NavCom SR-7120 User Manual Rev.A

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NavCom Technology, Inc.
20780 Madrona Avenue Torrance, CA 90503 USA Tel: +1 310.381.2000 Fax: +1 310.381.2001
sales@navcomtech.com
i
www.navcomtech.com
Safari Network User Guide
Contents
Notices v
Copyright ................................................................... v
Trademarks ................................................................. v
FCC Notice ................................................................ vi
RF Exposure Compliance............................................vii
User Notice ................................................................vii
Limited Warranty ......................................................viii
Limitation of Liability.................................................. ix
International Sales...................................................... ix
Use of this Document.................................................. x
Chapter 1 Introduction .......................................... 1
System Overview ........................................................1
Applications ................................................................ 2
Unique Features ..........................................................3
System Advantages ..................................................... 5
Safari Network Components .......................................6
Radio Modules (NCU, SCU, and RU)....................... 7
Port Expander.........................................................8
Subnetwork Control Unit (SCU).............................. 9
Safari Network Services ............................................. 10
Chapter 2 Safari Network Planning......................... 1
Planning Overview ...................................................... 1
Initial Planning ............................................................ 2
Network Management Port .................................... 3
Unit IDs .................................................................. 4
NCU and SCU Radio Frequencies............................ 5
Multiple SCUs......................................................... 6
Network Services Planning .....................................7
Network Services and Channel Assignments........... 7
Channel Assignments and Bandwidth..................... 9
Ethernet Wireless LAN Service............................... 13
Data Throughput vs. Port Speed........................... 18
Data Interception Protection ................................18
Multiple NCUs...................................................... 19
Chapter 3 Installation ............................................1
Installation Overview................................................... 1
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Safety and Operational Precautions............................. 1
External Antenna Grounding .................................. 1
Power Lines ............................................................ 2
Additional Safety Cautions...................................... 3
Power Input ................................................................ 3
Providing AC Power through the Port Expander ..... 4
Option 1 ................................................................5
Option 2 ................................................................5
Providing Power through the J1 Connector ............ 7
Antenna Configuration................................................ 9
Using the External Antenna .................................... 9
Communication Ports ...............................................10
COM1.................................................................. 11
COM2.................................................................. 11
COM3.................................................................. 11
Cable Connections and Wiring.................................. 13
Radio Unit (NCU or Remote) ................................ 13
Subnetwork Control Unit (SCU)............................ 15
Chapter 4 Configuration.........................................1
HyperTerminal Program Interface................................ 1
Configuring as an NCU ............................................... 3
Configuring the network.............................................5
Bring up the Network Management Menu............. 7
Service Configuration ............................................. 8
List Services .......................................................... 11
NCU Configuration ..............................................12
NCU Port Configuration ....................................... 14
View NCU Configuration ...................................... 15
NCU Advanced Configuration .............................. 16
View Advanced Configuration ..............................18
Remote Configuration - Adding an RU.................. 19
RU Port Configuration .......................................... 20
List RUs................................................................. 24
SCU Configuration.................................................... 25
Chapter 5 Monitoring & Changes...........................1
Displaying Network Information .................................1
Current Configuration ............................................ 2
Real Time Network Usage....................................... 4
Deleting Network Components................................... 5
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Deleting a Service................................................... 5
Deleting All Services (Erasing the Service Table)...... 5
Deleting an RU .......................................................6
Deleting an SCU..................................................... 6
Deleting All Units in the Network (NCU, SCUs and
RUs) .......................................................................7
Reconfiguring NCU, RUs, and COM Ports ...................7
Reconfiguring the NCU’s Basic and Advanced
Configuration......................................................... 7
Reconfiguring the NCU Port Configuration............. 8
Reconfiguring an RU............................................... 8
Reconfiguring an RU’s Port(s) ................................. 9
Appendix A Troubleshooting ....................................1
Types of Problems....................................................... 1
If a radio is not communicating .............................. 1
If data transmission is incomplete or in error ..........5
If the Signal-to-Noise (S/N) ratio is too low.............6
Appendix B Radio Frequencies.................................. 1
Appendix C Glossary ................................................1
Appendix D Specifications......................................... 1
NCU, RU, SCU ............................................................1
Port Expander Module ................................................2
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Notices

Safari Network User Guide
P/N
96-310010-3001
Revision A October 2003
Serial Number: ______________________________________
Date Delivered: ______________________________________

Copyright

2003 by NavCom Technology, Inc.
All rights reserved. No part of this work or the computer programs described herein may be reproduced or stored or transmitted by any means, without the written permission of the copyright holders. Translation in any language is prohibited without the permission of the copyright holders.

