Microwave Data Systems MDS 1710 A, MDS 2710A, MDS 2710D, MDS 2710C, MDS 1710 C Operation Manual

Download

Microwave Data Systems Inc.

Rochester, NY 14620

General Business: +1 585 242-9600

FAX: +1 585 242-9620

Web: www.microwavedata.com

175 Science Parkway

A product of Microwave Data Systems Inc.

Installation & Operation Guide

MDS 05-3447A01, REV. F

SEPTEMBER 2004

Data Transceiver

Microwave Data Systems Inc.

MDS 1710 A/C

MDS 2710A/C/D

QUICK START GUIDE

Below are the basic steps for installing the transceiver. Detailed instructions are provided in “Installation

Steps” on Page 9 of this manual.

1. Install and connect the antenna system to the radio

• Use good quality, low loss coaxial cable. Keep the feedline as short as possible.

• Preset directional antennas in the direction of desired transmission/reception.

2. Connect the data equipment to the radio’s INTERFACE connector

• Connection to the radio must be made with a DB-25 Male connector. Connections for typical systems are shown below.

• Connect only the required pins. Do not use a straight-through RS-232 cable with all pins wired.

•Verify the data equipment is conﬁgured as DTE. (By default, the radio is conﬁgured as DCE.)

3. Apply DC power to the radio (10.5–16 Vdc @ 2.5 A minimum)

• Observe proper polarity. The red wire is the positive lead; the black is negative.

4. Set the radio’s basic conﬁguration with a Hand-Held Terminal (HHT)

• Set the transmit frequency (

TX xxx.xxxxx

• Set the receive frequency (

RX xxx.xxxxx

• Set/verify the data rate using the

BAUD

command. The default setting is

BAUD 4800 8N1

. (Refer to

“TRANSCEIVER PROGRAMMING” on Page 17 for command details.)

5. Verify proper operation by observing the LED display

• Refer to Tab le 5 on Page 16 for a description of the status LEDs.

•Reﬁne directional antenna headings for maximum receive signal strength using the

RSSI

com-

mand.

DB-25 DB-25

6DSR

DSR

TXD

RXD

GND

RTS

CTS

TXD

RXD

GND

CTS

RTS

DB-9 DB-25

DB-9 to DB-25 ExampleDB-25 to DB-25 Example

RXD

TXD

DCD

GND

DSR

RTS

RXD

TXD

DCD

GND

As required for application

CTS

DSR

RTS

CTS8

GND

8 8

DCD

As required for application

RTU

(DTE)

TRANSCEIVER

(DCE)

RTU

(DTE)

TRANSCEIVER

(DCE)

IN CASE OF DIFFICULTY...

MDS products are designed for long life and trouble-free operation. However, this equipment, as with all electronic equipment may have an occasional component failure. The following information will assist you in the event that servicing becomes necessary.

FACTORY TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE

Technical assistance for MDS products is available from our Customer Support Team during business hours (8:00 A.M.–5:30 P.M. Eastern Time). When calling, please give the complete model number of the radio, along with a description of the trouble symptom(s) that you are experiencing. In many cases, problems can be resolved over the telephone, without the need for returning the unit to the factory.

Please use one of the following means for product assistance:

Phone: 585-241-5510

E-mail: techsupport@microwavedata.com

Web: www.microwavedata.com

FAX: 585-242-8369

FACTORY REPAIRS

Component-level repair of radio equipment is not recommended in the field. Many compo-

nents are installed using surface mount technology, which requires specialized training and equipment for proper servicing. For this reason, the equipment should be returned to the factory for any PC board repairs. The factory is best equipped to diagnose, repair and align your radio to its proper operating specifications.

If return of the equipment is necessary, you will be issued a Service Return Order (SRO) number. The SRO number will help expedite the repair so that the equipment can be repaired and returned to you as quickly as possible. Please be sure to include the SRO number on

the outside of the shipping box, and on any correspondence relating to the repair. No

equipment will be accepted for repair without an SRO number.

A statement should accompany the radio describing, in detail, the trouble symptom(s), and a description of any associated equipment normally connected to the radio. It is also important to include the name and telephone number of a person in your organization who can be contacted if additional information is required.

The radio must be properly packed for return to the factory. The original shipping container and packaging materials should be used whenever possible. All factory returns should be addressed to:

When repairs have been completed, the equipment will be returned to you by the same shipping method used to send it to the factory. Please specify if you wish to make different shipping arrangements. To inquire about an inprocess repair, you may contact our Product Services Group at: 585-241-5540 (FAX: 585242-8400) or vie e-mail at: ProductServices@microwavedata.com.

Microwave Data Systems Inc. Product Service Department (SRO No. XXXX) 175 Science Parkway Rochester, NY 14620 USA

I-6 MDS 1710A/C and MDS2710A/C/D MDS 05-3447A01, Rev. F

NOTES

MDS 05-3447A01, Rev. F MDS 1710A/C and MDS 2710A/C/D i

TABLE OF CONTENTS

1.0 GENERAL.................................................................................... 1

1.1 Introduction ......................................................................................1

1.2 Differences Between Models ...........................................................2

1.3 Applications ...................................................................................... 2

Point-to-Multipoint, Multiple Address Systems (MAS) ....................2

Point-to-Point System..................................................................... 3

Continuously Keyed versus Switched Carrier Operation................ 4

Single Frequency (Simplex) Operation........................................... 4

1.4 Product Conﬁgurator Codes .............................................................4

1.5 Accessories ...................................................................................... 5

2.0 GLOSSARY OF TERMS.............................................................. 5

3.0 INSTALLATION ............................................................................ 8

3.1 Installation Steps .............................................................................. 9

3.2 Transceiver Mounting .....................................................................11

3.3 Antennas and Feedlines ................................................................11

Feedlines ......................................................................................12

3.4 Power Connection .......................................................................... 12

3.5 Data Interface Connections ............................................................13

3.6 Using the Radio’s Sleep Mode ....................................................... 13

Sleep Mode Example ...................................................................13

4.0 OPERATION.............................................................................. 15

4.1 LED Indicators ................................................................................16

4.2 RSSI Measurement ........................................................................ 16

5.0 TRANSCEIVER PROGRAMMING ............................................17

5.1 Hand-Held Terminal Connection & Startup ....................................17

5.2 Hand-Held Terminal Setup .............................................................18

5.3 Keyboard Commands .....................................................................19

Entering Commands..................................................................... 19

Error Messages ............................................................................19

5.4 Detailed Command Descriptions ...................................................22

AMASK [0000 0000–FFFF FFFF] ................................................22

ASENSE [HI/LO]........................................................................... 23

BAUD [xxxxx abc]......................................................................... 23

BUFF [ON, OFF]........................................................................... 23

CKEY [ON–OFF] ..........................................................................24

CTS [0–255] .................................................................................24

DATAKEY [ON, OFF] ....................................................................24

DEVICE [DCE, CTS KEY] ............................................................24

DKEY............................................................................................ 25

ii MDS 1710A/C and MDS 2710A/C/D MDS 05-3447A01, Rev. F

DLINK [ON/OFF/xxxx] ..................................................................25

DMGAP [xx].................................................................................. 25

DTYPE [NODE/ROOT]................................................................. 25

DUMP ...........................................................................................26

HREV............................................................................................ 26

INIT............................................................................................... 26

INIT [2710].................................................................................... 26

INIT [2720].................................................................................... 26

KEY ..............................................................................................27

MODEL......................................................................................... 27

MODEM [xxxx, NONE] .................................................................27

OWM [XXX...] ...............................................................................27

OWN [XXX...]................................................................................ 27

PTT [0–255].................................................................................. 27

PWR [20–37] ................................................................................27

RSSI .............................................................................................28

RTU [ON/OFF/0-80]......................................................................28

RX [xxx.xxxxx] ..............................................................................28

RXTOT [NONE, 1-255]................................................................. 28

SCD [0-255].................................................................................. 28

SER ..............................................................................................28

SHOW [DC, PORT, PWR].............................................................29

SNR ..............................................................................................29

SREV............................................................................................ 29

STAT ............................................................................................. 29

TEMP............................................................................................ 29

TOT [1-255, ON, OFF] ..................................................................30

TX [xxx.xxxxx]............................................................................... 30

UNIT [10000...65000] ...................................................................30

6.0 TROUBLESHOOTING............................................................... 30

6.1 LED Indicators ................................................................................31

6.2 Event Codes ...................................................................................31

Checking for Alarms—STAT command.........................................31

Major Alarms vs. Minor Alarms..................................................... 31

Event Code Deﬁnitions .................................................................32

7.0 TECHNICAL REFERENCE .......................................................33

7.1 Transceiver Speciﬁcations ..............................................................33

7.2 Performing Network-Wide Remote Diagnostics ............................. 34

7.3 Bench Testing Setup ......................................................................36

7.4 Helical Filter Adjustment ................................................................37

7.5 Upgrading the Radio’s Software .....................................................38

Using Radio Software Upgrade Diskette ......................................38

Using Radio Conﬁguration Software.............................................39

7.6 dBm-Watts-Volts Conversion Chart ................................................ 40

I-5 MDS 1710A/C and MDS2710A/C/D MDS 05-3447A01, Rev. F

length vs. loss in coaxial cables 12

Technical reference 33–40 Technical reference,

bench test setup,

36–37

TEMP command 29 Temperature, displaying internal (TEMP command) 29 Testing. See bench testing TEXT TOO LONG error message

Timer, set/display time-out value and status (TOT command) 30 TOT command 30 Transceiver

applications

conﬁguring for operation 10 connectors and indicators, illustrated 1 diagnostics using PC software 38 dimensions, mounting 11 mounting 9, 11 programming 17–20 speciﬁcations 33–34 upgrading software 38

Transmit Audio Input pinout (Pin 9) 14 Transmitter

speciﬁcations

system speciﬁcations 33

Troubleshooting 30–32

connecting Hand-Held Terminal (HHT) for displaying alarm

codes

performing network-wide diagnostics 34 STAT command (Status) 31 using PC software for 38

TX command 30 TXD LED

description

Pin 2 14

UNKNOWN COMMAND error message 19

I-4 MDS 1710A/C and MDS2710A/C/D MDS 05-3447A01, Rev. F

entering commands using the Hand-Held Terminal (HHT) 19 helical ﬁlter adjustment 37 installation 9 measuring RSSI with DC voltmeter 16 network-wide diagnostics 34 operation 15, 16 performance optimization 15 reading LED status indicators 16 resetting Hand-Held Terminal (HHT) 18 troubleshooting 30–32

Product

accessories 5 description 1 display model number code (MODEL command) 27 display radio serial number (SER command) 28

Programming radio as root or node 35 Programming, transceiver 17–20 PTT

command 27 pinout (Pins 14, 16) 14

PWR

command 27 LED 16

Radio

Conﬁguration Software 5, 38 Inhibit pinout (Pin 12) 14 serial number, displaying (SER command) 28

Receive Audio Output pinout (Pin 11) 14 Receiver

speciﬁcations

system speciﬁcations 33 unsquelched signal (Pin 10) 14

Redundant operation, deﬁned 8 Remote

RTU reset (Pin 15) 14 Station, deﬁned 8 Station, illustrated 9

Resetting

Hand-Held Terminal (HHT) (SHIFT,CTRL,SPACE keys)

remote RTU reset (Pin 15) 14 transceiver (INIT command) 26

Revision level

display hardware (HREV command) 26 display software (SREV command) 29

RSSI

adjusting helical ﬁlter for increased signal strength

command 28 command, used to reﬁne antenna heading 15 measuring 16 pinout (Pin 21) 15 vs. Vdc, illustrated 13, 16

RTS pinout (Pin 4) 14 RTU

command 28

RTU (Remote Terminal Unit)

deﬁned 8 remote reset (Pin 15) 14

RTU simulator, 36 RUS pinout (Pin10) 14 RX command 28 RXD LED

description 16 Pin 3 14

RXTOT command 28

SCADA (Supervisory Control And Data Acquisition), deﬁned 8 SCD command 28 SER command 28 Set

alarm output state (ASENSE command) 23 alarm triggers (AMASK command) 22 receive time-out timer value (RXTOT command) 28

SHOW command 29 Signal

ground (Pin 7) 14 loss due to coaxial cable length, table 12

Simplex 3

single-frequency operation 4 special case of switched carrier operation 4

Sleep mode

example implementation 13 ground on Radio Inhibit pin activates 14 Pin 12 14 shown by PWR LED status indicator 16

SNR command 29 Software

diagnostics and control used from PC 38 display revision level 29 upgrades (.S28 ﬁles) 38 upgrading 38 used for diagnostics and programming 17

Speciﬁcations

diagnostics interface 34 environment 34 power 34 receiver 34 receiver system 33 transceiver 33–34 transmitter 33 transmitter system 33

SREV command 29 STAT command 29 SWR (Standing Wave Radio), deﬁned 8

Tables

accessories

alarm code deﬁnitions 32 command summary 20 conversions, dBm-Watts-Volts 40 data interface connector pinouts 14 Hand-Held Terminal (HHT) operational settings 19 LED status indicators 16

MDS 05-3447A01, Rev. F MDS 1710A/C and MDS 2710A/C/D iii

This Installation and Operation Guide and all software described herein are protected by copyright: © 2004 Microwave Data Systems Inc . All rights reserved. MDS reserves its right to correct errors and omissions.

