolated through shielding,
ferrite beads, and-or bypass capacitors.

Computer-Generated Interference

All computers and printers contain high-speed logic circuits which generate spurious signals
throughout the 37-50 MHz band. If one of these signals occurs at the receive frequency,
interference results when the spurious computer signal is picked up by the receive antenna. To
avoid this type of interference keep the antenna away from buildings that contain computers.
Separating the antennas from the computers by 100 to 300 feet generally prevents this
interference. The noise blanker does not suppress computer-generated interference.

Signal Interference

This type of interference occurs whenever the unit is set up in an area where another transmitter
is operating on the desired receiver center frequency. Antenna nulling and spatial separation can
be used to reduce this type on interference.

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INSTALLATION 3-3

3.1.2 Horizon Angle

The second consideration in site selection is the horizon angle in the direction of the Master
Station. To achieve optimum performance at ranges of up to 1600 km (1000 miles), the horizon
or look angle must be free from obstructions, buildings, bridges, etc., and must be within 2 or 3
degrees of horizontal. Trees and other shrubbery do not present a problem if they are not within

6.1 m (20 ft) of any element of the antenna. At shorter ranges the horizon angle can be higher.

3.1.3 Power Source

The 545B requires a 12 VDC power source. An automobile battery provides an excellent power
source. Care must be taken to ensure that proper wiring is used to support the 545B high in-rush
current during transmission. Typical transmit current is 25 to 30 amps for a period of about .10
seconds. A #14 wire (or two #16 wires) should be used for both +12 VDC and ground. Keep the
wire length shorter than 10 feet. Remember that this is 20 feet counting the ground return. The
545B contains a 20 amp internal fuse and a special circuit that protects the unit from a power line
reversal. The fuse will have to be replaced if the power lines are reversed.

3.1.4 Site Dimensions

In order to obtain the maximum performance from a Meteor Burst Communications System, the
Station must be set up on level flat ground. The terrain in front of the antenna must be flat and be
free of buildings and other structures for a distance of at least 30 times the height of the antenna.
Operation in an area that does not have a ground plane to support ground reflection can reduce
meteor performance by a factor of two.

3.1.5 Antenna Considerations

The final consideration in setting up a site is selecting the antenna and co-ax cable. Any antenna
that provides a 50 ohm load will work. This impedance must be maintained at both Tx and Rx
frequency. In a single frequency system, a very narrow bandwidth antenna can be used. The
information bandwidth of the system is less than 15 KHz.

The higher the antenna gain the better the performance. Yagi antennas work better than dipoles
(2 to 4 times improvement). Always maintain the same polarization as the Master Station
antenna. For example, if you use a whip antenna with the 545B, the Master Station antenna must
be vertically polarized.

In a Meteor Burst System, the height of the antenna should be optimized as a function of the
distance between the Master Station and the Remote Station. A plot of best antenna height vs.
range is given in Figure 3.1-1 below.

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INSTALLATION 3-4

In a LOS or ELOS System, the higher the antenna the better. In general every time the height is
double the system gain is increased by approximately 6 dB.

Best Antenna Height

30

25

20

15

40 Mhz
45 Mhz
50 Mhz

10

Antenna Height (ft)

5

0

100

150

200

250

300

350

400

450

500

RANGE (mi)

REMOTE STATION ANTENNA HEIGHT FOR METEOR BURST

FIGURE 3.1-1

Antenna coax cable length must be kept as short as possible, to minimize line loss. Maintain a
line loss between antenna and 545 of less than 1 dB if possible. A table of cable loss (at 50 MHz)
for various types of co-ax is given below for reference.

CABLE Loss/100 feet dB Diam. Inches Weight/100 feet lbs.
RG 223, RG 58 3.0 .211 3.4
RG 214, RG 8 1.8 .425 12.6
RG 17 1.2 .870 20.1
LDF4A-50 ½ inch heliax .48 .500 15.0
LDF5A-50 7/8 inch heliax .26 .875 33.0

O&M of the MCC-545B PACKET DATA RADIO

12/2000

INSTALLATION 3-5

3.2 Equipment Installation

Although the 545B is housed in a metal enclosure, it is not waterproof. If your application
requires using the 545B outside of an environmentally controlled shelter or vehicle, you must
install the 545B inside a waterproof enclosure. A NEMA enclosure is generally used in outdoor

installations. The unit operates over a temperature range of -30°C to +60°C.

3.2.1 Antenna Installation

MCC buys all antennas from an antenna vendor. Each antenna is shipped with a set of assembly
instructions. Refer to these instructions for assembly details.