Trademarks

The ‘find your way’, ‘NavCom Globe,’ Safari Network, and NAVCOM TECHNOLOGY logos are trademarks of NavCom Technology, Inc. All other product and brand names are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective holders.
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FCC Notice

This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a class B digital device, pursuant to part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one of more of the following measures:
Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.
Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected.
Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.
This equipment has been certified to comply with the limits for a class B computing device, pursuant to FCC Rules. In order to maintain compliance with FCC regulations, shielded cables must be used with this equipment. Operation with non-approved equipment or unshielded cables is likely to result in interference to radio and TV reception. The user is cautioned that changes and modifications made to the equipment without the approval of manufacturer could void the user’s authority to operate this equipment.
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RF Exposure Compliance

The SR-7100 complies with the FCC exposure limits. Users’ and bystanders’ heads are recommended to be a minimum of 20 cm away from the
(SSR)
transmitting antenna when used in the basic configuration. If transmitting system is modified from basic setup, check FCC regulations for compliance with exposure limits.
Spread Spectrum Radio

User Notice

NAVCOM TECHNOLOGY, INC. SHALL NOT BE RESPONSIBLE FOR ANY INACCURACIES, ERRORS, OR OMISSIONS IN INFORMATION CONTAINED HEREIN, INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO, INFORMATION OBTAINED FROM THIRD PARTY SOURCES, SUCH AS PUBLICATIONS OF OTHER COMPANIES, THE PRESS, OR COMPETITIVE DATA ORGANIZATIONS.
THIS PUBLICATION IS MADE AVAILABLE ON AN “AS IS” BASIS AND NAVCOM TECHNOLOGY, INC. SPECIFICALLY DISCLAIMS ALL ASSOCIATED WARRANTIES, WHETHER EXPRESS OR IMPLIED. IN NO EVENT WILL NAVCOM TECHNOLOGY, INC. BE LIABLE FOR DIRECT, INDIRECT, SPECIAL, INCIDENTAL, OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES IN CONNECTION WITH THE USE OF OR RELIANCE ON THE MATERIAL CONTAINED IN THIS PUBLICATION, EVEN IF ADVISED OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES. NAVCOM TECHNOLOGY, INC. RESERVES THE RIGHT TO MAKE IMPROVEMENTS OR CHANGES TO THIS PUBLICATION AND THE PRODUCTS AND SERVICES HEREIN DESCRIBED AT ANY TIME, WITHOUT NOTICE OR OBLIGATION.
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Safari Network User Guide

Limited Warranty

NavCom warrants that its products will be free from defects in material and workmanship at the time of delivery. Under this warranty, parts found to be defective in material or in workmanship will be repaired or replaced at the discretion of NavCom at no cost to the Customer, provided that the Customer returns the defective product to NavCom and pays all transportation charges, duties, and taxes associated with the return of the product. Parts replaced during the warranty period do not extend the period of the basic warranty.
This provision does not extend to any NavCom products that have been subject to misuse, accident or improper installation, maintenance or application, nor does it extend to products repaired or altered outside the NavCom production facility unless authorized in writing by NavCom.
THIS PROVISION IS EXPRESSLY ACCEPTED BY THE CUSTOMER IN LIEU OF ANY OR ALL OTHER AGREEMENTS, STATEMENTS OR REPRESENTATIONS, EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED, IN FACT OR IN LAW, INCLUDING THE IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE AND OF ALL DUTIES OR LIABILITIES OF NAVCOM TO THE CUSTOMER ARISING OUT OF THE USE OF THE GOODS, AND NO AGREEMENT OR UNDERSTANDING VARYING OR EXTENDING THE SAME WILL BE BINDING UPON NAVCOM UNLESS IN WRITING, SIGNED BY A DULY-AUTHORIZED OFFICER OF NAVCOM.
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Limitation of Liability

IN NO EVENT SHALL NAVCOM BE LIABLE FOR SPECIAL, INCIDENTAL, OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO LOSS OF PROFIT OR OPPORTUNITY. CUSTOMER’S SOLE AND EXCLUSIVE REMEDY IS STATED IN NAVCOM’S WARRANTY ACCOMPANYING THE PRODUCT. IN NO EVENT SHALL NAVCOM’S LIABILITY EXCEED THE REPAIR, REPLACEMENT OR COST OF THE SPECIFIC PRODUCT PURCHASED FROM NAVCOM.