To Our Customers

We appreciate your patronage. You are our business. We promise to serve and anticipate your needs. We will strive to give you solutions that are cost effective, innovative, reliable and of the highest quality possible. We promise to build a relationship that is forthright and ethical, one that builds conﬁdence and trust.

RF Safety Notices

MDS 1710, 5 Watts

The radio equipment described in this guide emits radio frequency energy. Although the power level is low, the concentrated energy from a directional antenna may pose a health hazard. Do not allow people to come closer than 1.80 meters to the front of the antenna when the transmitter is operating with a 7 dBd (9.15 dBi) gain antenna. Use of higher gain antennas means increasing the distance accordingly.

This manual is intended to guide a professional installer to install, operate and perform basic system maintenance on the described radio.

MDS 2710A/C, 2 Watts

The radio equipment described in this guide emits radio frequency energy. Although the power level is low, the concentrated energy from a directional antenna may pose a health hazard. Do not allow people to come closer than 0.425 meters to the front of the antenna when the transmitter is operating with a 0 dBd (2.15 dBi) gain antenna. Use of higher gain antennas means increasing the distance accordingly.

This manual is intended to guide a professional installer to install, operate and perform basic system maintenance on the described radio.

MDS 2710D, 5 Watts

The radio equipment described in this guide emits radio frequency energy. Although the power level is low, the concentrated energy from a directional antenna may pose a health hazard. Do not allow people to come closer than 1.50 meters to the front of the antenna when the transmitter is operating with a 7 dBd (9.15 dBi) gain antenna. Use of higher gain antennas means increasing the distance accordingly.

This manual is intended to guide a professional installer to install, operate and perform basic system maintenance on the described radio.

RF Exposure

iv MDS 1710A/C and MDS 2710A/C/D MDS 05-3447A01, Rev. F

ISO 9001 Registration

Microwave Data Systems’ adheres to this internationally accepted quality system standard.

FCC Approval Notice

At the printing date, MDS 1710 models are approved for operation in the USA from150 to 174 MHz. MDS 2710 models are approved for operation in the USA from 216 to 222 MHz. Contact MDS for current approval status.

CSA/

Notice

This product is available for use in Class I, Division 2, Groups A, B, C & D Hazardous Locations. Such locations are defined in Article 500 of the National Fire Protection Association publication NFPA 70, otherwise known as the National Electrical Code.

The product has been recognized for use in hazardous locations by the Canadian Standards Association (CSA), which also issues the US mark of approval (CSA/

). The CSA Certification is in accordance with CSA STD C22.2 No. 213-M1987. The product has been evaluated in accordance with the following standards:

• CSA Std C22.2 No. 142-M1987 - Process Control Equipment

• CSA Std C22.2 No. 213-M1987 - Non-Incendive Electrical Equipment for

Use in Class I, Division 2 Hazardous Locations

• ANSI/UL Std No. 508 - Industrial Control Equipment

• UL Std No. 1604 - Electrical Equipment for Use in Class I and II, Division

2; Class III Hazardous (Classified) Locations

FCC Part 15 Notice

The transceiver complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) this device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation. This device is specifically designed to be used under Section 15.247 of the FCC Rules and Regulations. Any unauthorized modification or changes to this device without the express approval of Microwave Data Systems may void the user’s authority to operate this device. Furthermore, this device is intended to be used only when installed in accordance with the instructions outlined in this manual. Failure to comply with these instructions may also void the user’s authority to operate this device.

MDS 05-3447A01, Rev. F MDS 1710A/C and MDS2710A/C/D I-3

MAS network 3 MDS 2710A/D model number codes 4 network-wide diagnostics 35 point-to-point link 3 remote station arrangement 9 RJ-11 to DB-9 adapter cable 36 RSSI vs. Vdc 13, 16 transceiver connectors & indicators 1 transceiver mounting dimensions 11

INCORRECT ENTRY error message 19 INIT command 26 INIT xx10 command 26 INIT xx20 command 26 InSite software

using to perform remote diagnostics 34

Installation 8–15

antenna 9 conﬁguring transceiver 10 DATA INTERFACE connection 9 data interface connections 13 power 9 power connection 12 steps 9

Intrusive diagnostics (deﬁned) 7

KEY command 27 Keying

continuously keyed versus switched carrier operation 4 continuously keyed, deﬁned 4 on data (DKEY command) 25 switched carrier, deﬁned 4

Latency, deﬁned 7 LEDs

DCD

indicators, described 16 PWR 16 RXD 16 RXD, Pin 3 14 status indicators, illustrated 16 TXD 16 TXD, Pin 2 14

Loss. See Signal

MAS (Multiple Address System) 2

deﬁned 7 illustration 3

Master Station

deﬁned

keying behavior 4

MCU (Microcontroller Unit), deﬁned 7 MODEL command 27 Model number codes

displaying (MODEL command)

MDS 2710A/D, illustrated 4

MODEM command 27 Modem, set speed. See MODEM command

Network-wide diagnostics

active messaging, deﬁned

deﬁned 7 enable/disable (DLINK command) 25 enable/disable internal RTU (RTU command) 28 illustrated 35 intrusive diagnostics, deﬁned 7 passive messaging (deﬁned) 7 procedures 34 set radio to Root or Node (DTYPE command) 25 set time to wait between characters (DMGAP command) 25

NOT AVAILABLE error message 20 NOT PROGRAMMED error message 20

Operation 15–16

environment, speciﬁcations for 34

Output, 9.9 Vdc regulated, pinout (Pin 19) 15 OWM command 27 OWN command 27 Owner’s message, set/display. See OWM command Owner’s name, set/display. See OWN command

Passive messaging (deﬁned) 7 Payload data (deﬁned) 8 Performance

testing,

36–37

Pinouts on data interface 14 PLC (Programmable Logic Controller), deﬁned 8 Point-to-multipoint

deﬁned

system 2

Point-to-point

link, illustrated

system 3

Poll, deﬁned 8 Power

connection

display DC voltage (SHOW command) 29 display RF output (SHOW command) 29 installing 9 LED status indicator (PWR LED) 16 RF, chart for converting dBm-Watts-Volts 40 speciﬁcations 34

Power attenuators, use of in testing 37 Procedures

checking for alarms (STAT command)

connecting Hand-Held Terminal (HHT) 17 downloading new software 38

I-2 MDS 1710A/C and MDS2710A/C/D MDS 05-3447A01, Rev. F

Description, product 1 Detailed 22 DEVICE command 24 Diagnostic Channel Enable, pinout (Pin 23) 15 Diagnostics

interface speciﬁcations 34 network-wide, performing 34 PC software used for 38 using InSite software for network-wide 34

Differences between models 2 Display

alarm status (STAT command)

alarm triggers (AMASK command) 22 all programmed settings (DUMP command) 26 baud rate and encoding (BAUD command) 23 connector port, active (SHOW command) 29 CTS line response timer (CTS command) 24 data handling mode (BUFF command) 23 DC voltage (SHOW command) 29 hardware revision leve (HREV command)l 26 key-up delay (PTT command) 27 model number code (MODEL command) 27 owner’s message (OWM command) 27 owner’s name (OWN command) 27 radio behavior (DEVICE command) 24 radio serial number (SER command) 28 receive frequency (RX command) 28 receive time-out timer value (RXTOT command) 28 RF forward output power (PWR command) 27 RF output (SHOW command) 29 RSSI (RSSI command) 28 signal-to-noise ratio (SNR command) 29 soft-carrier dekey delay (SCD command) 28 software revision level (SREV command) 29 temperature, internal (TEMP command) 29 time-out value and timer status (TOT command) 30 transmit frequency (TX command) 30

DKEY command 25 DLINK command 25

use of 35

DMGAP command 25 Downloading new software 38 DSP (Digital Signal Processing), deﬁned 6 DSR pinout (Pin 6) 14 DTE (Data Terminal Equipment), deﬁned 6 DTYPE command 25

use of 35

DUMP command 26

EEPROM FAILURE error message 20 Enable/disable

continuous keying (CKEY command)

diagnostic channel, pinout (Pin 23) 15 internal RTU (RTU command) 28 network-wide diagnostics (DLINK command) 25 network-wide diagnostics, procedures 35

Environment speciﬁcations 34

Equalization, deﬁned 6 Error messages 19

access denied 20 command failed 20 EEPROM failure 20 incorrect entry 19 not available 20 not programmed 20 text too long 20 unknown command 19

Fade margin, deﬁned 7 Feedlines 12 Filter, helical, adjustment 37 Frame, deﬁned 7 Frequency

adjusting helical ﬁlter when changed

setting. See TX and RX commands

Glossary 5 Ground

on Pin 12 to enable Sleep mode

protective (Pin 1) 14 signal (Pin 7) 14

Half-duplex 3

switched carrier operation 4

Hand-Held Terminal (HHT) 5

connected to transceiver, illustrated 18 connection and startup 17 display in response to STAT command, illustrated 31 entering commands 19 error messages displayed on 19 keyboard commands 19 operational settings, table 19 reinitialization display, illustrated 18 reinitializing 18

Hardware ﬂow control, deﬁned 7 Helical ﬁlter

adjusting

illustration 38

Host computer, deﬁned 7 HREV command 26

Illustrations

antenna, Yagi 12 Hand-Held Terminal (HHT) connected to transceiver 18 Hand-Held Terminal (HHT) reinitialization display 18 Hand-Held Terminal display in response to STAT command 31 helical ﬁlter locations 38

MDS 05-3447A01, Rev. F MDS 1710A/C and MDS 2710A/C/D v

Manual Revision and Accuracy

While every reasonable effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of this manual, product improvements may result in minor differences between the manual and the product shipped to you. If you have additional questions or need an exact specification for a product, please contact our Customer Service Team using the information at the back of this guide. In addition, manual updates can often be found on the MDS Web site at www.microwavedata.com. Microwave Data Systems Inc. reserves the right to correct all errors or omissions in this document without obligation to any party.

vi MDS 1710A/C and MDS 2710A/C/D MDS 05-3447A01, Rev. F

MDS 05-3447A01, Rev. F MDS 1710A/C and MDS2710A/C/D I-1

INDEX

ACCESS DENIED error message 20 Accessories 5 Accessory Power pinout (Pin 18) 14 Active messaging (deﬁned) 5 Alarms

alarm code deﬁnitions

major vs. minor 31 pinout (Pin 25) 15 using STAT command to display 29

AMASK command 22 Antenna

installation

RSSI command used to reﬁne heading 15 system gain, deﬁned 6 Yagi, illustrated 12

Antennas 11–12 Applications 2

Multiple Address Systems (MAS) 2 point-to-multipoint system 2 point-to-point system 3

ASENSE command 23

BAUD command 23 Baud rate

setting for RJ-11 DIAG port (DLINK command)

25, 35

Bench testing (radio performance), 36–37 Bit, deﬁned 6 Bits-per-second. See BPS BPS (bits-per-second), deﬁned

BUFF command 23 Byte, deﬁned 6

Cable, loss due to length of coaxial 12 Cautions

use attenuation between all units in test setup

CKEY command 24 COMMAND FAILED error message 20 Command summary, table 20 Commands

AMASK (set/display alarm triggers)