Antenna installation is entirely dependent on site conditions. You should always consult with
MCC's engineering department for help in the proper placement of antennas. Remember that
antenna placement can make the difference between a system that performs marginally and one
that performs well.

3.2.2 Cable Connections

The following is a general description of cable connections for the 545B. The 545B connection
data is shown in Table 3.1, along with general connection information.

To ensure proper operation, shielded cable must be used for all connections. All cabling must be
grounded at the 545B enclosure. All cables must have adequate strain relief and a weatherproof
seal provided at the entry point to the enclosure.

The 545B has one 44 pin I/O connector, that contains three RS232 port wires and one
digital/analog data I/O wires. MCC provides a standard cable harness that breaks out the 37 pin
connector to three 9 pin RS 232 connectors and one 25 pin I/O connector. A schematic for this
connector is given in Figure 3.2 . Table 3.1 describes the pin out of the four I/O connectors.

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INSTALLATION 3-6

CONNECTOR FUNCTION

Power Input power connector, attaches to battery.
Antenna BNC antenna connector.
Operator Port RS-232 port for connection of local operator terminal. D Connector

9S from 14001252 adapter cable.

Data Port RS-232 port for connection of data logger, GPS or other serial device.

D connector 9S from 14001252 adapter cable.

Auxiliary Port RS-232 port for connection of GPS unit (or other serial device). Also

supports MCC test equipment (pins 6, 8, 9). D Connector 9S from
14001252 adapter cable.

I/O Port Contains analog inputs, digital inputs and outputs, relay outputs, opto

coupled inputs, power, ADC reference voltage, and DET RF test
point. D connector 25S from 14001252 adapter cable.

GPS Antenna
(optional)

Pin Signal Pin Signal

OPERATOR PORT –9S DATA PORT – 9S AUX PORT – 9S

Pin Signal Pin Signal Pin Signal

1CD

(tied to pin 4 and 6)

2Tx Data

(from 545B)

3Rx Data

(to 545B)

4DTR

(tied to pin 1 and 6)
5 Ground 5 Ground 5 Ground
6DSR

(tied to pin 1 and 4)
7RTS

(tied to pin 8)

8CTS

(tied to pin 7)

9 Not Used 9 Ring Ind.

SMA connector

ANTENNA POWER

-- BNC Connector 1 +12V
2 +12V
3 Ground
4 Ground

1 Not Used 1 Not Used

2Tx Data

(from 545B)

3Rx Data

(to 545B)

4DTR

(to 545B)

6DSR

(from 545B)

7RTS

(to 545B)

8CTS

(from 545B)

(from 545B)

MCC-545B INTERFACE CONNECTIONS

TABLE 3.1 (1 of 2)

2Tx Data

(from 545B)

3Rx Data

(to 545B)

4 Not Used

6 Ant. Clock

(from 545B)

7 Not Used

8 Ant. Dir.

(from 545B)

9 Ant. Sel.

(from 545B)

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MCC-545B INTERFACE CONNECTIONS

I/O Connector pin FUNCTION

1 Optocoupled input #1 positive ( 500 ohm resistor)
2 Optocoupled input #1 return
3 Optocoupled input #2 positive ( 500 ohm resistor)
4 Optocoupled input #2 return

5 Optocoupled input #3 positive ( 500 ohm resistor)
6 Optocoupled input #3 return
7 Optocoupled input #4 positive ( 500 ohm resistor)
8 Optocoupled input #4 return

9 Ground
10 Relay Output #1 Normally Open (2Amp rating)
11 Relay Output #1 Common
12 Relay Output #1 Normally Closed (2Amp rating)
13 Relay Output #2 Normally Open (2Amp rating)
14 Relay Output #2 Common
15 Relay Output #2 Normally Closed (2Amp rating)
16 Ground
17 Analog Input #1 ( 0 to 5 V)
18 Analog Input #2 ( 0 to 5 V)
19 Analog Input #3 ( 0 to 5 V)
20 Analog Input #4 ( 0 to 5 V)
21 Analog Input #5 ( 0 to 5 V)
22 Analog Input #6 ( 0 to 5 V)
23 +5V Reference (10mA for sensor excitation)
24 +12V (0.5A maximum)
25 Detected RF Test Point

INSTALLATION 3-7

MCC-545B INTERFACE CONNECTIONS

TABLE 3.1 (2 of 2)

O&M of the MCC-545B PACKET DATA RADIO

12/2000