International Sales

Products sold by NavCom, including equipment and software, may be exported from the United States only in accordance with the Export Administration Regulations. Diversion contrary to United States law is prohibited. Customer warrants and represents that it is eligible to receive Products under United States law and agrees to abide by any export or re-export restrictions imposed by NavCom or by the manufacturer or publisher of any products or software that NavCom resells.
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Use of this Document

This User Guide is intended to be used by someone familiar with the concepts of radio frequency transmitting equipment.
indicates additional information to make better use of
the product.
indicates a caution, care, and/or safety situation.
Revisions to this User Guide can be obtained in a digital format from
support.navcomtech.com
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Safari Network User Guide

Chapter 1 Introduction

The Safari Network
TM
SR-7100 System offers unique capabilities that make it an extremely versatile wireless communications solution. Whether you have a single point-to-point application or a sophisticated multi-point data network, the Safari Network can support your applications and requirements.

System Overview

The Safari Network is based on a Star topology cellular architecture. It supports simultaneous packet and circuit switched data communication. The Safari Network consists of three major components:
  Network Control Unit (NCU)
The NCU acts as the overall controller of the Safari Network, ensuring the most effective allocation of network resources, and providing a single point of control for all network components. The NCU also acts as the gateway between the Safari Network and other networking environments such as the Internet, wired LANs, and the public switched telephone network.
Subnetwork Control Units (SCUs)
Subnetwork Control Units (SCU) are used to extend the range, or circumvent line-of-sight limitations. The SCU allows the network administrator to create an additional cell that manages its associated Remote Units (RUs) through channel assignment, frame synchronization, frequency synchronization, packet assembly and packet routing. In essence, the SCU creates semi-autonomous Network under full control of the NCU.
cells within a single Safari
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Safari Network User Guide
Remote Units (RUs)
Remote Units (RUs) deployed in a Safari Network can either operate solely within the coverage area of one NCU, or roam throughout the network without losing connectivity as they move from one SCU cell to another. RUs may be utilized in both fixed or mobile environments, and offer a multitude of physical user interfaces and protocols in support of applications. These components work together in various combinations to enable the implementation of multiple network topologies.

Applications

The Safari Network meets the requirements of a number of applications, including but not limited to:
Asset management
Automatic vehicle location services
Vehicle health monitoring
Data acquisition
Machine control
Telemetry
Mobile Local Area Networking
Wireless security monitoring
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Safari Network User Guide

Unique Features

The Safari Network has many unique features to meet mobile communication needs:
Simultaneous Services
The Safari Network simultaneously supports multiple communication services, enabling network administrators to offer users a large array of communication alternatives. It can be customized according to user’s needs to provide a mix of point­to-point, broadcast, multipoint-to-multipoint, and Ethernet LAN services. The Safari Network can also be configured to simultaneously support both circuit switched and packet switched data, thereby allowing users to give priority to latency-sensitive traffic such as voice, video and streaming data, while also supporting traditional LAN traffic such as file sharing, email and web browsing.
Multiple Data Rate Selection
System data rates of 512kbs, 240kbs, and 96kbs can be chosen. This allows the flexibility of choosing a data rate specifically for the projects’ distance or throughput requirements. A lower data rate transmits a farther distance, but yields less Forward/Return bandwidth availability for the network. A higher data rate transmits a shorter distance, but yields higher bandwidth availability for the network.
Multiple Connectivity Options
Multiple ports are provided on each RU to conduct concurrent sessions of dissimilar services. Port & Protocol options for the SAFARI NETWORK are RS232/Async, RS422/Async, RS422/HDLC High Level Data Link Control, and 10BaseT/Ethernet. These user interfaces, combined with a powerful onboard microprocessor and user-selectable data rates, allow
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for multiple, simultaneous services and offer users a variety of options for connecting to the Safari Network.
Current protocols under development are Vehicle
CAN Bus, Circuit Switched Voice, USB, and Infrared serial data interfaces. These interfaces will be available in a near future release.
Dedicated Network
The Safari Network enables users to create an “always on” dedicated, private communication network for both fixed and mobile assets within a localized area. It provides network administrators with full control of all RUs, bandwidth, access, and services.
The ability to receive data from RUs at a central location allows superior management of personnel and assets. For example, productivity of field workers can be monitored to increase overall efficiency. Vehicle health information can be analyzed to predict and prevent vehicular failure.
The Safari Network provides a high degree of flexibility and control, allowing users to manage their resources effectively.
Rugged Design
The rugged design of the Safari Network components provides protection against harsh environments common to areas such as farms, construction sites, mines, and marine vessels. Units are watertight and sealed to protect against environmental hazards such as dust, moisture, vibration, and hot and cold extremes.
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Safari Network Management System
The Safari Network management system design allows those with little or no technical background to manage the overall network configuration. It is equipped with both a simple text-based configuration structure (accessible from any of the ASYNC ports), and an intuitive browser-based configuration interface accessible via the Ethernet port (this interface will be available in a near future release). Network administrators can use either method to configure, reconfigure, and manage all RUs in their Safari Network.