ASENSE (set alarm output state) 23 BAUD (set/display rate, encoding) 23 BUFF (set/display data handling mode) 23 CKEY (enable/disable continuous keying) 24 CTS (set/display CTS line response timer) 24

DATAKEY (enable/disable transmitter keying by radio) 24 DEVICE (set/display radio behavior) 24 DKEY (deactivate transmitter after KEY command) 25 DLINK (enable/disable network-wide diagnostics) 25 DMGAP (set time to wait between characters) 25 DTYPE (set radio to Root or Node for diagnostics) 25 DUMP (display all programmed settings) 26 entering on Hand-Held Terminal (HHT) 19 Hand-Held Terminal (HHT) 19 HREV (display hardware revision level) 26 INIT (reinitialize radio to factory defaults) 26 INIT xx10 (restore standard transceiver defaults) 26 INIT xx20 (conﬁgure radio for use with P-20 chassis) 26 KEY (activate transmitter) 27 MODEL (display radio model number code) 27 MODEM (set modem speed) 27 OWM (set/display owner’s message) 27 OWN (set/display owner’s name) 27 PTT (set/display key-up delay) 27 PWR (set/display RF forward output power) 27 RSSI (display RSSI) 28 RTU (enable/disable internal RTU) 28 RX (set/display receive frequency) 28 RXTOT (set/display receive time-out timer value) 28 SCD (set/display soft-carrier dekey delay) 28 SER (display radio serial number 28 SHOW (display DC voltage, data port, RF power) 29 SNR (display signal-to-noise ratio) 29 SREV (display software revision level) 29 STAT (display current alarm status) 29 TEMP (display internal temperature) 29 TOT (set/display time-out value and timer status) 30 TX (set/display transmit frequency) 30

Conversions, dBm-Watts-Volts 40 CTS command 24 CTS pinout (Pin 5) 14

Data interface

connector pinouts

display active connector port 29 installing connection 13

DATAKEY command 24 dB. See Decibel 6 dBi, deﬁned 6 dBm, deﬁned 6 DCD

LED

pinout (Pin 8) 14

DCE (Data Cirtuit-terminating Equipment), deﬁned 6 Decibel (dB), deﬁned 6

40 MDS 1710A/C and MDS 2710A/C/D MDS 05-3447A01, Rev. F

7.6 dBm-Watts-Volts Conversion Chart

Table 9 is provided as a convenience for determining the equivalent

wattage or voltage of an RF power expressed in dBm.

Table 9. dBm-Watts-Volts Conversion—for 50 Ohm Systems

dBm V Po

+53 100.0 200W +50 70.7 100W +49 64.0 80W +48 58.0 64W +47 50.0 50W +46 44.5 40W +45 40.0 32W +44 32.5 25W +43 32.0 20W +42 28.0 16W +41 26.2 12.5W +40 22.5 10W +39 20.0 8W +38 18.0 6.4W +37 16.0 5W +36 14.1 4W +35 12.5 3.2W +34 11.5 2.5W +33 10.0 2W +32 9.0 1.6W +31 8.0 1.25W +30 7.10 1.0W +29 6.40 800mW +28 5.80 640mW +27 5.00 500mW +26 4.45 400mW +25 4.00 320mW +24 3.55 250mW +23 3.20 200mW +22 2.80 160mW +21 2.52 125mW +20 2.25 100mW +19 2.00 80mW +18 1.80 64mW +17 1.60 50mW +16 1.41 40mW +15 1.25 32mW +14 1.15 25mW +13 1.00 20mW +12 .90 16mW +11 .80 12.5mW +10 .71 10mW +9 .64 8mW +8 .58 6.4mW +7 .500 5mW +6 .445 4mW +5 .400 3.2mW +4 .355 2.5mW +3 .320 2.0mW +2 .280 1.6mW +1 .252 1.25mW

dBm V Po

0 .225 1.0mW

-1 .200 .80mW

-2 .180 .64mW

-3 .160 .50mW

-4 .141 .40mW

-5 .125 .32mW

-6 .115 .25mW

-7 .100 .20mW

-8 .090 .16mW

-9 .080 .125mW

-10 .071 .10mW

-11 .064

-12 .058

-13 .050

-14 .045

-15 .040

-16 .0355

dBm mV Po

-17 31.5

-18 28.5

-19 25.1

-20 22.5 .01mW

-21 20.0

-22 17.9

-23 15.9

-24 14.1

-25 12.8

-26 11.5

-27 10.0

-28 8.9

-29 8.0

-30 7.1 .001mW

-31 6.25

-32 5.8

-33 5.0

-34 4.5

-35 4.0

-36 3.5

-37 3.2

-38 2.85

-39 2.5

-40 2.25 .1µW

-41 2.0

-42 1.8

-43 1.6

-44 1.4

-45 1.25

-46 1.18

-47 1.00

-48 0.90

dBm mV Po

-49 0.80

-50 0.71 .01µW

-51 0.64

-52 0.57

-53 0.50

-54 0.45

-55 0.40

-56 0.351

-57 0.32

-58 0.286

-59 0.251

-60 0.225 .001µW

-61 0.200

-62 0.180

-63 0.160

-64 0.141

dBm µV Po

-65 128

-66 115

-67 100

-68 90

-69 80

-70 71 .1nW

-71 65

-72 58

-73 50

-74 45

-75 40

-76 35

-77 32

-78 29

-79 25

-80 22.5 .01nW

-81 20.0

-82 18.0

-83 16.0

-84 11.1

-85 12.9

-86 11.5

-87 10.0

-88 9.0

-89 8.0

-90 7.1 .001nW

-91 6.1

-92 5.75

-93 5.0

-94 4.5

-95 4.0

-96 3.51

-97 3.2

dBm µV Po

-98 2.9

-99 2.51

-100 2.25 .1pW

-101 2.0

-102 1.8

-103 1.6

-104 1.41

-105 1.27

-106 1.18

dBm nV Po

-107 1000

-108 900

-109 800

-110 710 .01pW

-111 640

-112 580

-113 500

-114 450

-115 400

-116 355

-117 325

-118 285

-119 251

-120 225 .001pW

-121 200

-122 180

-123 160

-124 141

-125 128

-126 117

-127 100

-128 90

-129 80 .1ƒW

-130 71

-131 61

-132 58

-133 50

-134 45

-135 40

-136 35

-137 33

-138 29

-139 25

-140 23 .01ƒW

MDS 05-3447A01, Rev. F MDS 1710A/C and MDS 2710A/C/D 1

1.0 GENERAL

1.1 Introduction

This guide presents installation and operating instructions for MDS 1710A/C and MDS 2710 A/C/D series digital radio transceivers.

These transceivers (Figure 1) are data telemetry radios designed to operate in a point-to-multipoint environment, such as electric utility Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) and distribution automation, gas field automation, water and wastewater SCADA, and on-line transaction processing applications. They use microprocessor control and Digital Signal Processing (DSP) technology to provide highly reliable communications even under adverse conditions.

MDS 1710/2710 Series radios use continuous-phase frequency shift keying (CPFSK) modulation with root duo-binary filtering (the sum of two Nyquist-shaped, root-raised cosine responses). Demodulation uses a Virterbi decoder and equalization with soft decision decoding.

Modulation and demodulation is accomplished using Digital Signal Processing (DSP). DSP adapts to differences between components from unit to unit, and ensures consistent and repeatable performance in ambient temperatures from –30 to +60 degrees Celsius. The use of Digital Signal Processing eliminates the fluctuations and variations in modem operation that can degrade the operation of analog circuits.

Figure 1. Transceiver Connectors and Indicators

The transceiver is designed for trouble-free operation with data equipment provided by many other manufacturers, including Remote Terminal Units (RTUs), programmable logic controllers (PLCs), flow computers, lottery terminals, automatic teller machines, and others.

EXTERNAL

INTERFACE

CONNECTOR

(DB-25)

DIAGNOSTICS CONNECTOR (RJ-11)

13.8 VDC POWER CONNECTOR

ANTENNA CONNECTOR (TYPE “N”)

SERIAL NUMBER

LABEL

LED INDICATORS (4)

2 MDS 1710A/C and MDS 2710A/C/D MDS 05-3447A01, Rev. F

NOTE: Some features may not be available, based on the options

purchased and the applicable regulations for the region in which the radio will operate.

1.2 Differences Between Models

All models of the MDS 1710/2710 Series are very similar in appearance and functionality. The major differences are in frequency coverage, channel bandwidth and data speed. Table 1 summarizes the available models and identifies the characteristics of each.

To determine the specific settings for your radio (as originally shipped from the factory), please refer to the Product Configurator chart shown in Figure 4.

NOTE: The operating software for A, C, and D models is not inter-

changeable.

NOTE: The narrow bandwidth of the MDS 2710D transceiver is not

compatible with standard analog modems, including the widely used Bell 202T. The MDS 2710D is intended for digital RS-232 data only.

1.3 Applications

Point-to-Multipoint, Multiple Address Systems (MAS)

This is the most common application of the transceiver. It consists of a central master station and several associated remote units as shown in

Figure 2. An MAS network provides communications between a central

host computer and remote terminal units (RTUs) or other data collection devices. The operation of the radio system is transparent to the computer equipment.

Table 1. MDS 1710/2710 Series Characteristics

Radio

Model No.

Operating

Frequency

Channel

Bandwidth

Over-the-Air

Data Speed

Output

Power (W)

MDS 1710A 130–174 MHz 12.5 kHz 9600 bps 5

MDS 1710C 130–174 MHz 25 kHz 19200 bps 5

MDS 2710A 216–220 MHz 12.5 kHz 9600 bps 2

MDS 2710A 220–240 MHz 12.5 kHz 9600 bps 5

MDS 2710C 216–220 MHz 25 kHz 19200 bps 2

MDS 2710C 220-240 MHz 25 kHz 19200 bps 5

MDS 2710D 220–222 MHz 5 kHz 3200 bps 5

Consult factory for current regulatory approvals on these products.

MDS 05-3447A01, Rev. F MDS 1710A/C and MDS 2710A/C/D 39

The upgrade software can be run on an IBM-compatible computer connected to the radio’s

DIAG. port via an RJ-11 to DB-9 adapter (MDS P/N

03-3246A01). If desired, an adapter cable may be constructed from scratch using the information shown in Figure 13.

To initiate the upgrade, insert the upgrade diskette in Drive A:. Set the working directory to

A: (example: from a DOS prompt type A:\). Next,

type

UPGRADE and press the ENTER key. (If you have the radio connected

via the Com2 serial port, type

UPGRADE-2 instead.) The upgrade soft-

ware will normally run automatically without any further prompts.

The radio’s

PWR LED will flash rapidly to confirm that a download is

in process. The download takes about two minutes.

NOTE: If a software download fails, the radio is left unprogrammed

and inoperative. This is indicated by the PWR LED flashing slowly (1 second on, 1 second off). This condition is only likely if a power failure occurred to the computer or radio during the downloading process. The download can be attempted again when the fault has been corrected.

Using Radio Configuration Software

If you already have software that you wish to download into the transceiver, Radio Configuration Software (MDS P/N 03-3156A01) may be used to perform the installation. To use this method, proceed as follows:

Connect a PC to the radio’s

DIAG. port via an RJ-11 to DB-9 adapter

(MDS P/N 03-3246A01). If desired, an adapter cable may be constructed from scratch using the information shown in Figure 13.

Run the Radio Configuration software. Under the

SYSTEM menu, select

RADIO SOFTWARE UPGRADE. Follow the prompts and online instructions

to locate the desired software and complete the upgrade.

The radio’s

PWR LED will flash rapidly to confirm that a download is

in process. The download takes about two minutes.

NOTE: If a software download fails, the radio is left unprogrammed

38 MDS 1710A/C and MDS 2710A/C/D MDS 05-3447A01, Rev. F

5. With a small adjustment tool, adjust each section of the helical ﬁlter for maximum RSSI. Re-install the cover to the transceiver.

Invisible place holder

Figure 15. Helical Filter Location

7.5 Upgrading the Radio’s Software

From time to time, new product features or software maintenance files may become available from MDS. This section describes the steps necessary to install new software into the transceiver using a PC connected to the radio’s

DIAG. port.

Upgrade software can be obtained in a number of ways. The MDS Web site at www.microwavedata.com contains an FTP area with software files for several radio models. You can browse the listings to see if there are files pertaining to your particular model. There is no charge for this service.

In addition, you can also contact MDS to request radio software. Software files may be sent to you via e-mail, or on a 3.5” diskette. There may be a nominal charge for the software depending on the nature of the upgrade.

NOTE: Software upgrades are distributed as ASCII files with a “.S28”

extension. These files use the Motorola S-record format.

Using Radio Software Upgrade Diskette

A software upgrade diskette may be purchased from MDS to add new product features to the radio such as Network-wide Diagnostics. The upgrade kit includes a diskette (MDS P/N 06-3501A01) with the most current radio software, authorization codes, and an instruction booklet. Contact MDS for ordering information. When calling, please have the serial number(s) available for the radio(s) that you wish to upgrade.

FRONT PANEL

OF RADIO

J301

U104

U101

U202

HELICAL

ADJUSTMENTS

U203

SHIELD COVER

MDS 05-3447A01, Rev. F MDS 1710A/C and MDS 2710A/C/D 3

Often, a radio system consists of many widely separated remote radios. A point-to-multipoint or SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition) system may be a new installation for automatic, remote monitoring of gas wells, water tank levels, electric power distribution system control and measurement, etc.

The radio system may replace a network of remote monitors currently linked to a central location via leased telephone line. At the central office of such a system, there is usually a large mainframe computer and some means of switching between individual lines coming from each remote monitor. In this type of system, there is a modulator/demodulator (modem) at the main computer, and at each remote site, usually built into the remote monitor itself. Since the cost of leasing a dedicated-pair phone line is quite high, radio is often used as an alternative communication medium.

Invisible place holder

Figure 2. Typical MAS Point-to-Multipoint Network

Point-to-Point System

Where permitted, the transceiver may also be used in a point-to-point arrangement. A point-to-point system consists of just two radios—one serving as a master and the other as a remote—as shown in Figure 3. It provides a simplex or half-duplex communications link for the transfer of data between two locations.

Figure 3. Typical Point-to-Point Link

RTU

REMOTE RADIO

HOSTSYSTEM

MASTER RADIO

REMOTE

MASTER

HOST

COMPUTER

RTU

4 MDS 1710A/C and MDS 2710A/C/D MDS 05-3447A01, Rev. F

Continuously Keyed vs. Switched Carrier Operation

The keying behavior of the master station can be used to describe an MAS system.

Continuously Keyed operation means the master station transmitter is

always transmitting a carrier, even when there is no data to send. The master station is always simultaneously transmitting and continuously listening. Different frequencies must be used for transmit and receive.

Switched Carrier operation is a half-duplex mode of operation where

the master station transmitter is keyed to send data and unkeyed to receive.

Single Frequency (Simplex) Operation

Single frequency operation (also known as simplex) is a special case of switched carrier operation. Single frequency operation is automatically selected whenever the transmit and receive frequencies are set to the same value. Note that data turn-around times are increased when a single frequency configuration is used.

1.4 Product Configurator Codes

The full radio model number is printed on the radio enclosure. It provides key information about how the radio was configured when it was originally shipped from the factory. See Figure 4 for an explanation of the configurator codes.

Invisible place holder

Figure 4. MDS 1710x/2710x Product Configurator Codes

THIS INFORMATION IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE.

DO NOT

USE FOR

PRODUCT ORDERING.

1710A/C,

OPERATION X= Base/Remote

MODE N= Non-redundant

INPUT VOLTAGE 1= 10.5 to 16 VDC

MODEM B= 9600 bps

DIAGNOSTICS 0= None 1= Network-wide

BANDWIDTH 1= 12.5 kHz 3= 25 kHz

FEATURES 0= Full

AGENCY N= N/A

SAFETY N= N/A

Mtg. Brackets. A= Std. B= None

5= 5 kHz

D= 3200 bps 0= None

C= 19200 bps

RX FRQ. (MHz)

A= 220-240**

A= 130-140

B=140-150 D= 150-165 E= 165-175

TX FRQ. (MHz)

1= 220-240** 2= 140-150 3= 150-165

D= Demo

C= China F= FCC I= Ind. Canada

(6.25 kHz @130-174)

2710A/C/D

4= 165-174

1= 130-140

** MDS 2710A/C Models

A= 220-222*

* MDS 2710D Models

1= 220-222*

MDS 05-3447A01, Rev. F MDS 1710A/C and MDS 2710A/C/D 37

NOTE: It is very important to use attenuation between all units in the

test setup. The amount of attenuation required will depend on the number of units being tested and the desired signal strength (RSSI) at each transceiver during the test. In no case should a signal greater than –50 dBm be applied to any transceiver in the test setup.

Invisible place holder

Figure 14. Typical setup for bench testing of radios

7.4 Helical Filter Adjustment

If the operating frequency of the radio is changed significantly, the helical filters should be adjusted for maximum received signal strength (RSSI). To adjust the filters, proceed as follows:

1. Remove the top cover from the transceiver by loosening the four screws and lifting straight up.

2. Locate the helical ﬁlters on the PC board. See Figure 15.

3. Apply a steady signal to the radio at the programmed receive frequency (–80 dBm level recommended; no stronger than –60 dBm). This can be done with a signal generator or an over-the-air signal.

4. Measure the radio’s RSSI using one of the following methods:

• With an HHT (See Section 5.0, TRANSCEIVER PROGRAM-

MING on page 17).

• With MDS Radio Configuration Software (See Section 7.5,

Upgrading the Radio’s Software on page 38).

• With a voltmeter connected to Pin 21 of the

DATA INTERFACE

connector (See Section 4.2, RSSI Measurement on page 16).

ANTENNA

13.

VDC

–

TENNA

13.8

VDC

–

ANTENNA

3.8

VDC

–

ANTENNA

13.

VDC

–

POWER ATTENUATORS

• Fixed or adjustable

• 5W Minimum Rating

POWER DIVIDER

NON-RADIATING ATTENUATOR

• Install on any unused divider ports

• 5W Minimum Rating

COMPUTER RUNNING MDS

"POLL.EXE" PROGRAM

RTU SIMULATORS MDS P/N 03-2512A01*

MASTER STATION

REMOTE

* Transceiver's internal RTU Simulator may be used if external simulator is unavailable. See text.

36 MDS 1710A/C and MDS 2710A/C/D MDS 05-3447A01, Rev. F

3. Program all other radios in the network as nodes by entering the

DTYPE NODE command at each radio.

4. Use the

DLINK ON and DLINK [baud rate] commands to conﬁgure the

diagnostic link protocol on the RJ-11 port of each node radio.

5. Connect same-site radios using a null-modem cable at the radios’ diagnostic ports.

6. Connect a PC on which MDS InSite software is installed to the root radio, or to one of the nodes, at the radio’s diagnostic port. (This PC may be the PC being used to collect payload data, as shown in

Figure 12.)

To connect a PC to the radio’s

DIAG. port, an RJ-11 to DB-9 adapter

(MDS P/N 03-3246A01) is required. If desired, an adapter cable may be constructed from scratch using the information shown in

Figure 13.

Invisible place holder

Figure 13. RJ-11 to DB-9 Adapter Cable

7. Launch the MDS InSite application at the PC. (See the MDS InSite User’s Guide for instructions.)

7.3 Bench Testing Setup

Figure 14 shows a sample test setup that can be used to verify the basic

operation of transceivers in a shop setting. The test can be performed with any number of remote radios by using a power divider with the required number of output connections.

The RTU simulator shown in the test setup (MDS Part No. 03-2512A01) is a microcontroller that emulates a remote terminal unit operating at 1200, 2400, 4800, or 9600 bps. Custom software is supplied with the RTU simulator that allows continuous polling of remote radios using an IBM-compatible personal computer. The software reports the number of polls sent, polls received, and the number of errors detected.

As an alternative to using an external RTU simulator, the transceiver’s internal RTU simulator may be used (see

RTU command in Table 7 on

page 20). (This will not provide as conclusive a test as an external sim-

ulator because it does not utilize the transceiver’s data connector.)

RXD

TXD

GND

DB-9 FEMALE

(TO COMPUTER)

TXD

RXD

GND

RJ-11 PLUG (TO RADIO)

RJ-11 PIN LAYOUT

MDS 05-3447A01, Rev. F MDS 1710A/C and MDS 2710A/C/D 5

1.5 Accessories

The transceiver can be used with one or more of the accessories listed in

Table 2. Contact Microwave Data Systems for ordering information.

2.0 GLOSSARY OF TERMS

If you are new to digital radio systems, some of the terms used in this guide may be unfamiliar. The following glossary explains many of these terms and will prove helpful in understanding the operation of the transceiver.

Active Messaging —This is a mode of diagnostic gathering that may

interrupt SCADA system polling communications (contrast with pas-

sive messaging ). Active (or intrusive) messaging is much faster than

passive messaging because it is not dependent upon the RTU polling cycle.

Table 2. MDS 1710/2710 Series Optional Accessories

Accessory Description MDS P/N

Hand-Held Terminal Kit (HHT)

Terminal that plugs into the radio for programming, diagnostics & control. Includes carrying case, instructions and cable set.

02-1501A01

RTU Simulator Test module that simulates data from a

remote terminal unit. Comes with MDS polling software (02-2093Axx) that runs on a PC. Useful for testing radio operation.

03-2512A01

Order Wire Module External device that allows temporary

voice communication. Useful during setup & testing of the radio system.

02-1297A01

Power Supply Kit AC adaptor that converts 110/220 Vac to

12 Vdc at 30 watts.

01-3682A01

Order Wire Handset Used with Order Wire Module (above). 12-1307A01

RJ-11 to DB-9 Adapter Used to connect a PC to the radio’s

DIAG. port

03-3246A01

EIA-232 to EIA-422 Converter Assembly

External adapter plug that converts the radio’s DATA INTERFACE connector to EIA-422 compatible signaling.

03-2358A01

TTL Converter Assembly

External adapter plug that converts the radio’s DATA INTERFACE connector to TTL compatible signaling.

03-2223A01

Radio Configuration Software

Provides diagnostics of the transceiver (Windows-based PC required.)

03-3156A01

VOX Assembly External unit used to key the radio when

audio input is present.

03-1098A02

19-inch Rack Mounting Kit

Allows mounting the transceiver in a standard 19 inch rack cabinet. (Power supply and Interface Board not included.)

02-1983A02

Brown-Out Protection Board

PCB that protects against low voltage conditions.

03-2567A01

6 MDS 1710A/C and MDS 2710A/C/D MDS 05-3447A01, Rev. F

Antenna System Gain —A figure, normally expressed in dB, repre-

senting the power increase resulting from the use of a gain-type antenna. System losses (from the feedline and coaxial connectors, for example) are subtracted from this figure to calculate the total antenna system gain.

Bit —The smallest unit of digital data, often represented by a one or a

zero. Eight bits (plus start, stop, and parity bits) usually comprise a byte.

Bits-per-second —See BPS .

BPS —Bits-per-second. A measure of the information transfer rate of

digital data across a communication channel.

Byte —A string of digital data usually made up of eight data bits and

start, stop and parity bits.

Decibel (dB)—A measure computed from the ratio between two signal levels. Frequently used to express the gain (or loss) of a system.

Data Circuit-terminating Equipment—See DCE.

Data Communications Equipment—See DCE.

Data Terminal Equipment—See DTE.

dBi—Decibels referenced to an “ideal” isotropic radiator in free space.

Frequently used to express antenna gain.

dBm—Decibels referenced to one milliwatt. An absolute unit used to measure signal power, as in transmitter power output, or received signal strength.

DCE—Data Circuit-terminating Equipment (or Data Communications Equipment). In data communications terminology, this is the “modem” side of a computer-to-modem connection. The transceiver described in this guide is a DCE device.

Digital Signal Processing—See DSP.

DSP—Digital Signal Processing. In the transceiver, the DSP circuitry is

responsible for the most critical real-time tasks; primarily modulation, demodulation, and servicing of the data port.

DTE—Data Terminal Equipment. A device that provides data in the form of digital signals at its output. Connects to the DCE device.

Equalization—The process of reducing the effects of amplitude, frequency or phase distortion with compensating networks.

MDS 05-3447A01, Rev. F MDS 1710A/C and MDS 2710A/C/D 35

Figure 12 shows an example of a setup for performing network-wide

remote diagnostics from both a Root (master station) location, and a Node (remote station) location.