System Advantages

The Safari Network has several major advantages over licensed and traditional cellular radio systems:
Safari Network is a license-free, no fee system. There are no implementation delays associated with frequency coordination and license applications. There are also no costs associated with annual license fees, no monthly connection charges, and no data volume charges.
Lower transmission power utilized in the system
minimizes the DC power requirements.
The larger bandwidth available in the license-free ISM band permits the provision of data rates significantly greater than those supported by licensed and traditional systems.
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Safari Network Components

A typical Safari Network is made up of several components interfaced together in order to achieve maximum productivity and range throughout a project.
The minimum requirements for a Safari Network are one Network Control Unit (NCU), and one Remote Unit (RU). A Safari Network must have at least one NCU, and can contain as many as 400 RUs and SCUs. Multiple NCUs could be synchronized to a master NCU for simultaneous interference-free operation to improve data throughput.
The Safari Network usually consists of two modules, a Radio Module (NCU, SCU, or RU) and a Port Expander. A systems integrator could opt to interface directly to J1 and J2 without using the Safari Network Port Expander.
Radio Module
J1
COM3
COM1 & COM2
J2
Port
Expander
Figure 1-1: Safari Network Radio Module and Port Expander
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Radio Modules (NCU, SCU, and RU)

All radio modules have the same form factor for convenient mounting; however, the internal configuration differs. The radio is typically mounted outside and preferably as high as possible to provide the best coverage. Its chassis is fully sealed and protected to withstand harsh environments. A plastic radome is provided to protect the radio and optional GPS antennas against impact. The radome can be removed when externally mounted antennas are required.
Each radio supports four communication ports (COM1 to COM4). Interface to the radio is through two rugged 12­pin connectors J1 (COM3) and J2 (COM1 & COM2), as shown in Figure 1-1 on page 1-6.
The radio is available in two different models
Model # 1 with COM1 set as Ethernet
Model # 2 with COM1 set as Serial
COM1 Serial Mode possible configurations are:
RS 232 ASYNC
RS 422 ASYNC
RS 422 SYNC
COM2 Serial Mode possible configurations are:
RS 422 ASYNC
RS 422 SYNC
COM3 Serial Mode possible configurations are:
RS 232 ASYNC
TTL ASYNC for internal GPS Engine interface.
COM4 is dedicated for a CAN Bus interface.
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J
)

Port Expander

The Port Expander is used to provide a standard connector interface for access to COM1 & COM2 ports of the radio. The J2 connector of the radio module connects to the Port Expander module via a cable of up to a maximum of 300 feet.
The Port Expander is intended for installation in an
office or vehicle cab. Although rugged in construction, it is not environmentally sealed.
In the basic configuration, the Safari Network RU is externally powered through J1. The radio then passes through a regulated voltage to the Port Expander. This is typically the case where the RU is used in a mobile environment and is powered by the vehicle battery.
Alternatively, the Port Expander can supply power to the radio through the J2 connector. An optional AC-powered Active Port Expander (Figure 1-2) should be used, which converts AC to DC for operating the radio. This configuration is desirable when an AC power source is available.
5-Pin DIN Jack
External Power Source
(Optional)
COM1
DB9 (Serial)
COM1
RJ45 (Ethernet)
Figure 1-2: Safari Network AC Port Expander
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COM2
45 (Serial
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Safari Network User Guide

Subnetwork Control Unit (SCU)

The SCU allows the administrator to create additional, semi-autonomous cells in the Safari Network that are managed by the NCU. These cells may be contiguous or non-contiguous. By deploying SCUs, the administrator can circumvent line-of-sight obstacles and extend the range of the Safari Network. The SCU also controls and manages its associated RUs. The SCU directs bandwidth utilization through channel assignment, frame synchronization, frequency synchronization, packet assembly and packet routing.
Each SCU is comprised of two radio modules synchronized to operate simultaneously without degradation in performance. Each radio module has its own independent antenna (see Figure 1-3). Depending on the traffic flow, the SCU may improve the overall network data throughput. Multiple levels of SCUs can be added to the Safari Network without adversely affecting the network operation.
Figure 1-3: SCU with and without Radome
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Safari Network Services