Invisible place holder

Figure 12. Network-Wide Remote Diagnostics Setup

If a PC is connected to any radio in the network, intrusive polling (polling which briefly interrupts payload data transmission) can be performed. To perform diagnostics without interrupting payload data transmission, connect the PC to a radio defined as the “root” radio. A radio is defined as a root radio using the

DTYPE ROOT command locally, at the

radio.

A complete explanation of remote diagnostics can be found in MDS’ Network-Wide Diagnostics System Handbook (MDS P/N 05-3467A01). See the Handbook for more information about the basic diagnostic procedures outlined below.

1. Program one radio in the network as the root radio by entering the

DTYPE ROOT command at the radio.

2. At the root radio, use the DLINK ON and DLINK [baud rate] commands to conﬁgure the diagnostic link protocol on the RJ-11 port.

RTU

MASTER RADIO

DIAGNOSTICS COMPUTER

RUNNING InSite

PAYLOAD DATA

(To SCADA Application)

DIAGNOSTIC DATA

(To InSite)

HOST COMPUTER

NODE

(Supports Intrusive

Diagnostics Only)

ROOT

(Supports Intrusive or

Non-Intrusive Diagnostics)

34 MDS 1710A/C and MDS 2710A/C/D MDS 05-3447A01, Rev. F

RECEIVER

Frequency Range: 130-174 MHz (MDS 1710A/C)

216-220 MHz (MDS 2710 A/C) 220-240 MHz (MDS 2710A/C) 220-222 MHz (MDS 2710D)

See Figure 4 on Page 4 for detailed listing

Type: Double conversion superheterodyne

Frequency Stability: ±1.5 ppm

Maximum Usable Sensitivity: –111 dBm for 1 x 10

-6

BER

Spurious Response Rejection: 70 dB

Intermodulation Response Rejection: 65 dB

Receiver Spurious Conducted Emissions: –57 dBm, 9 kHz to 1 GHz

–47 dBm, 1 GHz to 12.5 GHz

Receiver Spurious Radiated Emissions: –57 dBm, 30 MHz to 1 GHz

–47 dBm, 1 GHz to 12.5 GHz

Bandwidth: 5 kHz (MDS 2710D)

12.5 kHz (MDS 1710A, 2710A) 25 kHz (MDS 1710C, 2710C)

PRIMARY POWER

Voltage: 13.8 Vdc Nominal (10.5 to 16 Vdc)

TX Supply Current: 2.5 amps max RX Supply Current: Operational—150 mA (nominal)

Standby (sleep)—Less than 16 mA (nominal)

Fuse: 4 Amp Polyfuse, Self-Resetting, Internal

(Remove Primary Power to Reset)

Reverse Polarity Protection: Diode across primary input

ENVIRONMENTAL

Humidity: 95% at 40 degrees C

Temperature Range: –30 to 60 degrees C (full performance)

–40 to 70 degrees C (operational)

Weight: 1.6 kilograms

Case: Die-cast Aluminum

DIAGNOSTICS INTERFACE

Signaling Standard: EIA-232

Connector: RJ-11 (may use radio’s DB-25 instead if Pin 23 is

grounded to enable diagnostics channel)

I/O Devices: MDS Hand Held Terminal or PC with MDS software

7.2 Performing Network-Wide Remote Diagnostics

Diagnostics data from a remote radio can be obtained by connecting a laptop or personal computer running MDS InSite diagnostics software to any radio in the network.

MDS 05-3447A01, Rev. F MDS 1710A/C and MDS 2710A/C/D 7

Fade Margin—The greatest tolerable reduction in average received signal strength that will be anticipated under most conditions. Provides an allowance for reduced signal strength due to multipath, slight antenna movement or changing atmospheric losses. A fade margin of 20 to 30 dB is usually sufficient in most systems.

Frame—A segment of data that adheres to a specific data protocol and contains definite start and end points. It provides a method of synchronizing transmissions.

Hardware Flow Control—A transceiver feature used to prevent data buffer overruns when handling high-speed data from the RTU or PLC. When the buffer approaches overflow, the radio drops the clear-to-send (CTS) line, which instructs the RTU or PLC to delay further transmission until CTS again returns to the high state.

Host Computer—The computer installed at the master station site, which controls the collection of data from one or more remote sites.

Intrusive Diagnostics—A mode of remote diagnostics that queries and commands radios in a network with an impact on the delivery of the system “payload” data. See Active messaging.

Latency—The delay (usually expressed in milliseconds) between when data is applied to TXD (Pin 2) at one radio, until it appears at RXD (Pin 3) at the other radio.

MAS—Multiple Address System. A radio system where a central master station communicates with several remote stations for the purpose of gathering telemetry data.

Master (Station)—Radio which is connected to the host computer. It is the point at which polling enters the network.

MCU—Microcontroller Unit. This is the processor responsible for controlling system start-up, synthesizer loading, and key-up control.

Microcontroller Unit—See MCU.

Multiple Address System—See MAS.

Network-Wide Diagnostics—An advanced method of controlling and

interrogating MDS radios in a radio network.

Non-intrusive diagnostics—See Passive messaging.

Passive messaging—This is a mode of diagnostic gathering that does

not interrupt SCADA system polling communications. Diagnostic data is collected non-intrusively over a period of time; polling messages are carried with SCADA system data (contrast with active messaging).

8 MDS 1710A/C and MDS 2710A/C/D MDS 05-3447A01, Rev. F

Payload data—This is the application’s user communication data which is sent over the radio network. It is the transfer of payload data that is the primary purpose of the radio communications network.

Point-Multipoint System—A radio communications network or system designed with a central control station that exchanges data with a number of remote locations equipped with terminal equipment.

Poll—A request for data issued from the host computer (or master PLC) to a remote radio.

PLC—Programmable Logic Controller. A dedicated microprocessor configured for a specific application with discrete inputs and outputs. It can serve as a host or as an RTU.

Programmable Logic Controller—See PLC.

Remote (Station)—A radio in a network that communicates with an

associated master station.

Remote Terminal Unit—See RTU.

Redundant Operation—A station arrangement where two transceivers

and two power supplies are available for operation, with automatic switchover in case of a failure.

RTU—Remote Terminal Unit. A data collection device installed at a remote radio site. An internal RTU simulator is provided with the transceiver to isolate faults to either the external RTU or the radio.

SCADA—Supervisory Control And Data Acquisition. An overall term for the functions commonly provided through an MAS radio system.

Standing Wave Ratio—See SWR.

Supervisory Control And Data Acquisition—See SCADA.

SWR—Standing Wave Ratio. A parameter related to the ratio between

forward transmitter power and the reflected power from the antenna system. As a general rule, reflected power should not exceed 10% of the forward power (≈ 2:1 SWR).

3.0 INSTALLATION

There are three main requirements for installing the transceiver—adequate and stable primary power, a good antenna system, and the correct data connections between the transceiver and the data device. Figure 5 shows a typical remote station arrangement.

MDS 05-3447A01, Rev. F MDS 1710A/C and MDS 2710A/C/D 33

7.0 TECHNICAL REFERENCE

7.1 Transceiver Specifications

TRANSMITTER SYSTEM SPECIFICATION

Operating Frequency: See Transmitter Specifications

Frequency Stability: ±1.5 ppm

Adjacent Channel Power: –65 dBc (MDS 1710A/2710A)

–60 dBc (MDS 1710C/2710C) –55 dBc (MDS 2710D)

Carrier Power Accuracy: ±2 dB

RECEIVER SYSTEM SPECIFICATION

Operating Frequency: See Receiver Specifications

Maximum Usable Sensitivity: –111 dBm for 1 x 10

-6

BER

Co-Channel Rejection: –12 dB

DATA CHARACTERISTICS

Signaling Standard: EIA-232

Connector: DB-25 Female

Data Interface Rates: 110 bps to 38.4 kbps1200, 2400, 4800, 9600,

19200, 38400 bps—asynchronous

Data Latency: 10 ms maximum, including RTS/CTS delay

Byte Length: 10 or 11 bits

TRANSMITTER

Frequency Range: 130-174 MHz (MDS 1710A/C)

216-220 MHz (MDS 2710 A/C) FCC 220-240 MHz (MDS 2710A/C) 220-222 MHz (MDS 2710D) FCC

See Figure 4 on Page 4 for detailed listing

Modulation Type: Binary CPFSK

Carrier Power: 0.1 Watts to 5 Watts @13.8 Vdc

Duty Cycle: Continuous

Output Impedance: 50 ohms

Frequency Stability: MDS 1710 ±1.0 ppm

MDS 2710 ±1.5 ppm

Channel Spacing: 6.25 kHz steps (MDS 1710A/C and 2710A/C)

5.0 kHz steps (MDS 2710D)

6.25 kHz (MDS 1710A/C @ 130-174 MHz)

Transmitter Spurious Radiated Emissions: –57 dBm, 30 MHz to 1 GHz

–47 dBm, 1 GHz to 12.5 GHz

Harmonics:

2nd harmonic: 57 dBc

3rd harmonic & higher: 57 dBc

Time-out Timer: 30 seconds (default). Selectable with TOT

command

Transmitter Keying: Data activated or RTS

32 MDS 1710A/C and MDS 2710A/C/D MDS 05-3447A01, Rev. F

Minor Alarms—report conditions that, under most circumstances will not prevent transceiver operation. This includes out-of-tolerance conditions, baud rate mismatches, etc. The cause of these alarms should be investigated and corrected to prevent eventual system failure.

Event Code Definitions

Table 8 contains a listing of all event codes that may be reported by the

transceiver.

Table 8. Event Codes

Event Code

Event Class Description

01 Major Improper software detected for this radio model.

02 Major The model number of the transceiver is unprogrammed.

04 Major One or both of the internal programmable synthesizer loops is

reporting an out-of-lock condition.

06 Major An unrecoverable fault was detected on the A-to-D chip. The

radio will not receive data.

07 Major One or more of the radio’s internal voltage regulators is

reporting a failure. The radio will not operate.

08 Major The system is reporting that it has not been calibrated. Factory

calibration is required for proper radio operation.

09 -- Not used.

10 Major The internal microcontroller was unable to properly program

the system to the appropriate EEPROM defaults. A hardware problem may exist.

11 -- Not used.

12 Major Receiver time-out. No data received within the specified

receiver time-out time.

13 Major Transmitter time-out. The radio was keyed for a duration

exceeding the time-out timer setting. (This alarm clears the next time the radio keys.)

14–15 -- Not used.

16 Minor Not used.

17 Minor A data parity fault has been detected on the DATA

INTERFACE connector. This usually indicates a parity setting mismatch between the radio and the RTU.

18 Minor A data framing error has been detected on the DATA

INTERFACE connector. This may indicate a baud rate mismatch between the radio and the RTU.

19–24 -- Not used.

25 Minor The 5.6 volt power regulator is out-of-tolerance. If the error is

excessive, operation may fail.

26 Minor The DC input voltage is out-of-tolerance. If the voltage is too

far out of tolerance, operation may fail.

27, 28 -- Not used

31 Minor The transceiver’s internal temperature is approaching an

out-of-tolerance condition. If the temperature drifts outside of the recommended operating range, system operation may fail.

MDS 05-3447A01, Rev. F MDS 1710A/C and MDS 2710A/C/D 9

Invisible place holder

Figure 5. Typical Remote Station Arrangement

3.1 Installation Steps

Below are the basic steps for installing the transceiver. In most cases, these steps alone are sufficient to complete the installation. More detailed explanations appear at the end of these steps.

1. Mount the transceiver to a stable surface using the brackets supplied with the radio.

2. Install the antenna and antenna feedline for the station. Preset directional antennas in the desired direction.

3. Connect the data equipment to the transceiver’s

DATA INTERFACE

connector. Use only the required pins for the application—Do not use a fully pinned (25 conductor) cable. Basic applications may require only the use of Pin 2 (transmit data—TXD), Pin 3 (Received Data—RXD) and Pin 7 (signal ground). The radio can be keyed with the use of the

DATAKEY command.

Additional connections may be required for some installations. Refer to the complete list of pin functions provided in Table 4 on

page 14.

4. Measure and install the primary power for the radio. The red wire on the power cable is the positive lead; the black is negative.

13.8 VDC POWER

CABLE

13.8 VDC

2.5 A (Minimum) POWER SUPPLY

REMOTE TERMINAL UNIT

ANTENNA SYSTEM

LOW-LOSS FEEDLINE

RADIO

TRANSCEIVER

10 MDS 1710A/C and MDS 2710A/C/D MDS 05-3447A01, Rev. F

NOTE: Use the radio in negative ground systems only.

5. Set the radio conﬁguration. The transceiver is designed for quick installation with a minimum of software conﬁguration required in most cases. The selections that must be made or veriﬁed for new installations are:

• Transmit frequency

• Receive frequency

The operating frequencies are not set at the factory unless they were speciﬁed at the time of order. Determine the transmit and receive frequencies to be used, and follow the steps below to program them.

6. Connect a hand-held terminal (HHT) to the

DIAG. connector. When

the HHT beeps, press to receive the ready “>” prompt.

• Set the operating frequencies using the

TX xxx.xxxxx (transmit) and

RX xxx.xxxxx (receive) commands.

• Press after each command. After programming, the HHT reads PROGRAMMED OK to indicate successful entry.

• Set other transceiver parameters as required. A complete list of transceiver commands is provided in Section 5.0, TRANSCEIVER

PROGRAMMING.

ENTER

MDS 05-3447A01, Rev. F MDS 1710A/C and MDS 2710A/C/D 31

• The correct interface between the transceiver and the connected data equipment (correct cable wiring, proper data format, timing, etc.)

6.1 LED Indicators

The LED status indicators are an important troubleshooting tool and should be checked whenever a problem is suspected. Table 5 on page 16 describes the function of each status LED.

6.2 Event Codes

When an alarm condition exists, the transceiver creates a code that can be read on an HHT connected to the

DIAG. port. These codes can be very

helpful in resolving many system difficulties. Refer to Table 8 for a definition of the event codes.

Checking for Alarms—STAT command

To check for alarms, enter

STAT on the HHT. If no alarms exist, the mes-

sage

NO ALARMS PRESENT appears at the top of the display (Figure 11).

Invisible place holder

Figure 11. HHT Display in Response to STAT Command

If an alarm does exist, a two-digit alarm code (00–31) is displayed and the event is identified as a Major or Minor Alarm. A brief description of the alarm is also given.

If more than one alarm exists, the word

MORE appears at the bottom of

the screen. To view additional alarms, press .

Major Alarms vs. Minor Alarms

Major Alarms—report serious conditions that generally indicate a hardware failure, or other abnormal condition that will prevent (or seriously degrade) further operation of the transceiver. Major alarms generally indicate the need for factory repair. Contact MDS for further assistance.

ENTER

30 MDS 1710A/C and MDS 2710A/C/D MDS 05-3447A01, Rev. F

TOT [1-255, ON, OFF]

This command sets or displays the transmitter Time-out Timer value (1–255 seconds), as well as the timer status (

ON or OFF). If the timer is

on, and the radio remains keyed for a longer duration than the

TOT value,

the transmitter is automatically unkeyed.

When this happens, the radio must be commanded back to an unkeyed state before a new keying command is accepted. The default timer value is 30 seconds.

TX [xxx.xxxxx]

This command selects or displays the radio’s transmit frequency in MHz. The frequency step size is 6.25 kHz for the MDS 2710A/C and

5.0 kHz for the MDS 2710D.

If the customer frequency has not been programmed at the factory, a default frequency will be programmed in the radio near the center of the frequency band.

UNIT [10000...65000]

This command selects or displays the radio’s unit address. The factory default setting is the last four digits of the transceiver’s serial number. The unit address is used in network diagnostics. See MDS’ Network-Wide Diagnostics System Handbook (MDS P/N 05-3467A01) for more information.

6.0 TROUBLESHOOTING

Successful troubleshooting of the radio system is not difficult, but it requires a logical approach. It is best to begin troubleshooting at the master station, as the rest of the system depends on the master for polling commands. If the master station has problems, the operation of the entire network can be compromised.

It is good practice to start by checking the simple things. For proper operation, all radios in the network must meet these basic requirements:

• Adequate and stable primary power. The radio contains an internal self-resetting fuse (4A). Remove and re-apply primary power to reset.

• Secure connections (RF, data and power)

• An efficient and properly aligned antenna system with a good received signal strength (at least –90 dBm). It is possible for a system to operate with weaker signals, but reliability will be degraded.

• Proper programming of the transceiver’s operating parameters (see Section 5.0, TRANSCEIVER PROGRAMMING).

MDS 05-3447A01, Rev. F MDS 1710A/C and MDS 2710A/C/D 11

3.2 Transceiver Mounting

Figure 6 shows the mounting dimensions of the transceiver.

Invisible place holder

Figure 6. Transceiver Mounting Dimensions

3.3 Antennas and Feedlines

Antennas

The transceiver can be used with a number of antennas. The exact style depends on the physical size and layout of the radio system. A directional Yagi (Figure 7) or corner reflector antenna is generally recommended at remote sites to minimize interference to and from other users. Antennas of this type are available from several manufacturers.

8.5"

216 mm

1.75"

4.44 CM

6.63"

168 mm

2.75" 70 mm

7.25" 184 mm

ALTERNATE

POSITION

5.625"

143 mm

2.25" 57 mm

2.0" 50 mm

12 MDS 1710A/C and MDS 2710A/C/D MDS 05-3447A01, Rev. F

Invisible place holder

Figure 7. Typical Yagi Antenna (mounted to mast)

Feedlines

The selection of antenna feedline is very important. Poor quality cables should be avoided as they will result in power losses that may reduce the range and reliability of the radio system.

Table 3 shows the losses that will occur when using various lengths and

types of cable at 200 MHz. Losses at 130-174 MHz will be slightly lower. Regardless of the type of cable used, it should be kept as short as possible to minimize signal loss

† Cable loss slightly lower at 130-174 MHz.

3.4 Power Connection

The transceiver can be operated from any well-filtered 10.5 to 16 Vdc power source. The power supply should be capable of providing at least

2.5 amperes of continuous current.

The red wire on the power cable is the positive lead; the black is negative.

NOTE: The radio is designed for use only in negative ground systems.

Table 3. Length vs. Loss in Coaxial Cables at 200 MHz

†

Cable Type

3 Meters

(10 Feet)

15 Meters

(46 Feet)

30 Meters

(91 Feet)

150 Meters

(525 Feet)

RG-8A/U 0.32 dB 1.6 dB 3.2 dB 16 dB

1/2 inch HELIAX

0.10 dB 0.49 dB 0.98 dB 4.9 dB

7/8 inch HELIAX

0.05 dB 0.27 dB 0.54 dB 2.7 dB

1-1/4 inch HELIAX

0.04 dB 0.20 dB 0.40 dB 2.0 dB

1-5/8 inch HELIAX

0.03 dB 0.17 dB 0.33 dB 1.65 dB

MDS 05-3447A01, Rev. F MDS 1710A/C and MDS 2710A/C/D 29

SHOW [DC, PORT, PWR]

The

SHOW command displays different types of information based on

the command variables. The different parameters are:

•

DC—Display DC input/output voltages

•

PORT—Display the connector port (RJ-11 or DB-25) that is active

for diagnostics and control.

•

PWR—Display RF power output

SNR

This command continuously displays the signal-to-noise ratio of the received signal expressed in dB, until you press the Enter key. As used in this guide, the signal-to-noise measurement is based upon the signal level following equalization, for received frames.

The SNR is an indication of the received signal quality. The SNR indication ranges from 10 dB to 33 dB. A value of 10 dB represents a very poor signal. A value of 24 dB represents a very good signal.

When the SNR command is used, it causes the

DIAG. port to enter an

update mode, and the signal-to-noise ratio is updated and redisplayed every 2 seconds. The SNR continuously updates until the key is pressed.

SREV

This command displays the software revision level of the transceiver firmware.

STAT

This command displays the current alarm status of the transceiver.

If no alarms exist, the message

NO ALARMS PRESENT appears at the top

of the HHT display.

If an alarm does exist, a two-digit code (00–31) is displayed and the alarm is identified as “Major” or “Minor.” A brief description of the alarm code is also given.

If more than one alarm exists, the word

MORE appears at the bottom of

the screen and additional alarms are viewed by pressing the key. Detailed descriptions of event codes are provided in Table 8 on

page 32.

TEMP

This command displays the internal temperature of the transceiver in degrees Celsius.

ENTER

28 MDS 1710A/C and MDS 2710A/C/D MDS 05-3447A01, Rev. F

RSSI

This command continuously displays the radio’s Received Signal Strength Indication (RSSI) in dBm units, until you press the Enter key. Incoming signal strengths from –50 dBm to –120 dBm can be read.

RTU [ON/OFF/0-80]

This command re-enables or disables the radio’s internal RTU simulator, which runs with MDS’ proprietary polling programs (poll.exe and rsim.exe). The internal RTU simulator is available whenever a radio has diagnostics enabled. This command also sets the RTU address that the radio will respond to.

The internal RTU can be used for testing system payload data or pseudo bit error rate testing. It can also be helpful in isolating a problem to either the external RTU or the radio.

RX [xxx.xxxxx]

This command selects or displays the radio’s receive frequency in MHz. The frequency step size is 6.25 kHz for the MDS 2710A/C and 5.0 kHz for the MDS 2710D.

If the customer frequency has not been programmed at the factory, a default frequency will be programmed in the radio near the center of the frequency band.

RXTOT [NONE, 1-255]

The

RXTOT command selects or displays the receive time-out timer value

in minutes. This timer triggers an alarm (event 12) if data is not detected within the specified time.

Entering the

RXTOT command without a parameter displays the timer

value in minutes. Entering the

RXTOT command with a parameter

ranging from 0 to 255 resets the timer in minutes. Entering the

RXTOT

command with the parameter

NONE disables the timer.

SCD [0-255]

This command displays or changes the soft-carrier dekey delay in milliseconds.

This timer specifies how long to wait after the removal of the keying signal before actually releasing the transmitter. A value of 0 milliseconds will unkey the transmitter immediately after the removal of the keying signal.

SER

This command displays the radio’s serial number as recorded at the factory.

MDS 05-3447A01, Rev. F MDS 1710A/C and MDS 2710A/C/D 13

3.5 Data Interface Connections

The transceiver’s DATA INTERFACE connector is used to connect the transceiver to an external DTE data terminal that supports the EIA-232 (formally RS-232) format. The transceiver supports asynchronous data rates of up to 38400 bps. The data rate at the

DATA INTERFACE connector

may differ from the data rate used over the air.

Table 4 lists each pin on the

DATA INTERFACE connector and describes

its function.

Do not use a 25 wire (fully pinned) cable for connection to the

DATA

INTERFACE

connector. Use only the required pins for the application. Damage may result if improper connections are made. Typical applications require the use of only Pins 1 through 8 for EIA-232 signaling.

3.6 Using the Radio’s Sleep Mode

In some installations, such as at solar-powered sites, it may be necessary to keep the transceiver’s power consumption to an absolute minimum. This can be accomplished using the Sleep Mode. In this mode, power consumption is reduced to less than 16 milliamperes (nominal).

Sleep mode can be enabled under RTU control by asserting a ground (or EIA-232 low) on Pin 12 of the radio’s

DATA INTERFACE connector.

When Pin 12 is opened (or an EIA-232 high is asserted), the radio will be ready to receive data within 75 milliseconds.

All normal functions are suspended while the radio is in sleep mode. The

PWR LED will be off, except for a quick flash every 5 seconds.

Sleep Mode Example

The following example describes Sleep Mode implementation in a typical system. Using this information, you should be able to configure a system that will meet your own particular needs.

Example:

Suppose you need communications to each remote site only once per hour. Program the RTU to raise an EIA-232 line once each hour (DTR for example) and wait for a poll and response before lowering it again. Connect this line to Pin 12 of the radio’s

DATA INTERFACE connector. This will allow each RTU to

be polled once per hour with a significant savings in power consumption.

CAUTION

USE

ONLY REQUIRED

PINS

14 MDS 1710A/C and MDS 2710A/C/D MDS 05-3447A01, Rev. F

Table 4. DATA INTERFACE Connector Pinouts

Pin Number

Input/ Output Pin Description

1--Protective Ground. Connects to ground (negative supply

potential) on the radio’s PC board and chassis.