The Safari Network provides several network services, which can be configured for single applications, or simultaneous use in multiple applications. Each service listed is associated with a basic interconnectivity diagram detailing data flow.
Remote-to-Remote
Two-way dedicated serial communication between two RUs, and the NCU.
Remote-to-NCU
Two-way dedicated serial communication between one RU and the NCU.
RU 1 RU 2
NCU
Figure 1-4: Bi-Directional NCU, RU to RU
RU 1
NCU
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Figure 1-5: Bi-Directional NCU to Single RU
Safari Network User Guide
  Broadcast from NCU
One-way serial communication from the NCU to multiple RUs.
RU 1
RU 2
Figure 1-6: NCU Broadcaster
NCU
Broadcast from Remote
Relaying of one-way serial communication input from a single RU by the NCU, out to multiple RUs on a one-way serial communication link.
RU 2
RU 1
NCU
Figure 1-7: NCU Remote Broadcaster
RU 3
RU 3
RU 4
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Multipoint Network (with return)
Two-way serial communication between multiple RUs, and the NCU via the NCU. Radios can be configured to transmit data to a specific port, or broadcast data to all units that use this service. When broadcasting data the originating radio will receive the data as well.
RU 3
RU 1 RU 2
NCU
Figure 1-8: Bi-Directional NCU Multipoint Network
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Ethernet Wireless LAN
Wireless bi-directional, full-duplex LAN capability among the RUs and the NCU using Ethernet port (COM1) of the radios. Provides an IP communication link between radios as well as a connection to the Internet via NCU.
Figure 1-9: NCU Ethernet Wireless LAN
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SCU Repeater
SCU devices may be used to create additional cells, extending the range to RUs or bypassing path obstacles.
NCU
SCU
RU 1
RU 2
Figure 1-10: SCU Repeater
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Chapter 2 Safari Network Planning

The key to successful implementation and management of your wireless Safari Network is planning—knowing in advance exactly what your requirements are, how you will make use of the network, and what settings will be required to accomplish your goals.

Planning Overview

It is recommended that this chapter be read in its
entirety before attempting to install and configure your network components.
There are several steps involved in the planning of your Safari Network:
Determine the location(s) of the RU(s), and assess the need for SCUs.
Assign Radio Unit IDs.
Determine radio frequency(s).
Determine service(s).
Determine throughput requirements for each service.
Assign Channel numbers for each service.
Determine port setup requirements.
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Initial Planning

Determine your hardware requirements based on the number of RUs you will need, the distances between each RU and the NCU. Line-of-sight limitations (i.e., physical obstructions) should be assessed. It is advisable to have the NCU located at the highest elevation point in the network in order to overcome line of sight limitations. If this is not possible, an SCU can be added to the network to compensate.
Review your communications and networking needs and perform a site survey. Draw a map of the network that indicates how many units will be required, and their locations relative to the location of the NCU.
You will need to install Subnetwork Control Units in the network if any RU:
Will be more than 14-20 miles from the NCU
(depending on data speed).
Will not have a direct line of sight to the NCU (such
as obstruction from buildings, trees, mountainous or hilly terrain, etc.).
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Figure 2-1: Safari Network
Safari Network User Guide

Network Management Port

All Safari Network functions and services are done via the Network Management Port (NMP). Choosing this port should be one of the first planning considerations. By factory default, the Safari Network radio module has COM2 set to the Network Management Port (NMP). All functions referred to in this chapter must be initiated via the NMP.
For Network Management, COM2 or COM3 should be selected. Network Management is not allowed via COM1. In order to simplify reconfiguration and diagnostics it is desirable to have a permanent connection at the NCU for Administrative functions. The port that Network Management is being initiated from can also be assigned services; however, these services will not function while the network is being administered. Chapter 4 Configuration details Network Management and Administration.
When Network Management is initiated, the
service on that port will temporarily be disabled in order to allow the administration of the network via that port. After Network Administration is complete, a power cycle will restore the port to its configured service.
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Unit IDs

Each Safari Network radio module has a serial number (physical ID), which is printed on a label attached to the unit. SCUs, which contain two radios, have two physical IDs, one for the upstream radio and one for the downstream radio.
You will need to assign a Unit ID to each radio from 100 to 600. Table 2-1 shows a typical Safari Network ID setup.
Network ID “100” is reserved for NCU only!
Radio Unit Physical ID Unit ID
NCU 0x06f12345 100
RU 0x06f28374 201
RU 0x06f03748 202
SCU
(upstream) 0x06f50726 301
(downstream) 0x06f59374 302
Table 2-1: Safari Network Unit ID Matrix
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