2INTXD—Transmitted Data. Accepts TX data from the

connected device.

3 OUT RXD—Received Data. Outputs received data to the

connected device.

4INRTS—Request-to-Send Input. Keys the transmitter when

RTS is at logic high.

5 OUT CTS—Clear-to-Send Output. Goes “high” after the

programmed CTS delay time has elapsed (DCE) or keys an attached radio when RF data arrives (CTS KEY).

6 OUT DSR—Data Set Ready. Provides a +6 Vdc DSR signal

through a 2.5 kΩ resistor.

7--Signal Ground. Connects to ground (negative supply

potential) at radio’s PC board.

8 OUT DCD—Data Carrier Detect. Goes “high” when the modem

detects a data carrier from the master station.

9INTransmit Audio Input. Connects to the audio output of an

external (AFSK) modem. The input impedance is 600 Ω. Use Pin 7 for the modem’s return lead.

10 OUT RUS—Receiver Unsquelched Sensor. Not used in most

installations, but is available as a convenience. Provides +8 Vdc through a 1 kΩ resistor whenever the receiver squelch is open, and drops to less than 1 Vdc when the squelch is closed.

11 OUT Receive Audio Output. Connects to the audio input of an

external (AFSK) modem. The output impedance is 600 Ω, and the level is factory set to suit most installations. Use Pin 7 for the modem’s return lead.

12 IN Radio Inhibit (Sleep). A ground on this pin places the

radio into the “sleep” mode. It turns off most circuits in the radio, including transmit, receive, modem and diagnostic functions. This allows for greatly reduced power consumption, yet preserves the radio’s ability to be quickly brought online.

13 -- Do not connect—Reserved for future use.

14 IN PTT—Push to Talk. This line is used to key the radio with

an active-high signal of +5 Vdc.

15 OUT Remote RTU Reset. Do not connect—Reserved for future

use.

16 IN PTT

—Push to Talk. This line is used to key the radio with

an active-low signal of 0 Vdc.

17 -- Do not connect—Reserved for future use.

18 IN/OUT Accessory Power. Unregulated Input/Output. Provides a

source of input power for low current accessories. Excessive drain on this connection will trip self-resetting fuse F1 on the transceiver PC board. The voltage at this pin will match the input voltage to the transceiver.

MDS 05-3447A01, Rev. F MDS 1710A/C and MDS 2710A/C/D 27

KEY

This command activates the transmitter. See also the

DKEY command.

MODEL

This command displays the radio’s model number code.

MODEM [xxxx, NONE]

This command selects the radio’s modem characteristics. Enter 9600 or 3200 for digital operation, or enter NONE to select analog operation. For MDS 1710 digital operation the proper settings are

9600 for the MDS

2710A,

19200 for the MDS 1710C.

For MDS 2710 operation, the proper settings are

3200 for the MDS

2710D,

9600 for the MDS 2710A, and 19200 for the MDS 2710C.

OWM [XXX...]

This is a command to display or program an owner’s message. To program the owner’s message, type

OWM then the message, followed by

To display the owner’s message, type

OWM then . The owner’s

message appears on the display.

OWN [XXX...]

This is a command to display or program an owner’s name. To program the owner’s name, type

OWN then the name, followed by .

To display the owner’s name, type OWN then . The owner’s name appears on the display.

PTT [0–255]

This command sets or displays the key-up delay in milliseconds.

This timer specifies how long to wait after the radio receives a key signal from either the PTT or RTS lines (on the

DATA INTERFACE), before actu-

ally keying the radio.

PWR [20–37]

NOTE: This function may not be available, depending on certification

requirements in a particular country.

This command displays or sets the desired RF forward output power setting of the radio. The

PWR command parameter is specified in dBm and

can range from 20 through 37. The default setting is 37 dBm (5 watts). To read the actual (measured) power output of the radio, use the

SHOW

PWR

command. A dBm-to-watts conversion chart is provided in

Section 7.6.

ENTER

26 MDS 1710A/C and MDS 2710A/C/D MDS 05-3447A01, Rev. F

DUMP

This command displays all the programmed settings of the radio. The HHT display is too small to list all the command settings at one time. Therefore, this command is most useful if the command is issued from a computer or full-screen terminal.

HREV

This command displays the transceiver’s hardware revision level if it has been programmed at the factory.

INIT

The

INIT command is used to re-initialize the radio’s operating parame-

ters to the factory defaults. This may be helpful when trying to resolve configuration problems that may have resulted from the entry of one or more improper command settings. Entry of this command allows you to get back to a known working state. The following changes to the radio are made when

INIT is entered:

• CTS is set to 0

•

DATAKEY is set to ON

• DEVICE is set to DCE

• PTT is set to 0

•

SCD is set to 0

•

TOT is set to 30 seconds and set to ON

• PWR is set to +37 dBm (5 watts)

All other commands stay at their previously established settings.

INIT [2710]

This command sets the transceiver for operation outside the MDS model P-20 chassis by setting the following parameters as shown.

ASENSE ACTIVE HI

AMASK FFFF FFFF

(assert alarm output on all alarms)

RXTOT NONE (receive time-out timer disabled)

This command can be used subsequent to using the

INIT 2720 command

to restore the standard transceiver defaults.

INIT [2720]

This command sets the transceiver for operation inside the model P-20 chassis by setting the following parameters as shown.

ASENSE ACTIVE LO

AMASK FFFF 0000

(trigger on major alarms)

RXTOT 20 (20 minute time-out timer)

MDS 05-3447A01, Rev. F MDS 1710A/C and MDS 2710A/C/D 15

Invisible place holder

4.0 OPERATION

In-service operation of the transceiver is completely automatic. Once the unit has been properly installed and configured, operator actions are limited to observing the front panel LED status indicators for proper operation.

If all parameters are correctly set, operation of the radio can be started by following these steps:

1. Apply DC power to the transceiver.

2. Observe the LED status panel for the proper indications (Table 5).

3. If not done earlier, reﬁne the antenna heading of the station to maxi-

mize the received signal strength (RSSI) from the master station.

Use the

RSSI command from an HHT connected to the radio’s DIAG.

connector.—See Section 5.0, TRANSCEIVER PROGRAMMING. This can also be done with a DC voltmeter as described in

Section 4.2, RSSI Measurement.

19 OUT 9.9 Vdc Regulated Output. Provides a source of

regulated voltage at 100 mA for low power accessories.

20 -- Do not connect—Reserved for future use.

21 OUT RSSI—Received Signal Strength Indication. A DC

voltmeter may be connected to this pin to read the relative strength of the incoming signal. Figure 8 is a chart showing RSSI vs. DC voltage.

22 -- Do not connect—Reserved for future use.

23 IN Diagnostic Channel Enable. A ground on this pin causes

the radio’s microcontroller to open the DB-25 DATA INTERFACE for diagnostics and control instead of the normal RJ-11 DIAG. connection.

24 -- Do not connect—Reserved for future use.

25 OUT Alarm. A logic low (less than 0.5 volts) on this pin indicates

normal operation. A logic high (greater than 4 volts) indicates that some alarm condition is present. This pin can be used as an alarm output, provided the internal series resistance of 1 kΩ is considered.

Table 4. DATA INTERFACE Connector Pinouts (Continued)

Pin Number

Input/ Output Pin Description

16 MDS 1710A/C and MDS 2710A/C/D MDS 05-3447A01, Rev. F

4.1 LED Indicators

Table 5 describes the function of each status LED.

4.2 RSSI Measurement

As an alternative to using an HHT, the radio’s received signal strength (RSSI) may be read with a DC voltmeter connected to Pin 21 of the

DATA

INTERFACE connector. Figure 8 shows the relationship between

received signal level and the DC voltage on Pin 21 of the

DATA INTER-

FACE connector. (Note: Readings are not accurate for signals stronger

than –50 dBm.)

Invisible place holder

Figure 8. RSSI vs. Vdc (Typical)

PWR DCD TXD RXD

Table 5. LED Status Indicators

LED Name Description

PWR • Continuous—Power is applied to the radio, no problems detected.

• Rapid flash (five times-per-second)—Fault indication.

• Flashing once every 5 seconds—Radio is in Sleep mode.

DCD • Flashing—Indicates the radio is receiving intermittent data frames.

• Continuous—Radio is receiving a data signal from a continuously keyed radio.

TXD An EIA-232 mark signal is being received at the DATA INTERFACE

connector.

RXD An EIA-232 mark signal is being sent out from the DATA INTERFACE

connector.

2.5

3.5

–110

–90

–70

–50

+ DC VOLTS (PIN 21)

SIGNAL LEVEL (dBm)

4.5

5.0

MDS 05-3447A01, Rev. F MDS 1710A/C and MDS 2710A/C/D 25

The default selection is DCE. In this mode, CTS will go high following RTS, subject to the CTS programmable delay time. If the

DATAKEY com-

mand is set to

ON, keying can be stimulated by the input of characters at

the data port. Hardware flow control is implemented by signaling the CTS line if data arrives faster than it can be buffered and transmitted.

CTS KEY is selected, the radio is assumed to be controlling another

radio. The RTS line is ignored and the CTS line is used as a keyline control for the other radio. CTS is asserted immediately following the receipt of RF data, but data will not be sent out the

DATA INTERFACE port

until after the CTS programmable delay time has expired. (This gives the other radio time to key.)

DKEY

This command deactivates the transmitter after it has been keyed with the KEY command.

DLINK [ON/OFF/xxxx]

This command is used to configure the local diagnostic link protocol used in network-wide diagnostics.

Entering

DLINK ON enables the diagnostic link. Entering DLINK OFF dis-

ables the diagnostic link.

To change the diagnostic link, enter

DLINK followed by one of the fol-

lowing baud rates: 1200, 2400, 4800, 9600, 19200 (default).

DMGAP [xx]

The DMGAP command sets the amount of time in milliseconds to wait after the receipt of a character before interpreting the next received character as the start of a new message. When data port baud rates are slow, the gap between characters within a poll may be so long that the radio interprets the next character as the start of a new poll. When diagnostics is being performed using passive messaging (see Performing Net-

work-Wide Remote Diagnostics on page 34), this command may be used

to change this behavior.

DTYPE [NODE/ROOT]

This command establishes the local radio as a root radio or node radio for network-wide diagnostics. Entering

DTYPE NODE configures the

radio as a node radio. Entering

DTYPE ROOT configures the radio as a root

radio. Entering the

DTYPE command alone displays the current setting.

See “Performing Network-Wide Remote Diagnostics” on page 34. Two associated commands are

GATE and PEER. See MDS’ Network-Wide

Diagnostics System Handbook (MDS P/N 05-3467A01) for details.

24 MDS 1710A/C and MDS 2710A/C/D MDS 05-3447A01, Rev. F

If data buffering is ON, the radio operates in seamless mode. Data bytes will be sent over the air as quickly as possible, but the receiver buffers (stores) the data until enough bytes have arrived to cover worst-case gaps in transmission. This mode of operation is required for protocols such as MODBUS™ that do not allow gaps in their data transmission.

Note that seamless mode (

BUFF ON) is intended only for applications

where the transmitter’s baud rate is greater than or equal to the receiver’s baud rate. Adherence to this rule is left up to the user.

CKEY [ON–OFF]

The

CKEY command enables or disables the continuously-keyed func-

tion of the radio. When

CKEY is set to ON, the radio is continuously

keyed.

CTS [0–255]

The

CTS (clear-to-send) command selects or displays the timer value

associated with the CTS line response. The command parameter ranges from 0 to 255 milliseconds.

For DCE operation, the timer specifies how long to wait after the RTS line goes high, before the radio asserts CTS and the DTE can transmit the data. A CTS value of zero keys the radio and asserts the CTS line immediately after the RTS line goes high.

For CTS Key operation (see

DEVICE command), the timer specifies how

long to wait after asserting the CTS, before sending data out the

DATA

INTERFACE port. A timer value of zero means that data will be sent out

the data port without imposing a key-up delay. (Other delays may be present based on selected radio operating parameters.)

DATAKEY [ON, OFF]

The

DATAKEY command sets or displays the ability of the radio to key the

transmitter as data is received at the

DATA INTERFACE connector.

Asserting RTS keys the radio regardless of this command setting.

DATAKEY is set to ON, the radio will key when a full data-character is

received at the transceiver’s

DATA INTERFACE connector. If DATAKEY is

set to

OFF, the radio needs to be keyed by asserting either the RTS or

PTT signal or with the

CKEY or KEY command.

DEVICE [DCE, CTS KEY]

The

DEVICE command sets or displays the device behavior of the radio.

The command parameter is either

DCE or CTS KEY.

MDS 05-3447A01, Rev. F MDS 1710A/C and MDS 2710A/C/D 17

5.0 TRANSCEIVER PROGRAMMING

Programming and control of the transceiver is performed through the radio’s RJ-11

DIAG. (Diagnostics) connector with an MDS Hand-Held

Terminal (MDS P/N 02-1501A01). This section contains a reference chart (Table 7) followed by detailed descriptions for each user command.

NOTE: In addition to HHT control, Windows-based software is avail-

able (MDS P/N 03-3156A01) to allow diagnostics and programming using a personal computer. An installation booklet and on-line instructions are included with the software. Contact MDS for ordering information.

5.1 Hand-Held Terminal Connection & Startup

This section gives basic information for connecting and using the MDS Hand-Held Terminal. For more information about the terminal, refer also to the instructions included with each HHT kit.

The steps below assume that the HHT has been configured for use with the transceiver (80 character screen display). If the HHT was previously used with a different model transceiver, or if its default settings have been changed, refer to Section 5.2, Hand-Held Terminal Setup for setup details.

Follow these steps to connect the HHT:

1. Connect the HHT’s coiled cord to the

DIAG. (RJ-11) jack on the

radio as shown in Figure 9. This automatically places the radio into the control and programming mode.

As an alternative, the

DATA INTERFACE (DB-25) connector may be

used for programming instead of the

DIAG. jack. With this arrange-

ment, Pin 23 of the HHT cable must be grounded to enable the diagnostic channel. (See Table 4.)

2. When the HHT is connected, it runs through a brief self-check, ending with a beep. After the beep, press to obtain the ready “>” prompt.

ENTER

18 MDS 1710A/C and MDS 2710A/C/D MDS 05-3447A01, Rev. F

Invisible place holder

Figure 9. Hand-Held Terminal Connected to the Transceiver

5.2 Hand-Held Terminal Setup

The following is a set of instructions for re-initializing an HHT for use with the transceiver. These steps may be required if the HHT was previously used with a different radio, or if the HHT default settings have been inadvertently altered.

1. Plug the HHT into the

DIAG. connector. Enable the setup mode by

pressing the , and keys in sequence. The display shown in Figure 10 appears.

Invisible place holder

Figure 10. HHT Setup Display

2. The ﬁrst of 15 menu items is displayed. Settings are reviewed by pressing the NEXT function controlled by the key. P arameter set-

tings are changed by pressing the ROLL function controlled by the

key.

ANTENNA

13.8 VDC

–

CTRL

–

)

(

SHIFT

ESC

BKSP

ACE

ENTER

SHIFT

CTRL

SPACE

FF1FFF

MDS 05-3447A01, Rev. F MDS 1710A/C and MDS 2710A/C/D 23

Each bit that is a ‘1’ identifies an associated alarm condition that can trigger the alarm output status line. Each bit that is a ‘0’ treats the associated alarm as irrelevant when deciding whether or not to assert the alarm output status line. For more information on tailoring the alarm response, contact the MDS Technical Services Department.

ASENSE [HI/LO]

The

ASENSE command sets or displays the sense of the alarm output at

Pin 25 of the

DATA INTERFACE connector.

Entering the

ASENSE command alone shows whether the alarm output is

active high or low. Entering the

ASENSE command followed by HI or LO

resets the alarm output to active high or low.

BAUD [xxxxx abc]

This command sets (or displays) the communication attributes for the

DATA INTERFACE port. It has no effect on the RJ-11 DIAG. port.

The first parameter (

xxxxx) is baud rate. Baud rate is specified in

bits-per-second (bps) and must be one of the following speeds: 110, 300, 1200, 2400, 4800, 9600, 19200, or 38400.

The second parameter of the

BAUD command (abc) is a three-character

block indicating how the data is encoded:

a = Data bits (7 or 8) b = Parity (N for None, O for Odd, E for Even) c = Stop bits (1 or 2)

The factory default setting is 4800 baud, 8 data bits, no parity, 1 stop bit (Example:

4800 8N1).

NOTE: 7N1, 8O2, and 8E2 are invalid communication settings and are

not supported by the transceiver.

BUFF [ON, OFF]

This command sets or displays the received data handling mode of the radio. The command parameter is either

ON or OFF. The default is ON.

The setting of this parameter affects the timing of how received RF data is sent out the

INTERFACE connector. Outgoing (transmitted) data is not

affected by this setting.

If data buffering is

OFF, the radio operates with the lowest possible

average latency. Data bytes are thus sent out the

INTERFACE port as soon

as an incoming RF data frame is disassembled. Average and typical latency will both be below 10 ms, but idle character gaps may be introduced into the outgoing data flow.

22 MDS 1710A/C and MDS 2710A/C/D MDS 05-3447A01, Rev. F

5.4 Detailed Command Descriptions

The only critical commands for most applications are transmit and receive frequencies (

RX xxx.xxxxx, TX xxx.xxxxx). However, proper use of

the additional commands allows you to tailor the transceiver for a specific use, or conduct basic diagnostics on the radio. This section gives more detailed information for the user commands previously listed in

Table 7.

In many cases, the commands shown here can be used in two ways. First, you can type only the command name to view the currently programmed data. Secondly, you can set or change the existing data by typing the command, followed by a space, and then the desired entry. In the list below, allowable programming variables, if any, are shown in brackets following the command name.

AMASK [0000 0000–FFFF FFFF]

The

AMASK (alarm mask) command displays or sets which events cause

the alarm output signal to be active. Normally, the mask is

FFFF FFFF,

meaning that any of the 32 possible events will activate the alarm output signal. No special configuration is required for typical applications.

Entering the

AMASK command alone displays the current setting of

alarm events in hexadecimal format.

Entering the

AMASK command followed by an eight-digit hexadecimal

number reprograms the specified events to trigger an alarm.

The eight-digit hexadecimal number used as the command parameter is used to classify up to 32 events as alarm triggers for the alarm output status line. (See Table 8 on page 32 for a list of event codes.) The hex value for the mask corresponds to the hex value for the

STAT command

(see the

STAT command description).

TEMP

Details page 29

Display the internal temperature of the radio in degrees Celsius.

TOT [1-255, ON, OFF]

Details page 30

Set or display the Time-out Timer delay in seconds.

TX [xxx.xxxxx]

Details page 30

Set or display the transmit frequency.

UNIT [10000...65000]

Details page 30

Set or display the transceiver’s unit address.

Table 7. Command summary (Continued)

Command name Function

MDS 05-3447A01, Rev. F MDS 1710A/C and MDS 2710A/C/D 19

3. Set up the HHT as listed in Table 6.

5.3 Keyboard Commands

Table 7 is a reference chart of software commands for the transceiver.

Programmable information is shown in brackets [ ] following the command name. See Section 5.4, Detailed Command Descriptions for detailed command descriptions.

Entering Commands

To enter a command, type the command, followed by an keystroke. For programming commands, the command is followed by

and the appropriate information or values, then

Here are some additional points to remember when using the HHT:

• Use the key to access numbers; press again to return to letter mode.

• Use the key to edit information or commands entries.

• The flashing square cursor ( ) indicates that letter mode is selected.

• The flashing superscript rectangular cursor ( ) indicates that number mode is selected.

Error Messages

Listed below are some possible error messages that may be encountered when using the HHT:

UNKNOWN COMMAND—The command was not recognized. Refer to the

command description for command usage information.

INCORRECT ENTRY—The command format or its associated values were

not valid. Refer to the command description for command usage information.

Table 6. HHT Operational Settings

Parameter Setting Parameter Setting

Re-init HT NO Scroll On 33rd

Baud Rate 9600 Cursor ON

Comm bits 8,1,n CRLF for CR OFF

Parity Error OFF Self Test FAST

Key Repeat OFF Key Beep ON

Echo OFF Screen Size 80

Shift Keys YES Menu Mode LONG

Ctl Chars PROCS

ENTER

SPACE

ENTER

SHIFT

ESC/BKSP

20 MDS 1710A/C and MDS 2710A/C/D MDS 05-3447A01, Rev. F

COMMAND FAILED—The command was unable to successfully complete.

This may indicate an internal software problem.

NOT PROGRAMMED—Software was unable to program the internal radio

memory or the requested item was not programmed.This is a serious internal radio error. Contact MDS for assistance.

TEXT TOO LONG—Response to OWN or OWM command when too many

characters have been entered. Refer to the command description for command usage information.

NOT AVAILABLE—The entered command or parameter was valid, but it

referred to a currently unavailable choice. Refer to the command description for command usage information.

ACCESS DENIED—The command is unavailable to the user. Refer to the

command descriptions for command information.

EEPROM FAILURE— The INIT command was unable to write to EEPROM.

This is a serious internal radio error. Contact MDS for assistance.

Table 7. Command summary

Command name Function

AMASK [0000

0000–FFFF FFFF]

Details page 22

Set or display hex code identifying which events trigger an alarm.

ASENSE [HI/LO]

Details page 23

Set or display the state of the alarm output signal to ACTIVE HI or ACTIVE LO.

BAUD [xxxxx abc]

Details page 23

Set or display the DATA INTERFACE data rate and control bits.

BUFF [ON, OFF]

Details page 23

Enables or disables the internal radio data buffer.

CTS [0–255]

Details page 24

Set or display the Clear-to-Send delay in seconds.

CKEY [ON–OFF]

Details page 24

Enables or disables the continuously keyed mode. Note: Remotes cannot receive when keyed.

DATAKEY [ON, OFF]

Details page 24

Toggles between key-on-data and key-on-RTS.

DKEY

Details page 25

Dekey the radio (transmitter OFF). This is generally a radio test command.

DLINK [ON/OFF/xxxx]

Details page 25

Configures local diagnostic link protocol.

DMGAP [xx]

Details page 25

(Diagnostics) Sets the amount of time to wait after the receipt of a character before interpreting the next received character as the start of a new message.

MDS 05-3447A01, Rev. F MDS 1710A/C and MDS 2710A/C/D 21

DTYPE [NODE/ROOT]

Details page 25

(Diagnostics) Sets up a radio as a Root or Node radio. Associated commands are GATE and PEER. (See MDS’ Network-Wide Diagnostics System Handbook (MDS P/N 05-3467A01) for details.)

DUMP

Details page 26

Display all programmable settings.

HREV

Details page 26

Display the Hardware Revision level, if programmed.

INIT

Details page 26

Set radio parameters to factory defaults.

INIT [2710]

Details page 26

Restores certain transceiver defaults before using the INIT xx20 command.

INIT [2720]

Details page 26

Configure radio for use with an MDS model P-20 chassis.

KEY

Details page 27

Key the radio (transmitter ON). This is generally used for radio testing.

MODEL

Details page 27

Display the model number of the radio.

MODEM [xxxx, NONE]

Details page 27

Set the modem characteristics of the radio.

OWM [XXX...]

Details page 27

Set or display the owner’s message.

OWN [XXX...]

Details page 27

Set or display the owner’s name.

PTT [0–255]

Details page 27

Set or display the Push-to-Talk delay in milliseconds.

PWR [20–37]

Details page 27

Set or display the transmit power setting.

RSSI

Details page 28

Display the Received Signal Strength Indication.

RTU [ON/OFF/0-80]

Details page 28

Enables or disables the radio’s internal RTU simulator and sets the RTU address.

RX [xxx.xxxxx]

Details page 28

Set or display receiver frequency.

RXTOT [NONE, 1-255]

Details page 28

Set or display the value of the receive time-out timer.

SCD [0-255]

Details page 28

Set or display the Soft-carrier Dekey delay in milliseconds.

SER

Details page 28

Display the radio serial number.

SHOW [DC, PORT, PWR]

Details page 29

Display the DC voltages, diagnostics port, and transmit power level.

SREV

Details page 29

Display the Software Revision Level.

STAT

Details page 29

Display radio status and alarms.

Table 7. Command summary (Continued)

Command name Function

Microwave Data Systems MDS 1710 A, MDS 2710A, MDS 2710D, MDS 2710C, MDS 1710 C Operation Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual