Phoenix Contact RAD-UHF-FL-RS232-BD/65F01, RAD-UHF-FL-RS232-BD/51F01, RAD-UHF-FL-RS232-BD/64F01, RAD-UHF-FL-RS232-BD/63F01 User Manual

User Manual

RAD-UHF-…

Wireless Radio System for PTP and PTMP Data
Communication on the UHF Band

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Designation:

Revision:

This user manual is valid for:

04/2007

INTERFACE

2313_en_A PHOENIX CONTACT

RAD-UHF-…

A

Designation Version Order No.
RAD-UHF-SL-RS232-BD A 5606857
RAD-UHF-FL-RS232-BD/64F01 A 5606114
RAD-UHF-FL-RS232-BD/63F01 A 5606858
RAD-UHF-FL-RS232-BD/51F01 A 5607055
RAD-UHF-FL-RS232-BD/65F01 A 5607056

User Manual

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RAD-UHF-…

ii PHOENIX CONTACT 2313_en_A

Please Observe the Following Notes

In order to ensure the safe use of this manual it must be READ and UNDERSTOOD before
installing or operating the products described herein.

About This Manual

The use of products desc rib ed in this man ual is ori en ted ex c lus iv el y to qu ali f ie d ins ta lle rs
and application engineers , who are familiar with the safet y concepts of wireless techno logy
and applicable standards.

Phoenix Contact accepts no liability for erroneous handling or damage to products from
Phoenix Contact or third-party products resulting from disregard of information contained
in this manual.

Explanation of Symbols Used

Throughout this ma nual, and po ssibly on the product it self, the Safe ty Alert Symbol (ANSI)
or General Warning Sign (ISO) indicates hazardous procedures or practices. Along with
the symbol a risk level indicat es the seriousnes s of the haza rd. The symbol an d associated
risk levels are indicated and defined as:

The text symbol refers to detailed sources of information (manua ls, data sheets, lite rature,
etc.) on the subjec t m att er, product, etc. This te xt al so p r ovi de s hel pfu l i nfo rma tio n f or the
orientation in the manual.

DANGER!

This indicates a haz ard ous si tua tion w hic h, i f no t av oided, will result in de ath o r serious
injury.

WARNING!

This indicates a hazardous situation which, if not avoided, could result in death o r serious
injury.

CAUTION!

This indicates a hazardous situation which, if not avoided, may result in minor or
moderate injury.

NOTE: The note symbol indicates procedures or practices that protect against product
or property damage. It may als o provide a dditional advice o n an instruc tion or the use of
the product to save time.

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2313_en_A PHOENIX CONTACT iii

Contact Information

Phoenix Contact
P.O. Box 4100
Harrisburg, PA 17111-0100

Phone [phone]
Fax [phone]
Website www.phoenixcon.com
E-mail [e-mail]
Technical Service800-322-3 225

Internet

General Terms and Conditions of Use

Phoenix Contact reserves the right to alter, correct, an d/or improve the pro ducts described
in this documentati on at its own discretio n and wit hout givin g prior noti ce, insofa r as this is
reasonable for the user. The sam e applies to any technica l changes that serve the pu rpose
of technical progress.

Please note that the supplied documentation is product-specific documentation only and
that you are responsible for checking the suitability and intended use of the products in
your specific application, in particular with regard to observing the applicable standards
and regulations.

Although Phoenix Contact ma ke s every effort to ensure that the information conten t is ac ­curate, up-to-date, and state-of-th e-art, techn ical inacc uracies and/ or printing errors in the
information cannot be ruled out. PhoenixCont act does not offer any gu ara ntee s as to the
reliability, accuracy or completeness of the information.

Statement of Legal Authority

This manual, includ ing a ll ill ustrati ons c ontai ned he rein, i s cop yright protec ted. Us e of th is
manual by any third party is forbi dden. Repro duction, transl ation, and pu blic discl osure, as
well as electronic and photographi c archiving or alteration requir es the express written con­sent of Phoenix Contact. Violators are liable for damages.

Third-party products are al w ays na me d w itho ut ref eren ce to patent rights. The existenc e
of such rights shall not be excluded.

Up-to-date information on Phoenix Contact products can be found on the Internet at:

www.phoenixcontact.com

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iv PHOENIX CONTACT 2313_en_A

Limited Warranty

Phoenix Contact warrants to Customer that the equipment purchased shall be free from
defects in material and workma nship under normal use and serv ice for a period of one year
from shipment.

Written notice and a n explanation of th e circumstances of any claim that the eq uipment has
proved defective in material or workmanship shall be given promptly by the Customer to
Phoenix Contact.

Phoenix Contact will not be liable for any misuse, improper operations, improper installa­tion, improper maintenance, alteration, modification, accident or unusual degradation of
the equipment or parts due to an unsuitable installation environment.

No representation or other affirmation of facts, including but not limited to statements re­garding capacity, suitability for use or performance of the equipment, shall be or be
deemed to be a warranty or representation by Phoenix Contact for any purpose, not give
rise to any liability or obligation of Phoenix Contact whatsoever.

Customer’s sole and exclusive remedy in the event of breach of warranty, as set forth
herein, is express ly l im ited to (1) the co rrec tio n of the defect by adj ust me nt, repair, modifi­cation, or replacement, or (2) issuance of a credit or refund of the purchase price for the
defective equipment at Phoenix Contact’s election and sole expense.

EXCEPT AS SPECIFICALLY STATED ABOVE, THERE ARE NO OTHER WARRANTIES
EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO ANY IMPLIED WAR­RANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE.

This warranty extends on ly to the customer from Phoenix Contact or its au thor ize d distrib­utor.

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2313_en_A PHOENIX CONTACT v

Table of Contents

1 Product Overview....................................................................................................................1-3

1.1 RAD-UHF-FL-RS232-BD/… Overview...............................................................1-3

1.1.1 RAD-UHF-FL-RS232-BD/… Features and Benefits ...........................1-3

1.2 RAD-UHF-SL-RS232-BD Overview...................................................................1-4

1.2.1 RAD-UHF-SL-RS232-BD Features and Benefits ...............................1-5

1.3 System Architecture...........................................................................................1-5

1.3.1 Generic Connectivity ..........................................................................1-5

1.3.2 Industries and Applications .................................................................1-6

1.3.3 Application Detail ........................................ ...... ..... ...... ...... .................1-6

1.3.4 Systems Architecture ..........................................................................1-6

1.4 Compliance Information .....................................................................................1-9

1.4.1 R&TTE Notice (Europe) ....................................................................1-10

1.4.2 Important Notices for Cla ss I, Divi sion 2, G roups A, B, C & D Hazardou s

Locations ..........................................................................................1-10

1.4.3 Low Voltage Safety (Europe) ............................ ..... ...........................1-11

2 System Planning and Design..................................................................................................2-3

2.1 Accessing the Site..............................................................................................2-3

2.2 Path Quality Analysis.........................................................................................2-3

2.2.1 Signal Strength ...................................................................................2-3

2.2.2 Antennas and Cabling ........................................................................2-4

2.2.3 Coaxial Cable Considerations ............................................................2-4

2.2.4 Antenna Mounting Considerations .....................................................2-6

2.2.5 Maintaining System Performance .......................................................2-6

3 Making Connections and Powering Up............. ........................ ..............................................3-3

3.1 Data Connectivity...............................................................................................3-3

3.1.1 The V24 Standard ..............................................................................3-3

3.1.2 RAD-UHF-SL-RS232-BD Ports ............................. ...... ...... ..... ............3-4

3.1.3 RAD-UHF-FL-RS232-BD Ports ..........................................................3 -5

3.1.4 Hardware Handshaking (RAD-UHF-FL… Only) .................................3-5

3.2 Power Supply and Environmental Considerations.............................................3-5

3.2.1 General ............................................................................................... 3-5

3.2.2 Power Supply .....................................................................................3-6

3.2.3 Solar Applications ...............................................................................3-6

3.2.4 Grounding ........................................................................................... 3-6

4 Programming...........................................................................................................................4-3

4.1 Introduction ........................................................................................................4-3

4.2 Installation..........................................................................................................4-3

4.2.1 Software .............................................................................................4-3

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vi PHOENIX CONTACT 2313_en_A

4.3 RAD-Link 400 Software Main Screen.............. ...... ................................. ...... ..... .4-4

4.4 RAD-UHF-SL Programmer........................ ...... ...... ....................................... ......4-4

4.4.1 Main Window ........................ ..... ...... ...... ..... ........................................4-4

4.4.2 Pull-Down Menus and Toolbar Buttons ..............................................4-6

4.4.3 Port Configuration ............................ ...... .............................................4-8

4.4.4 RF Parameters .................................................................................4-11

4.4.5 System Parameters ..........................................................................4-13

4.4.6 Messages .........................................................................................4-15

4.4.7 Status Bar .........................................................................................4-16

4.5 RAD-UHF-FL Programmer...............................................................................4-16

4.5.1 Main Window ........................ ..... ...... ...... ..... ......................................4-16

4.5.2 Pull-Down Menus and Toolbar Buttons ............................................4-17

4.5.3 Port Configuration ............................ ...... ...........................................4-21

4.5.4 RF Parameters .................................................................................4-26

4.5.5 TX/RX (Frequency) Trim ..................................................................4-28

4.5.6 System Parameters ..........................................................................4-29

4.5.7 Messages .........................................................................................4-36

4.5.8 Status Bar .........................................................................................4-36

5 Troubleshooting.......................................................................................................................5-3

5.1 RAD-UHF… Radio.............................................................................................5 -3

5.1.1 Power .................................................................................................5-3

5.1.2 Received RF Signal ............................................................................5-3

5.1.3 Data Port Transfer ..............................................................................5-3

5.1.4 Radio Errors .......................................................................................5-4

5.1.5 Antenna Alignment and RSSI Testing ................................................5-4

5.1.6 Link Establishment and BER Testing ........................................... ......5-5

5.1.7 Performing a Loop Back Test .............................................................5-6

6 Diagnostics..............................................................................................................................6-3

6.1 Introduction ........................................................................................................6-3

6.1.1 Features .............................................................................................6-3

6.2 Main Screen.......................................................................................................6-4

6.3 Operating Instructions........................................................................................6-4

6.3.1 Main Menu ........................................................ ..... ...... ...... .................6-4

6.3.2 Modem Connection ............................................................................6-5

6.3.3 Introduction (Polled Diagnostics ) ....................................... .................6-5

6.3.4 Introduction (Automatic Diagnosti cs) ...................................... ...... ..... .6-6

6.3.5 File Menu ............................................................................................6-6

6.3.6 Settings Menu ...................................................................................6-13

6.3.7 Polling ............................................................................................... 6-23

6.3.8 Data Logging ....................................................................................6-25

6.3.9 Tools ................................................................................................. 6-28

6.3.10 Interpreting Poll Results ...................................................................6-31

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2313_en_A PHOENIX CONTACT vii

6.4 Open Database Connectivity (ODBC)..............................................................6-33

7 Technical Data.........................................................................................................................7-3

7.1 RAD-UHF-SL-RS232-BD...................................................................................7-3

7.2 RAD-UHF-FL-RS232-BD\…...............................................................................7-4

8 Ordering Inf o rm a t io n ........................................ .......................................... ..............................8-3

8.1 Ordering Information..........................................................................................8-3

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Section 1

2313_en_A PHOENIX CONTACT 1-1

This section informs you about
– Features and Benefits of the RAD-UHF radios
– System Architecture

Product Overview............................................................................................................................1-3

1.1 RAD-UHF-FL-RS232-BD/… Overview...............................................................1-3

1.1.1 RAD-UHF-FL-RS232-BD/… Features and Benefits............................1-3

1.2 RAD-UHF-SL-RS232-BD Overview...................................................................1-4

1.2.1 RAD-UHF-SL-RS232-BD Features and Benefits................................1-5

1.3 System Architecture...........................................................................................1-5

1.3.1 Generic Connectivity...........................................................................1-5

1.3.2 Industries and Applications..................................................................1-6

1.3.3 Application Detail......................................... ...... ..... ...... ...... .................1-6

1.3.4 Systems Architecture...........................................................................1-6

1.4 Compliance Information .....................................................................................1-9

1.4.1 R&TTE Notice (Europe).....................................................................1-10

1.4.2 Important Notices for Cla ss I, Divi sion 2, G roups A, B, C & D Hazardou s

Locations...........................................................................................1-10

1.4.3 Low Voltage Safety (Europe).................. ..... ......................................1-11

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1-2 PHOENIX CONTACT 2313_en_A

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Product Overview

2313_en_A PHOENIX CONTACT 1-3

1 Product Overview

1.1 RAD-UHF-FL-RS232-BD/… Overview

The RAD-UHF-FL-RS232-BD/… radio is a wireless modem designed for the transmission
of data communications for SCADA, telemetry and any other information and control ap­plications that utilize ASCII messaging techniques. The RAD-UHF-FL-… radio uses ad­vanced “digital” modul ation and signal processing tec hniques to achieve excep tionally high
data throughput efficiency using traditional licensed narrow band radio channels.

Many frequency band and regul ato ry formats are available to s uit various spectrum band ­plans in various continental regions. The radio is designed for both fixed point-to-point
(PTP), and multiple address (MAS) or point-to-multipoint (PTMP) systems.

The FL radio is a half-duplex “Remote” radio modem. Frequency band variants are indi­cated by the band prefix and model numbering (see “Ordering Information”on page 8-3).

1.1.1 RAD-UHF-FL-RS232-BD/… Features and Benefits

• Up to 19200 bps over-air data rates u sin g p rogrammable DSP-based ad vanced mod­ulation schemes.

• Superior receiver sensitivity.

• Fast data turnaround time <10 ms.

• 128-bit AES encryption.

• Flash upgradeable firmware – insurance against obsolescence.

• Multi-function bi-color TX/RX da ta LEDs showi ng po rt acti vity (break out bo x sty le), a s
well as LEDs indicating TX, RX, RF Signal, Data Synchronization and DC Power sta­tus of the radio.

• Rugged N-type antenna connectors on all equipment.

• High temperature transmitter foldback protection.

• Two independent configurable data ports and separate system port.

• Higher port speeds to support increased air-rate (up to 57600bps on Port 1 and
38400 bps on Port 2).

• Compatible with most industry standard data protocols, e.g., MODBUS, DNP-3,
IEC 870, SEL Mirrored Bits, etc.

• Independent system port for interruption free programming and diagnostics (in addi­tion to two (2) user ports).

• Compatible with legacy systems (Non Packet Digital and Bell 202 Modes)

• Remote over-the-air configuration of any radio from any location.

• Multistream™ simultaneous data streams allows for multiple vendor devices / proto­cols to be transported on the one radio network.

• Flexible data stream routing and steering providing optimum radio channel efficiency
– complex data radio systems can be implemented with fewer radio channels.

• The ability to duplicate data streams – that is , decode the sam e off-air data to two sep ­arate ports.

• Multi-function radio capable of d r opp ing of f on e s trea m to a po rt and forward on or re­peat (store and forward) the same or other data.

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PHOENIX CONTACT 2313_en_A

• Stand-alone internal store and forward operation – buffered store and forward opera­tion even in the remote units.

• Unique integrated C/DSMA colli si on avo idanc e tech nology permi ts sim ultan eou s poll ­ing and spontaneous reporting operation in the same system.

• Digital receiver frequency tracking for long term data reliability.

• Network wide non-intrusive diagnostics which runs simultaneously with the applica­tion.

• Network wide diagnostics interrogatio n which can be pe rformed from anywhere in th e
system including any remote site.

• Diagnostics will route its way to any remote or base/repeater site regardless of how
many base/repeater stations are interconnected.

• Full range of advanced features available within Network Management and Remote
Diagnostics package – BER testing, trending, channel occupancy, client/server oper­ation, etc.

• On-board memory for improving user data latency – increa sed user inte rface speed s.

• Full CRC error checked data – no erroneous data due to squelch tails or headers.

• Various flow control and PTT control mechanisms.

Figure 1-1 RAD-UHF-FL-RS232-BD/… Radio

• Optional full-duplex capable re mo te – s epa rate TX and RX ports for connection to an
external duplexer.

• New compact and rugged die cast case with built in heatsink.

• Low power consumption with various sleep modes.

• Rugged N-type antenna connectors.

• Data Port “breakout box” style flow LEDs for easier troubleshooting.

1.2 RAD-UHF-SL-RS232-BD Overview

The RAD-UHF-SL-RS232-BD radio is a wirel ess mod em des igned for the t ransm ission o f
data communication s for SC ADA, teleme try and a ny other informati on and c ontrol ap plica­tions that utilize ASCII messaging techniques. The SL radio uses advanced “digital” mod­ulation and signal proc essing technique s to achiev e exceptio nally high dat a through put ef­ficiency using traditional licensed narrow band radio channels.

These products are availab le in many frequen cy band and regul atory formats, to s uit spec­trum bandplans in various continental regions. The range is designed for both fixed point­to-point (PTP), and multiple address (MAS) or point-to-multipoint (PMP) systems.

The SL radio is a half-duplex “Remote” radio modem.

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1.2.1 RAD-UHF-SL-RS232-BD Features and Benefits

• 400-470 MHz band operation

• 0.1 to 5 watt transmitter output power

• Software selectable TX and RX frequencies

• Simplex or half-duplex operation with any TX-RX splits

• Synthesized digital data radio design

• High frequency stability

• Professional N-Type antenna connector

• Fully integrated DSP based data modem

• High data integrity - CRC error checking

• User configurable 300-19,200 bps asynch RS-232 port

• Fully transparent three wire user interface

• Intelligent transmitter control - auto TX on data

• Compatible with most industry standard data protocols, e.g., MODBUS, DNP-3,
IEC 870-5-101, etc.

• Multi-function bi-color TX/RX data LED s showin g Port activity (breakou t box style), as
well as LEDs indicating TX, RX, RF Signal, Data Synchronization and DC Power sta­tus of the radio.

Figure 1-2 RAD-UHF-SL-RS232-BD Radio

1.3 System Architecture

1.3.1 Generic Connectivity

The RAD-UHF-… Series is d esigned for SCADA and telemetry application s, and any othe r
applications that use an ASCII communications protocol, and which connect physically
using the RS-232 interface standard (although converters can be used to adapt other in­terfaces such as RS-422/485).

Any protocol that can b e displ ayed using a PC-ba sed t ermina l prog ram o peratin g via a se ­rial communications port is suitable for transmission by the RAD-UHF-… radio modems.

An ASCII protocol is any that consists of message strings formed from ASCII characters,
that being defined as a 1 0 or 11-bit block inc luding start and sto p bits, 7 or 8 data bi ts and
optional parity bit(s). Port set-up dialog that includes the expressi ons “N,8, 1,” or E, 7, 2”
or similar indicate an ASCII protocol.

Most of the dominant telemetry industry suppliers utilize proprietary ASCII protocols, and
also common “open standard” industry protocols such as DNP3, MODBUS, TCP/IP, and
PPP. These are all ASCII based protocols.

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PHOENIX CONTACT 2313_en_A

1.3.2 Industries and Applications

RAD-UHF-… Series products are widely used in point-to-point and point-to-multipoint
(multiple access) appli cations for remote interconnec tion of PLCs, RTUs, data loggers, and
other data monitorin g and control de vices - including specialist ut ility devices (suc h as pow­erline ACRs). In addition , other applications such as area wide security and alarm sys tems,
public information systems (traffic flow and public signage systems) and environmental
monitoring systems.

1.3.3 Application Detail

1.3.3.1 SCADA Systems

This is where one or more cen tralized c ontrol si tes are used to monito r and con trol remote
field devices over wide areas. Example s include regional u tilities monitori ng and controlling
networks over entire towns or a greater metropolitan areas. Industry sectors include en­ergy utilities (gas an d e lec tri cit y dis tri buti on ) , wat er a nd sewerage utilities , c at chm en t a nd
environment groups (rivers, dams and catchment management authorities).

1.3.3.2 Telemetry Systems

Dedicated telemetry control systems interconnecting sequential devices either where ca­bling is not practical or distances are considerable. Examples include:

– ore conveyor or slurry pipeline systems
– water systems (pump and reservoir interlinking )
– broadcast industry (linking studio to transmitter) etc.

1.3.4 Systems Architecture

Point-to-Point

Figure 1-3 Point-to-Point Linking

This simple system a rchitectur e provides a virtua l connec tion betwee n the two points, sim ­ilar to a cable. Dependent of the hardware chosen, it is possible to provide a full-duplex
connection, i.e., data transfer in both directions simultaneously, if required.

Channel availability is managed by
the Collision Avoidance System

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Product Overview

2313_en_A PHOENIX CONTACT 1-7

Point-to-Multipoint Systems

Figure 1-4 Point-to-Multipoint Linking

In a multiple access radio system, messages can be broadcast from one (master) site to
all others, either usi ng a half-duplex radio system or f rom any site to all others, us ing a sim­plex radio channel.

Half-duplex system s often u tiliz e a full-d uplex master , to make the sys tem sim pler and for
faster operation.

In either case, it will be necessary for the application to support an addressing system,
since the master need s to be ab le to sel ec t whic h rem ote device it with which it wis hes to
communicate. Normally, the radio system is allowed to operate “transparently”, allowing
the application’s p rotocol to provide the addre ssing, a nd thus control th e traffic. Where the
application layer does not provide the addressing, the FL Series can provide it using SID
codes™.

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In a Point-to-Multipoint System, the master radio can:

• send to a selected modem or broadcast to all

• receive data from all modems

• support unlimited network size - limits based on
bandwidth only

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PHOENIX CONTACT 2313_en_A

1.3.4.1 Repeater Systems

Figure 1-5 Repeater Linking

This configuration is us ed whe re all si tes are req uired to c ommu nicate via a repe ater sit e.
A repeater site is used because it ha s a position and/ or height advantag e and thus provid es
superior or extended RF coverage. The radio mode m at the repeat er does not ha ve to be
physically connected to the application’s master site. Information from the application’s
master is transmitted to the rep eater via radio, and the repea ter then relays this informati on
to the other field sites. In this scenario, the repeater is the master from an RF point of view,
and the application master is effectiv ely a “rem ote” from an RF p oint of v iew, eve n thoug h
it is controlling the data transfer on the system.

Channel availability is managed by
the Collision Avoidance System

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Backbone Store and Forward Systems

Figure 1-6 Backbone Store and Forward System

Store and forward is used as a way of extend ing RF coverage by rep eating data mes sages
from one site to another.

This can be done globally using the built-in data repeating functions or selectively using
intelligent address-based routing features available in some PLC/RTU protocols.

In this case it is necessa ry for all u nits on th e syst em to ope rate in hal f-duple x mode (only
key-up when transmittin g data), so that each site is free to h ear received signal s from more
than one source.

1.4 Compliance Information

Dual ports (1 & 2) on each RAD-UHF-FL radio allow for drop-and-insert data streams.
Routing of data down specific paths to minimize system loading.
Multiple devices/protocols supported at any radio site (ports 1& 2).
Network wide diagnostics to all sites (non-intrusive) available from any site.
SID: Stream Identifier
Full-duplex operation available with optional duplexer or base station.

Repeater Site 1 Repeater Site 2

Repeater Site 3

SCADA

Diagnostics

WARNING – RF Exposure

The radio equipment described in this user ma nual emits low level radio frequency
energy. The concentrated en ergy may pose a hea lth hazard depending on th e type
of antenna used. In the case of:

Non-directional antenna - DO NOT allow people to come within 0.5 m (20 in.) of the
antenna when the transmitter is operating.

Directional antenna - DO NOT allow people to come within 6 m (20 ft.) of the
antenna when the transmitter is operating.

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1.4.1 R&TTE Notice (Europe)

Applies to Models RAD-UHF-... Radios

In order to comply with the R&TT E (Radio & Telecom munications Terminal Eq uipment) di­rective 1999/5/EC Article 3 (Low Voltage Directive 73/23/EEC), all radio modem installa­tions must include an external in-line lightn ing arres tor or equi va len t devic e that complies
with the following specifications:

– DC Blocking Capability - 1.5 kV impulse (R is e Tim e 10 ms, Fall Time 700 ms) (Repe-

tition 10 times) or 1.0 kV RMS 50 Hz sine wave for 1 minute.

Phoenix Contact declares that the RAD-UHF-… radio eq uipment is in com pliance with the
essential requiremen ts and other relevant provisions of the Di rective 1999/5/EC. There fore
this equipment is labelled with the following CE-marking.

The RAD-UHF-… ra dios are a range o f wirel ess mo dems de signed for the t ransmiss ion of
data communication s for SC ADA, teleme try and a ny other informati on and c ontrol ap plica­tions that utilize ASCII messaging techniques. T he RAD-UHF-… ra dios use adva nced “dig­ital” modulation and signal processing techniques to achieve exceptionally high data
throughput efficiency using traditional licensed narrow band radio channels.

These products are av ailable in many frequency bands a nd regulatory fo rmats to suit spec ­trum bandplans, in various contin ental re gions. The ran ge is desig ned for bot h fixed point­to-point (PTP), and multiple address (MAS) or point-to-multipoint (PMP) systems.

1.4.2 Important Notices for Class I, Division 2, Groups A, B, C &
D Hazardous Locations

This product is available for use in Class I, Division 2, Groups A, B, C & D Hazardous Lo­cations. Such loca tion s a re de fined in Article 500 of the U S N a tio nal Fire Prote cti on As so ­ciation (NFPA) publicati on NFPA 70, othe rwise known as the National Electri cal Code and
in Section 18 of the Canadian Standards Association C22.1 (Canadian Electrical Code).

WARNING – EXPLOSION HAZARD

Do not disconnect equipment unless power has been switched off or the area is
known to be non-hazardous. Subs titution of components may impair suitab ility for
Class I, Division 2. R efer to Articles 500 throug h 502 of the National Electric al Code
(NFPA 70) and Section 18 of CSA C22.1 for further information on hazardous
locations and approved Division 2 wiring methods.

0889

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2313_en_A PHOENIX CONTACT 1-11

The transceiver is r eco gn ized for use in these haz ard ous lo ca tio ns by the Canadian Stan­dards Association (CSA) International. CSA certification is in accordance with CSA Stan­dard C22.2 No. 213-M1987 and UL Standard 1604 subject to the following conditions of
approval:

1. The radio modem must be mounted in a suitable enclosure so that a tool is required

to gain access for disconnection of antenna, power and communication cables.

2. The antenna, DC p ower and in terface c ables must be rou ted through conduit in acco r-

dance with the National Electrical Code.

3. Installation, ope rati on an d m ai nte nan ce of the radio mod em s ho uld be in accordance

with the radio modem’s user manual and the National Electrical Code.

4. Tampering or replacemen t with non-factory compo nents may adversely affe ct the safe

use of the radio modem in hazardous locations and may void the approval.

5. A power connector with screw-type retaining screws as supplied by Phoenix Contact

MUST be used.

1.4.3 Low Voltage Safety (Europe)

In order to comply with th e R&TT E (Rad io and Teleco mmun icati ons Ter minal Equi pmen t)
directive 1999/5/EC Article 3 (Low Volta ge D irecti ve 73/23/ EEC), al l radi o mod em in stalla ­tions must include an external in-line lightn ing arres tor or equi va len t devic e that complies
with the following specifications:

– DC Blocking Capability - 1.5 kV impulse (Rise Ti me 10 ms, Fall Time 700 ms) (Repe-

tition 10 Times) or 1.0kV RMS 50 Hz sine wave for 1 minute.

The RAD-UHF-SL is classified as SELV throughout. All ports shall be connected to like cir­cuits and shall not ex tend bey ond the bui lding bou ndary o f the host equipmen t unless con­nected via an isolation unit compliant with the requirements of section 7 of EN60950-1.

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Section 2

2313_en_A PHOENIX CONTACT 2-1

This section informs you about
– Site design for optimum performance

System Planning and Design..........................................................................................................2-3

2.1 Accessing the Site..............................................................................................2-3

2.2 Path Quality Analysis.........................................................................................2-3

2.2.1 Signal Strength....................................................................................2-3

2.2.2 Antennas and Cabling....................................... ................................. .2-4

2.2.3 Coaxial Cable Considerations.............................................................2-4

2.2.4 Antenna Mounting Considerations ......................................................2-6

2.2.5 Maintaining System Performance........................................................2-6

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System Planning and Design

2313_en_A PHOENIX CONTACT 2-3

2 System Pl an ning and Design

2.1 Accessing the Site

To achieve the best radio performance possible, the installation sites for remote/repeater
and master stations have to be given careful cons ideration. the pri mary requirem ents for a
reliable installation incl ude :

– Antenna placement that allows for line-of-sight or adequate signal strength.
– Primary power source that provides required current.
– Protection of radio equipment from exposure to weather or environmental extremes.
– Suitable entrances for antenna, lightning arrestor, interface or other required cables.

These requirements can be quickly a ssessed in mos t applicat ions. A possible exception is
verifying that a cl ear line-of-sight exists. A non-obst ructed path is id eal. However, m inor ob­structions in the si gna l pa th w il l no t al w ays bl oc k c om munic ati on. In general, the need f or
a clear path becomes greater as the transmission distance increases.

2.2 Path Quality Analysis

With the exceptio n of short range app lications, a p ath loss study is generally reco mmended
for new installatio ns. The exceptio ns incl ude short distanc es and where a test is do ne with
a Phoenix Contact radio. However, w here towers would n eed to be built j ust to d o the tes t,
a path loss stu dy is more pract ical. A path loss stud y pred icts the s ignal streng th rel iabili ty
and estimates the fade margin of a proposed radio link. While terrain, elevation and dis­tance are the ma jor fac tors i n this p roc ess, a pat h los s study also cons iders anten na ga in,
coaxial cable loss, transmitter power and receiver sensitivity to arrive at a final prediction.

Path loss studies are normally performed by a communications consultant, wireless hard­ware vendor or a sys tem integrator who uses topographic map s or a software path a nalysis
tool to evaluate a proposed path.

Although path studies pro vide valuable assis tance in system pl anning, they are not perfe ct
in their predictions . It is difficul t, for ex ample , to co nside r the ef fec ts of m an-ma de obs truc­tions or foliage growth without performing an actual on-air test. Such tests can be done
using temporarily installed equipment.

2.2.1 Signal Strength

The strength of radio sig nals in a well-designe d SCADA system must ex ceed the minimum
level needed to establish basic communication. The excess signal is known as the fade
margin and it compensa tes for vari ations in sig nal level which may occur from tim e to time
due to foliage growth, minor antenna misalignment or changing atmospheric losses.

While the required amoun t of fa de margin differs from one sy st em to an oth er, e xp erie nc e
has shown that a level of 20 to 30 dB above the receiver sensitivity threshold is sufficient
in most SCADA systems. The RAD-UHF-… radios provide a means for direct measure­ment of received signal strength using a DC voltmeter or diagnostic software.

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2.2.2 Antennas and Cabling

The single most important item affecting radio performance is the antenna system. Careful
attention must be given to this part of an installation o r the performance of the entire system
will be compromised. H igh-qualit y gain antenna s should be us ed at all master and remote
stations. The antennas should be specifically designed for use at the intended frequency
of operations (400-470 MHz) and with matching impedance (50 ohms).

SCADA communication an tennas are mad e by several manu facturers and fa ll into two ca t­egories – OMNI-directional and YAGI-directional. An OMNI-directional antenna provides
equal radiation an d resp onse in all direc tions and i s app ropriate for us e at m aster statio ns
which must communica te with an array of rem ot e sta tio ns s ca ttere d in vari ous dire cti ons .

At remote stations, a dire ctional a ntenna, su ch as a YAG I, is typica lly used . Directiona l an­tennas confine the trans mission and reception of sign als to a relatively na rrow beam width
allowing a greater communication range and reducing the chances of interference from
other users outsi de the pattern. It is nece ss ary to a im th ese a nte nnas in the desired di rec ­tion of communication, i.e., at the master station.

The end of the antenna (farthest from support mast) should face the associated station.
Final alignment of the an ten na he ading can be accomplish ed by ori enti ng it for maximum
received signal strength. Do this while monitoring the RSSI with a DC voltmeter.

2.2.3 Coaxial Cable Considerations

The importance of using a low-loss antenna coaxial cable is often neglected during radio
installation. Using the wro ng cable can cause huge reductions in efficiency and these
losses cannot be recovered with any amount of antenna gain or transmitter power.

For every 3 dB of coax ial ca bl e lo ss , half the transmitte r powe r is lost before reaching the
antenna. The choice of coaxial cable to use depends on:

1. the length of cable required to reach the antenna.

2. the amount of signal loss that can be tolerated.

3. cost considerations.

4. For long-range transmission paths where the signal is likely to be weaker, a low-loss

cable type is recomm ended, espec ially if the l ength of cabl e must excee d 15 m (50 ft.).

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System Planning and Design

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Figure 2-1 OMNI-Directional and YAGI-Directional Antenna Radiation

For a short-range system or one that requires only a short antenna coaxial cable, a less
efficient cable may be acceptable and will cost far less than large diameter cable. See
Table 2-1 to judge the effectiveness of various cables at 450 MHz.

Table 2-1 Cable Types and Signal Loss (dB) at 450 MHz

Cable Type Loss per 30.5 m

(100 ft.)

RG-58 9.9 dB

RG-213 4.62 dB
LMR 400 2.71 dB
LMR 600 1.72 dB

YAGI

Directional Antenna

OMNI

Round Reflector Antenna

Vertical Aperture Angle

Vertical Transmit
and Receive Range

Horizontal Aperture Angle

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2.2.4 Antenna Mounting Considerations

The antenna manufac turer’s ins tallation i nstructions must be strictly fo llowed for pro per op­eration of either type of an tenna. Use the proper m ounting hardware and bracket to ensure
a secure mounting arr angement w ith no pattern distortion o r de-tuning of the antenna. The
following recommendations apply to all antenna installations:

1. Mount the antenna in the clear, as far away as possible from obstructions such as
buildings, metal objects, dense foliage, etc. Choose a location that provides a clear
path in the dir ection of the op posite antenna. If ante nna is co-located with another an­tenna, try to ge t at least 2m (6ft.) ve rtical or 3m (10 ft.) h orizontal separat ion between
the two antennas.

2. Polarization of the antenna is important. Most systems use a vertically-polarized
OMNI-directional anten na at the master s tation. Ther efore, the remote ant ennas must
also be vertically pol arized (elements perpen dicular to the horizon). Cross-polarization
between stations can cause a signal loss of 20 dB or more.

2.2.5 Maintaining System Performance

Over time any communi ca tions system requires a de gree of preventative maintena nc e to
ensure peak operating efficiency. Periodic checks of master and remote sites should be
made to identify and correct problems before they become threats to system operation.
The following areas should be given special attention.

2.2.5.1 Antennas and Coaxial Cable

Visually inspect the ant enna and coa xial cabl e for physical damage and make sure the co­axial connections are ti gh t a nd properly sealed agai ns t t he w eat her. Fo r di rec tional anten­nas, ensure that the antenna heading has not shifted since installation.

The SWR (Standing Wave Ratio) of the antenna system should be checked from time to
time using a through- line watt meter. D efects in th e antenna system frequently s how up as
reflected power on the meter. It is good practice to accep t only a maximum refle cted power
of about 5%; this corresponds to an SWR of approximately 1.5:1. For any condition ex­ceeding this value, search for and correct the cause; damaged antenna, defective or im­properly installed connectors, water in the coaxial feedline, etc.

2.2.5.2 Cable Connections

All power, data, and ground connections should be secure and free of corrosion.

2.2.5.3 Power Supply

The voltage of the station power supply should be measured to verify that it is within the
operating specificati ons for the radi o. If possible, the radio should be keyed during th is test
to ensure maximum curre nt draw from the supp ly. Batteries, if used, s hould be checked for
charge level and signs of leakage or corrosion.

NOTE: Be sure to chec k the regi on’s regul ation on a ntenna si ze and mo unting height re­striction.

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Section 3

2313_en_A PHOENIX CONTACT 3-1

This section informs you about
– how to mount and connect the radio

Making Connections and Powering Up........................................ .. ............................................. ....3-3

3.1 Data Connectivity...............................................................................................3-3

3.1.1 The V24 Standard...............................................................................3-3

3.1.2 Hardware Handshaking (RAD-UHF-FL… Only)..................................3-4

3.2 Power Supply and Environmental Considerations.............................................3-5

3.2.1 General................................................................................................3-5

3.2.2 Power Supply......................................................................................3-5

3.2.3 Solar Applications................................................................................3-5

3.2.4 Grounding............................................................................................3-6

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2313_en_A PHOENIX CONTACT 3-3

3 Making Connections and Powering Up

3.1 Data Connectivity

3.1.1 The V24 Standard

The radio modems provide asynchronous V24-compliant RS-232 ports for connection to
serial data devices.

There are two types of RS-232 interfaces – DTE and DCE.
– DTE stands for Data Terminal Equipment and is generally applied to any intelligent de-

vice that has a nee d to communic ate to anothe r device vi a RS-232. Fo r example: P.C.
COM ports are always DTE, as are most PLC and RTU serial ports.

– DCE stands for Data Communication Equipment and is generall y ap pli ed to a dev ic e

used for sending data over some mediu m (wire s, radi o, fib er, etc .), i.e. , any MO DE M .

The standard interface betw ee n a D TE and DCE de vic e (us in g the same co nn ector type)
is a straight through cable (i.e., each pin connects to the same numbered corresponding
pin at the other end of the cable).

The wiring standard i s “unbalanced” and provides fo r three basic data transfer wires (TXD,
RXD, and GND).

Figure 3-1 RS-232 Cable Types

Straight Through Cable Null Cable

Modem DB9 Female

Connector

RTU/PLC or Computer

DB9 Connector

Modem DB9 Female

Connector

RTU/PLC or Computer

DB9 Connector

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Figure 3-2 RAD-UHF-SL-RS232-BD RS-232 Connector Pinout

Figure 3-3 RAD- UHF-FL-… RS-232 Connector Pinouts Ports 1 and 2

3.1.2 RAD-UHF-SL-RS232-BD Ports

The Data Port has two functions; it is used for programming and diagnostics of the radio
as well as sending application data. Use the RAD-UHF-SL-CAB/PROG (order no.

5606657) cable, which has a single 9-pin male D- Sub RS232 connector on one en d to con-

nect to the radio and two 9 -pin fem ale D-Sub s on th e other en d. One is used fo r program ­ming and diagnostics and the other is used for the application data.

The Data Port also has the following special functions:
– Pin 1: DCD can be used as an RF carrier detect for collision avoidance
– Jumper Pins 7 and 8: Enables radio transmitter for testing (PTT mode)

The Data Port does not support handshaking for application data. A simple 3-wire inter­face is provided- TX, RX, and GND.

6 – RxD - Diagnostic
7 – RTS
8 – CTS
9 – RSSI Output

1 – DCD
2 – RX
3 – TX
4 – TxD - Diagnostic
5 – GND

6 – DSR
7 – RTS
8 – CTS
9 – Not used (Port 1)
RSSI (Port 2)

5 – GND
4 – DTR
3 – RX
2 – TX
1 – DCD

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2313_en_A PHOENIX CONTACT 3-5

3.1.3 RAD-UHF-FL-RS232-BD Ports

3.1.3.1 System Port

The System Port is used for programming and diagnostics of the radio. Use the
RAD-UHF-FL-CAB/PROG (Part No. 5606653) cable, w hich has an RJ45 conne ctor to con­nect to the radio and a 9-pin female D-Sub to connect to the PC.

The System Port also has the following special functions:
– Jumper Pins 4 and 7: Enables low power/sleep mode
– Jumper Pins 7 and 8: Enables radio transmitter for testing (PTT mode)

3.1.3.2 Application Ports

Each user port (1 and 2) i s RS232 DCE, confi gurable for no handsha king (3-wire) interfa ce,
or for hardware or software (X-on/X-off) flow control. In most systems flow control is not
required, in which case only 3 wires need to be connected between the radio and the ap­plication device.

The DCD (pin 1) on Port 1 can be configured as an RF carrier detect mechanism for colli­sion avoidance (see “Programming” on page 4-3).

3.1.4 Hardware Handshaking (RAD-UHF-FL… Only)

Hardware handshake lines can be employed to provide flow control. However, in the te­lemetry industry, many devices do not always support all (or any) flow control lines.

In telemetry applicat ions (particularly whe re port speeds ca n be set to the same rate as th e
radio systems over-air rate ) then flow c ontrol, and therefore handsha king, is usually NOT
required. It follows that any devic es that CAN be configured for “no flow control” sh ould be
used in this mode to simplify cabling requirements.

3.2 Power Supply and Environmental Considerations

3.2.1 General

When mounting the equipment, consideration should be given to the environmental as­pects of the site. The cabi net sho uld be positioned so that it is sha ded from hot afte rnoon
sun, or icy cold wind . While the radi os are desig ned for h arsh tempe ratu re extre mes, they
will give a longer service life if operated in a more stable temperature environment. In an
industrial environment, the radio modems should b e isolated from excessive vibration,
which can destroy electronic components, joints, and oscillators.

The cabinet shoul d provide full protection from moi sture, dust, cor rosive atmosph eres, and
residues from ants and small vermin (which can be corrosive or conductive). The radio
modem will radiate heat from the built-i n heatsink, and the hi gher the transmitter duty cycle,
the more heat will be radiated from the heatsink. Ensure sufficie nt ventilation in th e form of
passive or forced air circulation for the radio to maintain specified temperature limits.

NOTE: Because of the great va riety of handshaki ng methods, PhoenixContac t does not
recommend full handshaking implementation. However, Ready-To-Send (RTS) and
Clear-To-Send (CTS) can be configured, if necessary.

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3.2.2 Power Supply

The power supply should provide a clean, filtered DC source. The radio modem is de­signed and calibrated t o operate from a 13.8 V DC regulate d suppl y, but will operate fro m
10-16 volts (filtered) DC.

The power supply must be able to supply sufficient current to provide clean, filtered DC
under the full current conditions of the radio modem, for example, when trans mitting full RF
power.

3.2.3 Solar Applications

In solar or battery-backed installations, a battery management unit should be fitted to cut
off power to the radio when battery levels fall below the minimum voltage specification of
the radio. In solar applicat ions, a s olar regu lation un it must als o be fitte d to ensu re that the
radio (and battery) is protected from excessive voltage under full sun conditions.

When calculating solar and battery capacity requirements, the constant current consump­tion is approximately e qual to the trans mit cu rrent mul tiplie d by the duty-c ycle o f the trans ­mitter, plus the receive current multiplied by the (remaining) duty-cycle of the receiver.

The TX/RX duty-cycle is entirely d ependent on the amount of data b eing transmitte d by the
radio modem, unless the device is configured for continuous transmit, in which case the
constant current consumption is equal to the transmit current only (at 100% duty-cycle).

3.2.4 Grounding

Ensure that the DIN rail, power supply (–) ground, RTU terminal device, and lightning ar­rester are all securely grounded to a common point to which a ground stake is attached.
Please pay partic ular attention to 24 V DC PLC syst ems using DC-DC converters to s upply

13.8 V DC.

NOTE: There is NO readily serviceable internal fuse. The radio modem MUST be exter­nally fused with a fuse and fuse holder.

NOTE: Operation belo w the minimum speci fied supply voltages could result in poor rad io
performance. If the sup ply voltage fal ls below 7.2 V D C the radio will sh ut down. Norm al
radio startup will not occur until 10 V DC is supplied .

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Section 4

2313_en_A PHOENIX CONTACT 4-1

This section informs you about
– how to use the RAD-Link 400 software
– configuration of radios using the RAD-Link 400 software

Programming..................................................................................................................................4-3

4.1 Introduction ........................................................................................................4-3

4.2 Installation..........................................................................................................4-3

4.2.1 Software ..............................................................................................4-3

4.3 RAD-Link 400 Software Main Screen.............. ...... ................................. ...... ..... .4-4

4.4 RAD-UHF-SL Programmer........................ ...... ...... ....................................... ......4-4

4.4.1 Main Window.......................................................................................4-4

4.4.2 Pull-Down Menus and Toolbar Buttons...............................................4-6

4.4.3 Port Configuration.................. ..... .........................................................4-8

4.4.4 RF Parameters..................................................................................4-11

4.4.5 System Parameters...........................................................................4-13

4.4.6 Messages..........................................................................................4-15

4.4.7 Status Bar.................................................... ...... ..... ...... ...... ...............4-16

4.5 RAD-UHF-FL Programmer...............................................................................4-16

4.5.1 Main Window.....................................................................................4-16

4.5.2 Pull-Down Menus and Toolbar Buttons.............................................4-17

4.5.3 Port Configuration.................. ..... .......................................................4-21

4.5.4 RF Parameters..................................................................................4-26

4.5.5 TX/RX (Frequency) Trim...................................................................4-28

4.5.6 System Parameters...........................................................................4-29

4.5.7 Messages..........................................................................................4-36

4.5.8 Status Bar.................................................... ...... ..... ...... ...... ...............4-36

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4 Programming

4.1 Introduction

This section covers the installation and operation of the RAD-Link 400 software which
incorporates the following u tilities:

• Programming - Allows configuration of the radio RF parameters, system parameters
and data ports.

• Diagnostics - Provides diagno stic capa bility for real -time m onitoring and log ging of ra ­dio performance parameters.

All utilities can b e run on any IBM -co mpatible computer runn in g a W indows 95

®

and later
operating system. This section describes use of the programming utility in detail. See
Section 6, “Diagnostics” for information on using the diagnostics utility.

The programmer sets configuration parameters within the RAD-UHF… radios. The utility
permits configuration of modems connected directly to the PC as well as over the air to a
remote unit. Configurat ion parame ters can be saved to a disk file for la ter retrieva l or used
for clone programming of other modems.

All configuration paramete rs are held in non-vo latile memory (NVRAM ) on the Da ta R adio
Modem. Configuration is fully pro grammable vi a the System s Port using the programm ing
cable (Part No. 5606653 fo r RAD-UHF-FL-… and 5 606657 for R AD-UHF-SL-R S232-BD).
Disassembly of the unit is not required for any reason other than for factory servicing.

In addition to configuration, the diagnostics utility permits monitoring and logging of radio
performance parameters for both FL and SL data radio modems.

RAD-Link 400 software can be downloaded free of charge at

http://www.phoenixcon.com/wireless/

4.2 Installation

4.2.1 Software

Installation of the RAD-Link 400 software installs both the Programming Software and
Diagnostic Software.

STEP 1: Installation

3. Close down all other programs currently running.

4. Locate the installer file downloaded from

http://www.phoenixcon.com/wireless/

5. Double-click the file and follow the directions.

NOTE: If a previous version of the RAD -Link 400 so ftware is installe d on the PC, it must
be uninstalled via Control Panel “Add/Remove Programs”.

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4.3 RAD-Link 400 Software Main Screen

When started the RA D-Link 400 s oftwar e main s creen appea rs. The large r bu ttons perm it
the various utilities to be started. Access to local help and an exit facility are provided by
the remaining two buttons.

Figure 4-1 RAD-Link 400 Software Main Screen

4.4 RAD-UHF-SL Programmer

4.4.1 Main Window

When first started t he prog rammer is in fi le mo de as indi cated by the mode field at the bot­tom right of the panel (Figure 4-2). In this mode it is possible to open a previously saved
configuration file, or c onfigu re vario us prog ramming op tio ns and sav e the con figurat ion to
a file.

NOTE: Modulation type is not available in this mode.

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Figure 4-2 Main Window

To commence programming a unit a session must first be established by clicking the
“READ” button. This function reads the current configuration from the unit and displays it
in the main window. Several options in the main window ma y be blanked out until a session
is established with a unit.

The procedure to follow for normal programming of unit is:

• Read unit

• Configure parameters (or open a previously saved configuration file)

• Write unit

Several modems of th e s am e ra dio ty pe ca n b e programmed with the s am e c on fig uration
using the clone facilit y described in Clone Mo de. It is important to note that whe n using this
facility the cloned radio should be of the same type to ensure it does not operate outside
its capability.

NOTE: Changing any item on the menu will not take effect until data is written back to
the unit by clicking the “WRITE” button.

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4.4.2 Pull-Down Menus and Toolbar Buttons

The items on the pull-down menus can be selected either directly with a mouse or using
the <Alt> key in combination with a HOT KEY, for example , <Alt> + <F> to select the “File”
menu. Several of the functions within each menu are also available on the toolbar (click
once to select).

Figure 4-3 Programmer Toolbar

4.4.2.1 File Menu

The “File” menu al lows the u ser to lo ad (open) or save c onfigurat ion data as well as to q uit
the program. The files are saved with a “.cfg” file extension

Open (also available on the toolbar)
This function is used to load an existing configuration file that can be used to directly pro-

gram the radio or to use as a starting point to edit configuration parameters. Note that a
session must be establi shed w ith the u nit by ini tially readin g the conf igur ation pa ramete rs
from the unit prior to being written to a unit.

In file mode, the mo dulati on type is no t displ ayed. If in lo cal /remot e mode and a fi le sa ved
from local/remote mod e is o pened , the m odulat ion ty pe is importe d and used, but onl y if i t
is valid for the connected hardware. If not, the unit’s read modulation type is used.

Save (also available on the toolbar)
This function is used to sa ve the c urrent co nfigura tion para meters to a file fo r future rec all.
In file mode, only basic RF, Port, and System parameters are saved and recalled. In

local/remote mode, then modulation type is saved and recalled.
Print (also available on the toolbar)
This function prints out the configuration data to the default printer in a standard format.

There are no options for this item.
This should be used if a complete record is required for site/unit configuration. Firm-

ware/Modulation/Diags/Hardware type are all printed.
Exit (also available on the toolbar)
This function terminates the program. The user is requested to confirm this selection

before exiting the application.

4.4.2.2 Modem Menu

The “Modem” menu allo ws con figurat ion da ta to be rea d f rom an d wr itten t o the unit u sing
the selected PC serial p ort con necti on (see “Settin gs” on pag e 4-7). The action of read ing
the configuration establishes a session with the unit. Communications is maintained with
the unit to ensure that the session remains open. If the session is lost due to data trans­mission errors or d is co nne cti on of th e programming cable it needs to be re-es ta blished to
ensure any updated configuration is written successfully to the unit.

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Read (also available on the toolbar)

This function establishes a programming session with the unit, reads configuration data
from the unit and displays it in the programmer main window. After configuration data is
read from the unit it is available for editing and writing back to the unit or saving to a file.
Monitor the status of th e program ming co nnecti on usi ng the “C onnectio n Plug” ic on in th e
top right-hand corner of the programmer.

– If the icon is RED and NOT CONNECTED, a programming session has NOT been

started.

– If the icon is RED and CO NNECTED, a program ming session has been started b ut the

radio has not completed the programming session initialization.

– If the icon is GREEN and CONNECTED, a programming session has been success-

fully started.
Write (also available on the toolbar)
This function writes conf iguration data displa yed in the main window to the unit and reboots

the unit. When select ed a dial og window appe ars prompting the user to confirm whethe r to
proceed. A progress indicator in the bottom right-hand corner of the main window is dis­played while data is being read. This se lec tio n is on ly av ail able if a session has been pre­viously established and maintained with the unit.

Cancel Session (also available on the toolbar)
This function closes the sessi on with unit and put s the programmer back in to file mode. All

configuration change s are disc ard ed inc lu din g ch ang es to Pow e r Adjus t and M ute Adj us t.

Clone Mode

This function permits writing of the same configuration data to several units. This feature
is normally used for configuring data radio modems connected locally.

The procedure is:

1. Read the configuration from the first unit.

2. Configure the parameters (or open a previously saved configuration file).

3. Select the “Modem… Clone Mode” menu.

4. Write the configuration to the first unit (the changes only take effect when the unit is

re-powered).

5. Connect the next unit.

6. Write the next unit which e stabli shes a s essi on and recogniz es the unit s erial numbe r

and type, which then configures the unit.

7. Re-power the unit for changes to take effect.

8. Repeat the last 3 steps for the remaining units.

4.4.2.3 Settings

The “Settings” menu permits selection of the PC serial port (COM1 to COM4) to be used
for communications with the unit. COM 1 is the default s election and, if a differe nt port is to
be used, it must be set before establishing a session by reading the configuration from a
unit. While a session is established with a unit this menu cannot be accessed.

NOTE: In general, any change made on the programmer screen must be written to the
unit (using the write fun ction) to become perm anently stored. However, change s to Pow­er Adjust and Mut e Adjust take immediate effect to all ow test and a djustment p rior to per­manent storage via the write function.

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4.4.3 Port Configuration

4.4.3.1 Character Layer

There are two stand ard format s and a c ustom fo rmat that c an be se lected by checking the
appropriate control button to the left of the description. The standard formats are:

– 9600, N, 8, 1 (data speed = 9600 bps, no parity, 8 data bits, 1 stop bit)
– 4800, N, 8, 1 (data speed = 4800 bps, no parity, 8 data bits, 1 stop bit)

Figure 4-4 Standard Port Configuration Screen

A non-standard format can be selected v ia the “C u sto m” bu tton th at dis pl ay s a d ia log b ox
to permit selection of da ta speed , parity, number of data bits and stop bits. On ce select ed
press the “OK” button t o com plete the se lecti on. The cus tom s electi on is also disp layed in
the main window below the “Custom ” button.

Figure 4-5 Non-Standard Configuration Screen

4.4.3.2 Packet Layer

There are two standard co nfi gura tio ns and a c us tom con figuration which can be selected
by checking the ap propriate radio button to the left of th e description. There are e ssentially
two basic modes of operation for the Packet Assembler and Disassembler (PAD).

The first is where the PAD operates in a standard mode with data received at the port being
immediately sent over the radio channel.

The second is a st ore and forward or d elayed mode where whole data pac kets are received
from the port before being sent over the radio channel.

In both cases data is se nt over the radio chan nel in vari able leng th frames an d delinea tion
of these frames is dependent on the configuration selected as well as the characteristics
of the data stream received at the data port.

The packet layer configuration options which can be selected are:

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Standard (Live Framing)

With standard live framing data received from the host by the modem is immediately
placed into a frame and transferred onto the radio channel. This avoids placi ng “store and
forward” delays in the data transmission.

If a stream of characters is receiv ed by the mode m, then seve ral characte rs at a time may
be placed into the same frame. The num ber of charac ters in the fram e depends mai nly on
the respective baud rates o f the user port and the primary channel baud rate of the mo dem,
as well as the level of overheads experienced on the radio channel and the user data
stream.

For example, a constant stream of 300 baud user data placed onto a 9600 baud channel
results in 1 character per frame being transmitted. If the user baud rate is raised to
9600, N, 8, 1 with a continuous d ata str eam, t he fram e siz e se ttles to abou t 16 charact ers
plus 32 overhead bits. If colli sion avoida nce i s enab led, a s the m aster averag e frame size
increases to 32 characters plus overhead bits.

The number of data bits associated with the user data stream also has an effect on the
average size of a frame. For i nstance, the nu mber of stop bits, an d number of data bi ts per
character.

The system designer must choose the best compromise of all the above items to ensure
the most efficient method of data transmission.

Modbus

®

Protocol

This selection configures the PAD driver with options automatically set to implement the
Modbus® protocol, e.g., 5 msec timer.

Custom

Other configurations of the PAD driver can be selec ted via the “Custom ” button which dis­plays a dialog box to permit selection of several configuration options as follows:

– SLIP/DIAGNOSTICS

SLIP is a well-known protocol for transferring binary data packets over a data link.

Each data packet is del ineated by <FEND > characters, and a substitu tion mechani sm

exists that allows these characters to be included in the data packet.

The diagnostics controller package uses the SLIP protocol to communicate between

base station and remote modems.

NOTE: The first character is always packetized and sent by itself regardless of all the
above variables.

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Figure 4-6 Packet Layer Configuration

– DNP-3/IEC 870

This selection configures the PAD driver to implement the DNP-3 Protocol and

IEC 870 Protocol.
– Pull-Down Menu Selection

The PAD driver can be c onfigu red for a num ber o f ven dor sp ecific proto cols by sel ect-

ing the desired option.
–Custom Format

This selection perm its PAD d river to be confi gured in a va riety of w ays and require s a

greater understanding of the system design.

For the modem to successfully transmit its packets (or frames) of data over the radio

channel, it must be told on what basis to delineate data packets received at the data

port. Once the end of a data packet has been received at the port the data frame is

closed and transmissi on over the radio chann el commences. Del ineation of data pa ck-

ets can be configured to occur via any combination of:

• A pre-defined minim um time delay between pa ckets received at the por t. Typically
the time delay would reflect the absence of a couple of characters in the data
stream at the specified user port baud rate.

• Limiting the maximum number of characters which can be put in the data frame
sent over the radio channel.

• Receipt of a selected End Of Mess age (EOM) char acter at the port. An ASCI I car­riage return (character 13) is often used for this purpose.

As each data frame to be transmitted over the radio channel has overhead data con­sisting of checksums and SID codes. The system designer must determine the best
compromise between the ratio of overhead versus us er data which depends on pack et
size and user data packet transmission latency.

The fields which can be configured are:

• Character Input Timer: Set the input timer value in milliseconds or enter zero to
disable. Range 0-255.

• Maximum Frame Size: Set the maximum number of characters or enter zero to
disable. Range 0-4095.

• EOM Character: Select the check box to the left of the description to enable and
enter the EOM character as a decimal value. Range 0-255.

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4.4.3.3 Port Hardware

The modem acts as Data Communications Equipment (DCE) and has the following inter­face signals:

– Data Carrier Detect (DCD) - Active when RF carrier is present.
– Request To Send (RTS) - TX PTT when RTS active
– Receive Data Output (RXD) - Received Data
– Transmit Data Input (TXD) - Transmit Data

4.4.4 RF Parameters

The RF Parameters section of the main window permits adjustment of transmitter and
receiver, radio channel modulation scheme, frequency trim and advanced features.

Figure 4-7 RF Parameters Configuration

4.4.4.1 Transmitter

The transmitter can be configured for transmit frequency and power level.

Frequency

The required transmit freq uency, in MHz, can be en tered in the dis play field. Th e program­mer checks that the selecte d freq uen cy is in the ran ge fo r the un it and pr ov ide s warn ing s
if outside an acceptable range.

Power Adjust

The currently selected transmit power is displayed below the “Power Adjust” button, in
dBm. The power level can be adjusted by selecti ng this button whi ch displays a dialo g box.
The up/down keys or a typed-in value can be used to select the required power level in
dBm steps.

Figure 4-8 Power Adjust

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There are two methods for setting the power.
– Using Factory Calibration

To use the factory calibration of the radio the desired power is set immediately using
the “OK” button in the dialog box. This method permits the transmit power to be set
without energizing the transm itt er.

– Using a Power Meter

To overcome manufacturing variations in the power setting a more accurate setting of
power can be achieved b y the select ing the “Test With M eter” button in t he dialog box .
This displays another dialog box warning the user that the transmitter is about to be
energized and the power meter used must be able to handle at least 10 W from the
modem.

Selecting “OK” in this warning dialog box energizes the transmitter which is also indi­cated by the red transmit LED on the unit. The power is adjusted using the up/down
keys until the required power level is obtained. Selecting “OK” retains the power set­ting and turns the transmitter off.

Selecting “stop test” stops the test but does not exit the “Power Adjust” dialog box.
“Cancel” stops the test and returns to the main window.

4.4.4.2 Receiver

The receiver can be configured for receive frequency and mute level.

Frequency

The required receive frequency in MHz can be entered in the display field. The program­mer checks that the selected freq uency is in the range for the part icular mo del of radio an d
provides warnings if not compatible.

Mute Adjust

The mute level sh ould b e set t o ass ist the unit i n filte ring ou t u nwanted signa ls. U nwant ed
signals can be the result of background nois e or interference. The mute level should be s et
at a level above these unwanted signals and at a level low enough to detect the wanted
signal. Detection of a received signal above the mute le vel is indic ated by the “RxSig” LED
on the unit.

Figure 4-9 Mute Adjust

NOTE: Although the transmit pow er has been adjusted it must be written to the unit using
the modem “Write” function to ensure it is retained after the unit is rebooted.

NOTE: Although the transmit pow er has been adjusted it must be written to the unit using
the modem “Write” function to ensure it is retained after the unit is rebooted.

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The currently select ed mute lev el is di splayed in the mai n window bel ow the “M ute Adjust ”
button, in dBm. The mute level can be adjusted by selecting this button which displays a
dialog box. The up/d own keys, or a t yped in value, c an be used to select the req uired mute
level in dBm steps. While a session is in prog res s w i th a uni t the mu te level adjustment is
live. Selecting “OK” retains the mute level setting. Note that, although the mute level has
been adjusted, it mus t be written to the un it using the “Write” funct ion to ensure it is re tained
after the unit is rebooted.

Due to normal manufac turing var iation s the ac tual m ute lev el ma y vary by seve ral d Bm to
that selected. If a more acc ura te ad jus tm en t is req uired an unmodulated sign al of the co r­rect frequency and desired threshold level can be applied to the radio modem’s antenna
connector.

4.4.4.3 Modulation

The currently selected modulation scheme is displayed in the main window below the
“Select” button. The m odulation sche me can be adjuste d by selecting this button which dis ­plays a dialog box. The desired modulation scheme can then be selected from the pull­down menu in the di alo g b ox and ret ain ed us ing the “OK” button. Please sel ec t th e m odu ­lation scheme as directed by the license conditions or suggested by the local regulatory
authority.

Figure 4-10 Modulation Selection Screen

4.4.5 System Parameters

The System Parameters section of the main window configures the PTT control, collision
avoidance, stream set up for routing of data, advanced feature s an d p rov ide s un it info rma­tion.

PTT (Press To Talk) Control

RF transmission can be configured to occur permanently, automatically on data received
at Port 1 or Port 2 (FL Series only), or RTS being asserted on Port 1 or Port 2 (FL Series
only). A PTT timeout facility can be co nfi gure d to lim it the period for which the transmitter
is enabled. Each option is selected by settin g the control to the left of the description on the
main window. When PTT is active the Tx LED on the unit is illuminated and RF power is
being fed to the antenna.

Auto On Data

Selecting Auto On causes the transmitter to be enabled (keyed) automatically on data
received at Port 1 or Port 2 (FL Series only) and includ ed in a complete frame for transmis­sion over the radio channel. The maximum period that the transmitter will be enabled is
limited by the PTT timeout setting.

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From Port 1 RTS

This causes the transmitt er to be enabled (keyed) on Port 1 RT S being asserted. T he max­imum period for which t he transmi tter will be en abled is l imited by the PTT time out setting .
Applications which rely on establishing a link ahead of data being transferred require this
method of activation.

PTT Timeout

The PTT timeout faci lity is used to disable t he transmitte r if it excee ds the desi gnated time.
The timeout value can range from 1 to 255 seconds and the facility is disabled by setting
a zero value.

The timeout value chosen for this should be set ac cording to system requirements which
may include:

– Prevention of a remote unit rema ining keyed up and locki ng out all oth er remot e units

in a point to multipoint system.

– Limiting the period a remote unit remains keyed up to prevent battery drain in a low

power application.

Figure 4-11 Diagnostics Options Screen

4.4.5.1 Diagnostics Setup

Automatic Diagnostic Reports

This option allows the configuration of automatic diagnostics. This option automatically
appends diagnostics m essages wh en user data is transmitte d. This option ca n be toggled
on and off by clicking the “Enable” button.

Minimum Report Interval: Specifies the amount of time before a diagnostics message is
appended to the next user data message.

Diagnostic Stream: Specifies the SID code used for the automatic diagnostics message.
Controller Destination Address: Specifies the address of the Diagnostics Controller Soft-

ware that is receiv ing the automatic mes sages and display ing them. This value m ust match
that specified in the RAD-Link 400 Diag nos tic s software configuration.

For more information see section "Diagnostics" on page 6-3.

NOTE: If a PTT timeout o ccurs before c ompletion of a data transmis sion data will be lost.

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4.4.5.2 Unit Information

The information d isplayed i s intended to assist the user t o identify the radio m odem as we ll
as support should their services be needed.

Radio Model refers to the type of unit.
Radio Type refers to the frequency band support ed by the rad io. For example 51H002

is a type 51 band radio.
Serial Number is uni que to each unit an d is set with in the unit at time of p roduct ion as

well as included on the label fixed to the unit.
Firmware Pack refers to the firmware package versi on installe d in the radi o. There are

several components associated with micro controller firmware installed and a single
version number is used to identify them.

Figure 4-12 Unit Details

More detailed information is also available to assist in identifying components installed in
the unit.

The additional information provided is:
– Controller Rev refers to the mi cro co ntroll er firmwa re com ponent versi on for th e radio .
– RF Deck ID refers to the RF deck board identification number and hardware revision

information inside the radio.

– Production Build Code refers to the automated production test and calibration se-

quence used during manufacturing.

– TX and RX Frequency Range indicates the fre que nc y ran ge fo r wh ich the ra dio is ca -

pable of being operated in.

4.4.6 Messages

The message window provides a log of error messages occurring during use of the pro­grammer utility. Several error messages may occur as a result of a selection.

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4.4.7 Status Bar

The status bar is located at the bottom of the main window and provides information
regarding communication actions occurring with the radio data modem.

Additional fields located on the status bar include:
– Unit ID refers to the identification labe l used by the diagn ostics uti lity. Thi s is currently

the same as the unit’s serial number.

– Mode refers to the type of sess ion establi shed. It can be a File, Local indicating a lo cal

port connection to the unit or Remot e indicating c ommunications is via a radio chan nel.

– A rotating bar progress indi cator show ing data is being tra nsferred t o or recei ved from

a unit.

4.5 RAD-UHF-FL Programmer

4.5.1 Main Window

When first started , the prog rammer i s in file mode as indica ted by the mode field a t the bo t­tom right of the panel (Fi gure4-13). In this mode it is possible to open a prev io us ly sa ved
configuration file, or c onfigu re vario us prog ramming op tio ns and sav e the con figurat ion to
a file.

To commence programming a unit a session must first be established by clicking the
“READ” button. This function reads the current configuration from the unit and displays it
in the main window. Several options in the main window ma y be blanked out until a session
is established with a unit.

The procedure to follow for normal programming of unit is:

• Read unit

• Configure parameters (or open a previously saved configuration file)

• Write unit

Several modems of th e s am e ra dio ty pe ca n b e programmed with the s am e c on fig uration
using the clone facilit y described in Clone Mo de. It is important to note that whe n using this
facility the cloned radio should be of the same type to ensure it does not operate outside
its capability.

NOTE: Modulation type is not available in this mode.

NOTE: Changing any item on t he me nu do es n ot take effect until data is written bac k to
the unit clicking the “WRITE” button.

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Figure 4-13 Main Window

4.5.2 Pull-Down Menus and Toolbar Buttons

The items on the pull-down menus can be selected either directly with a mouse or using
the <Alt> key in combination with a HOT KEY, for example , <Alt> + <F> to select the “File”
menu. Several of the functions within each menu are also available on the toolbar (click
once to select).

Figure 4-14 Programmer Toolbar

4.5.2.1 File Menu

The “File” menu al lows the u ser to lo ad (open) or save c onfigurat ion data as well as to q uit
the program. The files are saved with a “.cfg” file extension

Open (also available on the toolbar)
This function is used to load an existing configuration file that can be used to directly pro-

gram the radio or to use as a starting point to edit configuration parameters. Note that a
session must be establi shed w ith the u nit by ini tially readin g the conf igur ation pa ramete rs
from the unit prior to being written to a unit.

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In file mode, the modulatio n type is display ed. If in local/remote mo de and a file saved fro m
local/remote mode is opened, the modulation type is imported and used, but only if it is
valid for the connected hardware. If not, the unit’s read modulation type is used.

Save (also available on the toolbar)
This function is used to sa ve the c urrent co nfigura tion para meters to a file fo r future rec all.
In “file mode” only basic RF, Port and System parameters are saved and recalled. In

local/remote mode then modulation type is saved and recalled.
Print (also available on the toolbar)
This function prints out the configuration data to the default printer in a standard format.

There are no options for this item.
This should be used if a complete record is required for site/unit configuration. Firm-

ware/Modulation/Diags/Hardware type are all printed.
Exit (also available on the toolbar)
This function terminates the program. The user is requested to confirm this selection

before exiting the application.

4.5.2.2 Modem Menu

The “Modem” menu allo ws con figurat ion da ta to be rea d f rom an d wr itten t o the unit u sing
the selected PC serial port connection (see “Settings” o n page 4-21). The action of reading
the configuration establishes a session with the unit. Communications is maintained with
the unit to ensure that the session remains open. If the session is lost due to data trans­mission errors or d is co nne cti on of th e programming cable it needs to be re-es ta blished to
ensure any updated configuration is written successfully to the unit.

Read (also available on the toolbar)
This function establi shes a session w ith the unit, read s configuration data from the unit and

displays it in the pro gram m er m ai n wi ndo w . Wh en se lec te d, a dialog box appears pro mp t­ing the user to c hoose whether th e unit to read is local (co nnected directly to the serial p ort)
or remote (connected over th e air to the unit conn ected to the serial p ort). The Unit (Serial)
No. must be entered and the stream SID code is “on” (default = 0).

After configuration data is read from the unit it is available for editing and writing back to
the unit or saving to a file. The pr ogress of data transfer to or from the uni t is indi ca ted by
a message window as well as a rotating indicator in the bottom right-hand corner of the
main window.

Figure 4-15 Read Unit Dialog Box

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Write (also available on the toolbar)

This function writes conf iguration data displa yed in the main window to the unit and reboots
the unit. When select ed a dial og window appe ars prompting the user to confirm whethe r to
proceed. A progress indicator in the bottom right-hand corner of the main window is dis­played while data is being read. This se lec tio n is on ly av ail able if a session has been pre­viously established and maintained with the unit.

The “Confirm Modem Wri te” d ial og b ox prov id es a fac il ity for r eve rsi ng a ny rem ote co nfig­uration changes that cause unexpected results. The configuration reverts to the previous
configuration if contact is lost.

– Choose “Make changes and res ume contact” to safeguard c hanges. Some parameter

changes (such as f requency ch ange) will, by definitio n, automat ically resul t in lost con ­tact.

– Choose “Make changes anyway and fin ish” to complete inte ntional changes which will

result in lost contact.

Figure 4-16 Confirm Modem Write Box

Figure 4-17 Last Chance Write Box

After configuration dat a is written, the session with the uni t is clo se d an d th e programmer
reverts to file mode.

Cancel Session (also available on the toolbar)
This function closes the sessi on with unit and put s the programmer back in to file mode. All

configuration change s are disc ard ed inc lu din g ch ang es to Pow e r Adjus t and M ute Adj us t.
Wizard (also available on toolbar)
This function permits the user to selec t standard confi gurations after th e configuration f rom

a unit has been read or a file opened.

NOTE: In general, any change made on the programmer screen must be written to the
unit (using the write fun ction) to become perm anently stored. However, change s to Pow­er adjust, Mute adjust , and TX/RX trim take immedia te effect to allow test and adjustment
prior to permanent storage via the write fun cti on.

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Figure 4-18 Configuration Wizard Selection Dialog Box

The user is prompted vi a a series of dialog win dows to select the de sired configurati on that
can then be written to the unit.

Figure 4-19 Typical Wizard Configuration Box

Clone Mode

The Clone Mode function permits writing of the same configuration data to several units.
This feature is normally used for configuring data radio modems connected locally.

The procedure is:

1. Read the configuration from the first unit.

2. Configure the parameters (or open a previously saved configuration file).

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3. Select the “Modem… Clone Mode” menu.

4. Write the configuration to the first unit (the changes take effect when unit is re-pow­ered).

5. Connect the next unit.

6. Write the next unit which e stabli shes a s essi on and recogniz es the unit s erial numbe r
and type, which then configures the unit.

7. Re-power the unit for changes to take effect.

8. Repeat the last 3 steps for the remaining units.

4.5.2.3 Settings

The “Settings” menu permits selection of the PC serial port (COM1 to COM4) to be used
for communications with the unit. COM 1 is the default s election and, if a differe nt port is to
be used, it must be set before establishing a session by reading the configuration from a
unit. While a session is established with a unit this menu cannot be accessed.

4.5.3 Port Configuration

Data from these two user ports is multi ple xed fo r tran sm is si on o ve r the air. Each port can
be configured se parately for the Characte r layer (Da ta speed, number of data bits, num ber
of stop bits, parity), Packet layer and Handshaking (flow control). Port 2 must be enabled
if required by setting the check box at the top of its configuration section.

Figure 4-20 Standard Port Configuration Screen

The following descriptions are common to both ports.

4.5.3.1 Character Layer

There are two stand ard format s and a c ustom fo rmat that c an be se lected by checking the
appropriate radio button to the left of the description. The standard formats are:

• 9600, N, 8, 1 (data speed = 9600 bps, no parity, 8 data bits, 1 stop bit)

• 4800, N, 8, 1 (data speed = 4800 bps, no parity, 8 data bits, 1 stop bit)

A non-standard format can be se lected via the “Custo m ” button that di splays a dial og box
to permit selection of da ta speed , parity, number of data bits and stop bits. On ce select ed
the “OK” button should be used to c omplete the selection. The custom selection i s also dis­played in the main window below the “Custom ” button.

Figure 4-21 Non-Standard Configuration Screen

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4.5.3.2 Packet Layer

There are two standard co nfi gura tio ns and a c us tom con figuration which can be selected
by checking the ap propriate radio button to the left of th e description. There are e ssentially
two basic modes of operation for the Packet Assembler and Disassembler (PAD).

The first is where the PAD operates in a standard mode with data received at the port being
immediately sent over the radio channel.

The second is a st ore and forward or d elayed mode where whole data pac kets are received
from the port before being sent over the radio channel.

In both cases data is se nt over the radio chan nel in vari able leng th frames an d delinea tion
of these frames is dependent on the configuration selected as well as the characteristics
of the data stream received at the data port.

The packet layer configuration options which can be selected are:

Standard (Live Framing)

With standard live framing data received from the host by the modem is immediately
placed into a frame and transferred onto the radio channel. This avoids placi ng “store and
forward” delays in the data transmission.

If a stream of characters is receiv ed by the mode m, then seve ral characte rs at a time may
be placed into the same frame. The num ber of charac ters in the fram e depends mai nly on
the respective baud rates o f the user port and the primary channel baud rate of the mo dem,
as well as the level of overheads experienced on the radio channel and the user data
stream.

For example, a constant stream of 300 baud user data placed onto a 9600 baud channel
results in 1 character per frame being transmitted. If the user baud rate is increased to
9600, N, 8, 1 with a continuous d ata str eam, t he fram e siz e se ttles to abou t 16 charact ers
plus 32 overhead bits. If colli sion avoida nce i s enab led as mas ter, the averag e frame size
increases to 32 characters plus overhead bits.

The number of data bits associated with the user data stream also has an effect on the
average size of a frame. For i nstance, the nu mber of stop bits, an d number of data bi ts per
character.

The system designer must choose the best compromise of all the above items to ensure
the most efficient method of data transmission.

Modbus

®

This selection configures the PAD driver with options automatically set to implement the
Modbus

®

protocol, for example, 5 msec timer.

Custom

Other configuration s of the P AD d riv er c an b e s ele cte d v ia t he “C u sto m” b utto n whi ch dis ­plays a dialog box to permit selection of several configuration options as follows:

– SLIP/DIAGNOSTICS

SLIP is a well-known protocol for transferring binary data packets over a data link.
Each data packet is del ineated by <FEND > characters, and a substitu tion mechani sm
exists that allows these characters to be included in the data packet.

NOTE: The first character is always packetized and sent by itself regardless of all the
above variables.

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The diagnostics controller package uses the SLIP protocol to communicate between
base station and remote modems.

Figure 4-22 Packet Layer Configuration

– DNP-3/IEC 870

This selection configures the PAD driver to implement the DNP-3 Protocol and
IEC 870 Protocol.

– Pull-Down Menu Selection

The PAD driver can be c onfigu red for a num ber o f ven dor sp ecific proto cols by sel ect­ing the desired option.

–Custom Format

This selection perm its PAD d river to be confi gured in a va riety of w ays and require s a
greater understanding of the system design.

For the modem to successfully transmit its packets (or frames) of data over the radio
channel, it must be told on what basis to delineate data packets received at the data
port. Once the end of a data packet is received at the port, the data frame is closed
and transmissio n over the radio chann el commenc es. Delineat ion of dat a packets c an
be configured to occur via any combination of:

• A pre-defined minim um time delay between pa ckets received at the por t. Typically

the time delay would reflect the absence of a couple of characters in the data
stream at the specified user port baud rate.

• Limiting the maximum number of characters which can be put in the data frame

sent over the radio channel.

• Receipt of a selected End Of Mess age (EOM) char acter at the port. An ASCI I car-

riage return (character 13) is often used for this purpose.

As each data frame to be transmitted over the radio channel has overhead data con­sisting of checksums and SID codes. The system designer must determine the best
compromise between the ratio of overhead versus us er data which depends on pack et
size and user data packet transmission latency.

The configurable fields are:

• Character Input Timer: Set the input timer value in ms or enter zero to disable.

Range 0-255.

• Maximum Frame Size: Set the maximum number of characters or enter zero to

disable. Range 0-4095.

• Minimum Frame Size: Se t the maximum numb er of characters or ent er zero to dis-

able. Range 1-255. Only available when AES Encryption is on.

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• EOM Character: Select the check box to the left of the description to enable and

enter the EOM character as a decimal value. Range 0-255.

• LIVE Framing: Select the check box to the left of the description to enable live

framing mode.

4.5.3.3 Handshaking (Packet Modes Only)

If the standard PAD is selecte d, in othe r words, an y settings apart fro m SLIP/Dia gnosti cs,
then flow control can be either hardware handshaking, XON/XOFF protocol or none.

The Handshaking section of the screen allows the selection of either of the handshaking
methods as well as allowing handshaking to be disabled.

Details of the two handshaking methods are provid ed as follows.

Hardware

The modem acts as Data Communications Equipment (DCE) and supplies to the host con­troller the following interface signals:

The host controller must act as Data Terminal Equipment (DTE) and supplies to the
modem the following interface signals:

• DCD
DCD has several modes of operation. It is set to TRUE when data is being transferred

from the modem to the host - RXD line active. The signal is asserted approximately
500 ms before the start b it of th e first cha racter i n the da ta stre am and remains f or ap­proximately 1 characte r after th e las t bit in the data s trea m. Th e oth er mo des of ope r­ation are dependent on the advanced settings.

•DSR
DSR is permanently set to TRUE.

•CTS
The CTS is a signal from the mo dem to t he host inform ing the host tha t the mo dem is

able to accept incoming data on the TXD line. It responds to the actions of the RTS
line similar to the operation of a “standard” line modem.

The CTS is FALSE if the RTS line is FALSE. Once the RTS line is set to TRUE (sig­nalling that the hos t wants to send some data to the modem on the TXD line), the CTS
will be set TRUE within 1 ms, if the modem is capable of accepting more data.

The CTS line is set to F ALSE if the tran smit buff er in the mo dem exc eeds 4075 bytes,
or the number of queu ed fr ames exc eeds 29 to en su re that n o overf low con dition can
occur.

NOTE: Handshaking is not s upported when us ing Bell 2 02 mode s. The XON/ XOFF fl ow
control is not supported when using the SLIP/Diagnostics protocol.

Data Set Ready (DSR)
Data Carrier Detect (DCD)
Clear To Send (CTS)
Receive Data Output (RXD)

Data Terminal Ready (DTR)
Request To Send (RTS)
Transmit Data Input (TXD)

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•RTS
The RTS line is used for two re asons : the first is to asse rt the CTS li ne in res ponse to

RTS; or the RTS line can be used to key up the transmitter stage of the modem.

•DTR
The DTR line is used for flow control of data being sent from the modem to the host

controller. When the host i s able to a ccep t data i t sets this l ine to T RUE, and if data is
available within the modem, it is sent to the host. If the host cannot accept any more
data, it sets the DTR to FALSE and the modem stops all transmissions to the host.

• XON/XOFF
If the flow control mechan ism is XON/XOFF th en the modem u ses the standard ASCII

control codes of DC1 {^Q=11(Hex)=17(Dec)} for XON and DC3
{^S=13(Hex)=19(Dec)} for XOFF. The DTR input line is totally ignored.

Advanced

The “Advanced” button p rovides access to t he advanced featu res of the port config uration.
When selected a dialog box appears which permits selection of the source for the Port 1
DCD output signal.

Figure 4-23 Advanced Port Configuration

Disabled

Check the “Disabled” radi o b utton to disable the DCD outp ut o n th e port. This selection is
not permissible if hardware-based flow control has been selected.

RF Carrier Detect

Check the “RF Carrier Detect” radio button for DCD to be asserted at the onset of an RF
signal that is higher than the mute setting. This will generally occur several milliseconds
before data is transmitted from the port.

Data Detect (RS-485 Flow Control)

Check the “Data Detect” radio button for DCD to be asserted when data is about to be
transmitted from the port. This option is not available if handshaking is set to “None” or
“Xon/Xoff”.

NOTE: There is no substitution mechanism employed in the XON/XOFF protocol, so
care must be take n when transferrin g binary data to e nsure that invalid flow c ontrol ch ar­acters are not generated.

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4.5.4 RF Parameters

The RF Parameters section of the main window permits adjustment of transmitter and
receiver, radio channel modulation scheme, frequency trim and advanced features.

Figure 4-24 RF Parameters Configuration

4.5.4.1 Transmitter

The transmitter can be configured for transmit frequency and power level.

Frequency

The required transmit frequency in MHz can be entered in the display field. The program­mer checks that the selecte d freq uen cy is in the ran ge fo r the un it and pr ov ide s warn ing s
if outside an acceptable range.

Power Adjust

The currently selected transmit power is displayed below the “Power Adjust” button, in
dBm. The power level can be adjusted by selecti ng this button whi ch displays a dialo g box.
The up/down keys or a typed in value can be used to select the required power level in
dBm steps.

Figure 4-25 Power Adjust

There are two methods for setting the power.
– Using Factory Calibration

To use the factory calibration of the radio the desired power is set immediately using
the “OK” button in the dialog box. This method permits the transmit power to be set
without energizing the transm itt er.

NOTE: Although the transmit pow er has been adjusted it must be written to the unit using
the modem “Write” function to ensure it is retained after a power on reset.

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– Using a Power Meter

To overcome manufacturing variations in the power setting a more accurate setting of
power can be achieved b y the select ing the “Test With M eter” button in t he dialog box .
This displays another dialog box warning the user that the transmitter is about to be
energized and that the po wer meter used should be ab le to handle at least 10 W from
the modem.

Selecting “OK” in this warning dialog box energizes the transmitter which is also indi­cated by the red transmit LED on the unit. The power is adjusted using the up/down
keys until the required power level is obtained. Selecting “OK” retains the power set­ting and turns the transmitter off.

Selecting “stop test” stops the test but does not exit the “Power Adjust” dialog box.
“Cancel” stops the test and returns to the main window.

4.5.4.2 Receiver

The receiver can be configured for receive frequency and mute level.

Frequency

The required receive frequency in MHz can be entered in the display field. The program­mer checks that the selected freq uency is in the range for the part icular mo del of radio an d
provides warnings if not.

Mute Adjust

While the modem is capable of receiving extremely weak radio signals and successfully
extracting the data content from the w aveform s, the mute le ve l shoul d be set to ass ist the
modem in filterin g out unwanted sign als. Unwanted signals can be the result of backgrou nd
noise or interfer ence. The mute leve l should be set at a level abo ve these unwanted signals
and at a level low enough to detect the wanted s ignal. Detection of a received signal a bove
the mute level is indicated by the “RxSig” LED on the unit.

Figure 4-26 Mute Adjust

The currently select ed mute lev el is di splayed in the mai n window bel ow the “M ute Adjust ”
button, in dBm. The mute level can be adjusted by selecting this button which displays a
dialog box. The up/d own keys, or a t yped in value, c an be used to select the req uired mute
level in dBm steps. While a session is in prog res s w i th a uni t the mu te level adjustment is
live. Selecting “OK” retains the mute level setting. Note that, although the mute level has
been adjusted, it mus t be written to the un it using the “Write” funct ion to ensure it is re tained
after the unit is rebooted.

NOTE: Although the transmit pow er has been adjusted it must be written to the unit using
the modem “Write” function to ensure it is retained after the unit is rebooted.

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4.5.4.3 Modulation

The radio modem utilizes a DSP to control the modulation of trans mi t sig nal s an d de mod ­ulation of receive d signals. This provides greater flexib ility in the ability of t he radio mod em
to support new modulation schemes while maintaining compatibility with existing modula­tion schemes.

The currently selected modulation scheme is displayed in the main window below the
“Select” button. The m odulation sche me can be adjuste d by selecting this button which dis ­plays a dialog box. The desired modulation scheme can then be selected from the pull­down menu in the dialog box and retained using the “OK” button.

Figure 4-27 Modulation Selection Screen

The type of modulation available for selection is dependent on the model of radio. Modu­lation types are sorted using the following criteria: Radio Mode (FL Series, SL Series, or
Legacy) and over the air speed (300 bps, 600 bps, 9600 bps, 19.2 kbps).

Legacy Modulation Schemes: Some modulation types are specifically for backwards
compatibility, such as Bell 202. These legacy modes should only be chosen when back­ward compatibility is required as their performance is inferior to the generic modulation
schemes (bandwidth and RF sensitivity).

4.5.5 TX/RX (Frequency) Trim

The currently selected frequency trim, which is common to both transmitter and receiver,
is displayed in the ma in window be low the TX/RX Trim Adjust button, in Hz. The freq uency
trim can be adjusted li ve by selec ting this button w hich display s a dialog box . The up/down
keys can be used to select the required frequency offset in steps pre-determined by the
radio modem. Selectin g “OK” retains the frequency t rim setting. Note that, althoug h the fre­quency trim has been adjusted, it must be w ritten to NVRA M using the mode m “Write” func ­tion to ensure it is retained after the modem is rebooted.

Figure 4-28 Frequency Trim

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This facility permits correction for drifts in the frequency reference caused by component
aging. For example, a standard oscillator may vary in fundamental frequency operation
over 1 year by one part per million. An adj ustment ran ge of ±10 ppm, dis played in Hz, has
been allowed for. If this is insufficient, the unit should be returned to Phoenix Contact for
re-calibration.

4.5.5.1 Advanced

Figure 4-29 Advanced Modulation Selection Screen

The “Advanced” button permi ts se ttin g of adv an ced modulation features. When selected,
a dialog box appears which permits configuration of various parameters.

Non-Packet Mode Setup (Non-Packet and Bell 202 Mode Only)

CTS Delay: the amount of time between RTS enabled to CTS active.
PTT Hold: the amount of time the transmitter remains enabled after RTS is disabled.
PTT Delay: the amount of time between RTS enabled and the transmitter becoming

active.
Transmit Tail Suppression: Minimizes unuseable characters at end of transmission.

Receiver Full-Duplex

This check box is currently not available.

4.5.6 System Parameters

The System Parameters section of the main window configures the PTT control, collision
avoidance, stream set up for routing of data, advanced feature s an d p rov ide s un it info rma­tion.

PTT (Push To Talk) Control

RF transmission can be configured to occur permanently, automatically on data received
at Port 1 or Port 2, or RTS being asserted on Port 1 or Port 2. A PTT timeout facility can
be configured to limit the period for which the transmitter is enabled. Each option is
selected by setting t he control to the le ft of the descrip tion on the main wi ndow. When PTT
is active the “TX” LED on the u ni t is ill um in ated an d R F po w er i s being fed to the antenna.

Permanent TX
This check box is currently not available.

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RAD-UHF…

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PHOENIX CONTACT 2313_en_A

Auto On Data

This causes the transmitter to be en abled (keyed) automa tically on data rec eived at Port 1
or Port 2 and included in a complete frame for tra nsmission over the radio channel. The
maximum period the transmitter will be enabled is limited by the PTT timeout setting.

From Port 1 (or 2) RTS

This causes the t ransmitter to be enabled (keyed ) on Port 1 (or 2 ) RTS being asse rted. The
maximum period the transmitter is enabled is limited by the PTT timeout setting. Applica­tions which rely on esta blishing a link ah ead of data be ing trans ferr ed requi re this m ethod
of activ ation.

PTT Timeout

The PTT timeout faci lity is used to disable t he transmitte r if it excee ds the designa ted time.
The timeout value can range from 1 to 255 seconds and the facility is disabled by setting
a zero value.

The timeout value chosen for this should be set according to system requirements which
may include:

– Prevention of a remote unit rema ining keyed up and locki ng out all oth er remot e units

in a point to multipoint system.

– Limiting the period a remote unit remains keyed up to prevent battery drain in a low

power application.

Stream Setup

The “Strea m Setup” button brings up a dialog box to permit editing of Stream IDentifier
(SID) codes which are used by the mode m as the address ing me chani sm for da ta strea m
routing. An SID code can be placed at the start of each data frame as it is sent over the
radio channel. The receiving modems use this code to determine how to route the data
message. The modem supp orts simul taneou s ope ration of both Port “1” and Port “2” ov er
the one radio link, along with the inclusion of a diagnostics data stream.

Each port is independent and supports multiple options which are described in the follow­ing sections.

Figure 4-30 illustrates the structure of the stream routing function for each data port.

Figure 4-30 Stream Configuration

NOTE: If a PTT timeout o ccurs before c ompletion of a d ata transmis sion data will be lost.

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Programming

2313_en_A PHOENIX CONTACT 4-31

User Port

This option is selected by clic king the “User Port” rad io button and fi lling in the RXSID and
TXSID fields to the right. The radio comes preconfigured with default values.

In User Port mode all SID code operations are performed transparently to the user data.
Data placed into a us er po rt an d as s ign ed a sp ec ifi ed SID c od e wil l o nly be rec eiv ed by a
modem at the other end of the radio link t hat ha s a us er port ass ign ed with the same SID
code. The SID code is added by the radio modem to the user data stream, and removed
by the radio modem when user data is outputted to a data port. In this way, Port “1” and
Port “2” can be assigned different SID codes, thereby separating the data streams.

Two SID codes values are available for each user port RXSID and TXSID. The RXSID
codes apply to the data being rec ei ve d by th e modem, and the TXSID codes apply to the
data being transm itted by th e mod em. T his a llows for dif fere nt tran smit and re ceive cod es
if required, but generally they would be both the same.

A situation where TX a nd RX SID codes may be d iff eren t i s in a re pea ter configuration. In
this type of applicatio n all da ta mes sages se nt to t he repea ter will b e “repeat ed.” Thus, by
having different TX and RX codes, a control unit will not “hear” its own transmission, and
remotes will not hear the reply from any other remote.

The diagnostics facil ity als o uses SID codes . The dia gnost ics da ta sim ply us es a dif ferent
data stream to the user data, but is processed internally by the modem. If access to the
diagnostics facility is required, similar to when the diagnostics utility is used with the
modem, then the data port concerned and the diagnostics stream, must have the same
SID codes assigned to them. Alternatively, the System port can be used, which is

19.2 kbps and uses the SLIP protocol.

Trunk Streams

In the Trunk Streams mode, data that is inputted into the modem for transmission must
have a SID code appended to the start of the data packet. This mode requires the use of
a “SLIP” interface as configured using the packet layer.

Trunk Steam mode is norm ally used in conjun ction with RA D-Link 400 software when con­necting radios together, such as the back-to-back connections used in multiple point-to­point links.

Figure 4-31 Translate and Repeat Streams

In Trunk Stream mode a range of SID codes can be transmitted and received via a data
port. The range is spe cified w hen Trun k Stream mode is se lected . In a ty pical app licat ion ,
such as a back-to-back co nnection as used in a mul tiple point-to-point link s, where all data,
including diagnostic s, from o ne radio needs to be “trunke d” throug h to the oth er radio, the

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RAD-UHF…

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PHOENIX CONTACT 2313_en_A

range used is 0 to 255. Trunked mode allows a configurable selection of data streams to
be “trunked” to other equipment, yet the data remains separated as the SID codes are
appended to each packet of data outputted.

Repeat/Translate Configuration

The modem is cap able o f oper atin g in a repe ater m ode. Ea ch us er po rt can be c onfigu red
as a separate repeater. The associated user ports are effectively disconnected from the
“outside world” when in repeater mode. Data received from the radio channel is passed
directly to the transmitter, and placed back onto the radio channel.

The repeater must re ceive a co mplete frame of data before it is retransmi tted. In som e sys­tems this store and forward delay may be significant, and careful selection of maximum
frame sizes configured at the source unit must be considered to minimize the delay.

To enable the mode sel ect “R epea t Range ” in the Ty pe fi eld, and s pecify the range of SID
codes that will be repeated.

Translate Streams

The Translate Steams func tion is similar to rep eat streams. Howev er, it also transla tes the
SID code from one value to another as the repeating function occurs.

This mode can be used to uncontrolled data repeating in system where more than one
repeater is required, such as store and forward systems or pipe-lines.

Figure 4-32 Diagnostics Options Screen

4.5.6.1 Diagnostics Setup Packet Modes Only

Polled Diagnostics

The Diagnostics Processor can be configured to listen for diagnostics on a range of SID
codes. The factory default is SID code 0 (From Stream 0 To Stream 0). The diagnostics
responses are sent back over the same stream as the questions.

Diagnostics Repeat is toggled on and off by clicking the radio button. Some applications
require that a repeater unit in a point-to-multipoint system repeat diagnostic frames only.

This is the case when the system diagno stics controlle r is connected to a remote unit in th e
system, and it pol ls the sys tem popul ation fr om this poin t. The mas ter unit mu st retra nsmit
any diagnostic frames tha t are not addresse d to itself onto the remai nder of the populat ion.

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Programming

2313_en_A PHOENIX CONTACT 4-33

Automatic Diagnostic Reports

The Automatic Diagnostic Reports option allows the configuration of automatic diagnos­tics. This option auto ma tic al ly appends diagnostics m es sa ges whe n u ser data is transmit­ted. This option can be toggled on and off by clicking the “Enable” radio button.

Minimum Report Interval: Sp ecifie s the amou nt of ti me be fore a diagno stics mes sage is
appended to the next user data message.

Diagnostic Stream: Specifies the SID code us ed for the auto matic dia gnostics messag e.
Controller Destination Address: Specifies the address of the Diagnostics Controller

Software that is receiving the automatic messages and displaying them. This value must
match that specified in the RAD-Link 400 Diagnostics software configuration.

4.5.6.2 Encryption Setup (Packet Modes Only)

Figure 4-33 Encryption Setup

128-bit AES Encryption can be enable d in the radio. Ra dios that have 128-b it AES encryp­tion enabled can only communicate with other radios that have AES encryption enabled
and use the same encryption key.

AES Encryption is enabled by selecting the “Enabled” radio button and entering an
“Encryption key.” The “En cryption key” must be b etween 8 and 16 chara cters long. The key
can contain ASCII or h exadecimal ch aracters. When ente ring hexadecimal characters, the
format must be “0xDD” where DD is a sequence of hexadecimal digits. (0-9, A-F).

– When a radio configuration is read from a radio that already has AES encryption en-

abled, the encryption key is shown as ************** in the programmer to indicated en­cryption is enabled. Since there is no mechanism to see the encryption in plain text,
ensure that the encryption key is recorded in a safe and secure place for future refer­ence.

4.5.6.3 Collision Avoidance (Packet Modes Only)

In a point-to-multipo int syste m the m aster u nit (us ually a base statio n) can t ransmi t at any
time and all the remotes receive the broadcast signal. However, if more than one remote
unit transmits at a t ime, a col lision will occ ur dur ing th e mu ltiple tra nsmiss ions, resul ting in
a loss of data from one or more units.

NOTE: When AES encryption is enable d in the radio , both Port 1 and 2 pack et la yer set­tings may be modified to ensure compatibility with AES encryption mode.

2313A035

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RAD-UHF…

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PHOENIX CONTACT 2313_en_A

Two collision avoidance mechanisms are included in the modem. The standard (Digital)
method utilizes a signal ling channel w hich is embedded in overhead data tran smitted over
the radio channel. The second method utilizes detection of a carrier signal to postpone
transmission of dat a. Both metho ds require c onfigurati on of severa l options fo r succes sful
operation.

Select the desired metho d for collision avoi dance by checking the appropriate radio button .

None

When selected this turn s off all collisi on avoidance mechanisms . This should only be used
in point-to-point applicat ion s.

Figure 4-34 Collision Avoidance

Digital

This is the standa rd met hod o f coll ision avo idanc e and utili zes a “c hanne l bus y” in dicati on
bit in the signalling c hannel transm itted to a ll remot es for con trol. Whe n selec ted, a di alog
box appears and several options must be configured:

• Mode – “Master” or “Remote ”. When the master unit r eceives a valid transmis sion from
a remote unit, it set s the channel busy ind ication b it. This b usy bit is in terpreted by the
other remotes to not transmit. Once the transmission from the first remote ends the
master unit resets the busy bi t to indicate th e channel is now cle ar to transmit on . The
master unit, which is normally a base station, takes about 5 ms to detect a transmis­sion from a remote unit and set the channel busy indication bit on the radio channel.
During this period collisi on of remo te transm issions c an still occur and is unav oidable.

• Backoff Method – “Retry afte r TX Attem pt” or “Del ay be fore TX Atte mpt”. T he met hod
chosen is system-depe ndent an d can on ly be c onfigu red if the mo de is “remot e.” Th e
former is best used when data res ponses from remotes are large ly asynchronous. The
latter is best used when this is not the case.

• Backoff Timing – “Max imum S lots,” “T ime pe r Slot.” Thi s can onl y be c onfigu red if th e
mode is “remote.” When a re mote is ready to trans mit data but it find s the busy bit from
the master set, it holds back its transm ission for a random “backoff ” time after wh ich it
tries to transmit data aga in . This ens ure s tha t mo dem s wai t in g to be allo w ed to trans ­mit do not re-attempt to do so at the same time. The “Maximum Slots” (1 to 16) and
the “Time per Slot” (1 to 255 ms) are used to calculat e the bac koff time by multi plying
the slot time by a random number between 1 and the maximum slot number. For ex­ample, if the time per slot is 30 ms and the maximum slots is 4, the random backoff
times can be 30, 60, 90 or 120 ms.

NOTE: The master must be permanently keyed.

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Programming

2313_en_A PHOENIX CONTACT 4-35

As the channel busy indication bit is critical for reliable operation, default interpretation of
this bit is defined in the rem ot e uni ts . If the mas ter mod em sto ps tr ans mi ss io n (or ha s not
yet started), the remote wil l inte rpret th at the chann el is busy and wi ll not tran smit unt il the
master comes on line.

Carrier Detect

The Carrier Detect method of collision avoidance utilizes a carrier transmitted to all
remotes to indicate that the radio channel is busy. When selected a dialog box appears
and several options must be confi gured:

• Mode – “Master” or “Remote .” When the master unit r eceives a valid transmis sion from
a remote unit, it transmit s a carrie r signal to indica te bu sy. Of course, the mast er also
initiates a transmissi on if it has data to sen d. The trans m itte d ca rrier i s int erpreted by
the other remotes to not transmit. Once the transmission from the first remote ends,
the master unit stop s trans miss ion to indicate the chann el is now clea r to trans mit on.
The master unit, which is normally a base station, takes about 5 ms to detect a trans­mission from a remote unit an d transmit a ca rrier signal. During this perio d collisio n of
remote transmissions can still occur and is unavoidable.

• Backoff Timing – “Max imum S lots,” “T ime pe r Slot.” Thi s can onl y be c onfigu red if th e
mode is “remote.” When a rem ote is read y to transmit data but it detec ts a ca rrie r sig ­nal from the master set, it holds back its transmis sion for a random “backoff” time afte r
which it tries to transmit data again. This ensures that modems waiting to be allowed
to transmit do not re-atte mpt to do so at the sam e time. The “Maxim um Slots” (1 to 16)
and “Time per Slot” (1 to 255m s) ar e used t o calcula te th e backoff tim e by multi plyin g
the slot time by a random number between 1 and the maximum slot number. For ex­ample, if the time per slot is 30 ms and the maximum slots is 4, the random backoff
times can be 30, 60, 90 or 120 ms.

4.5.6.4 Unit Information

The information d isplayed i s intended to assist the user t o identify the radio m odem as we ll
as support should their services be needed.

Figure 4-35 Unit Information Screen

– Radio Model refers to the type of unit.
– Radio Type refers to the frequency ba nd supported by the radio as well as the channe l

bandwidth. For example 51F01 is a type 51 band with a 12.5 kHz channel.

– Diags Installed is set to yes or no depending on whether the diagnostics feature is

functional in the unit.

– Serial Number is unique to ea ch uni t and i s set with in the unit at time of produ ct ion as

well as included on the label fixed to the unit.

NOTE: The master can only be a full-duplex unit and cannot be permanently transmit­ting. For half-duplex and simplex systems all units should be set as “Remote” (no Mas­ter).

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RAD-UHF…

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PHOENIX CONTACT 2313_en_A

– Firmware Pack refers to the firmware package version ins talled in th e radio. There are

several components associated with micro controll er and DSP firmware installed and
a single version number is used to identify them.

More detailed information is also available to assist in identifying components installed in
the unit.

Figure 4-36 Unit Details Screen

Clicking the “Details” button provides the following:
– Controller Rev refers to the microcontroller firmware component version for the radio.
– DSP Code Rev refers to the DSP firmware component version for the radio.
– Processor Board ID refers to the p rocessor board iden tificatio n number and hardware

revision information for the radio.

– RF Deck ID refers to the RF deck board identification number and hardware revision

information inside the radio.

– Production Build Code refers to the automated production test and calibration se-

quence used during manufacture of the radio.

– Hardware indicates whether the radio is half or full-duplex.
– Unit Type indicates whether the unit is recognized as a remote radio.
– TX and RX Frequency Range indicates the fre que nc y ran ge fo r wh ich the ra dio is ca -

pable of being operated in.

4.5.7 Messages

The message window provides a log of error messages occurring during use of the pro­grammer utility. Several error messages may occur as a result of a selection.

4.5.8 Status Bar

The status bar is located at the bottom of the main window and provides information
regarding communication actions occurring with the radio data modem.

Additional fields located on the status bar include:
– Unit ID refers to the identification label us ed by the diagnos tics utility. Thi s is the same

as the unit’s serial number.

– Mode refers to the type of sess ion establi shed. It can be a File, Local indicating a lo cal

port connection to the unit or Remot e indicating c ommunications is via a radio chan nel.

– Rotating bar progress indicator showing data is being transferred to or received from

a unit.

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Section 5

2313_en_A PHOENIX CONTACT 5-1

This section informs you about
– troubleshooting radio problems

Troubleshooting..............................................................................................................................5-3

5.1 RAD-UHF… Radio.............................................................................................5 -3

5.1.1 Power ..................................................................................................5-3

5.1.2 Received RF Signal.............................................................................5-3

5.1.3 Data Port Transfer ...............................................................................5-3

5.1.4 Radio Errors........................................................................................5-4

5.1.5 Antenna Alignment and RSSI Testing.................................................5-4

5.1.6 Link Establishment and BER Testing..................................................5-5

5.1.7 Performing a Loop Back Test..............................................................5-6

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RAD-UHF-…

5-2 PHOENIX CONTACT 2313_en_A

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Troubleshooting

2313_en_A PHOENIX CONTACT 5-3

5 Troubleshooting

5.1 RAD-UHF… Radio

Bi-color LEDs are us ed to indica te the opera tional statu s of the ra dio. If a p roblem is found,
further testing can be performed.

LEDs are provided to indicate 12 V DC power, the prese nce of an RF signal , and the trans­fer of data, either RX or TX. The LEDs illuminate as either red or green and as either a
steady-state or flashing.

5.1.1 Power

Normal operation is ind icated by th e Pwr/T X LED illu minat ing a s teady -state g ree n after a
self-diagnostic test at power-up. During normal operation this LED flashes red to indicate
transmit functions across the antenna.

If the LEDs are off, verify that power is reaching the radio modem. Check the DC power
connector for correct voltage (10-16 V DC) and polarity. Check any fuses.

5.1.2 Received RF Signal

The Synch/RXSig LED i ndi cates a radio sign al ha s bee n dete ct ed. If the signal c ann ot be
decoded, it is illuminated solid red. When the incoming signal is decoded with a good Bit
Error Rate (BER), the LED flashes green during the receive process. When not receiving
data it returns to a solid red.

If a signal cannot be locked, the antenna connection and alignment should be checked.

5.1.3 Data Port Transfer

The TxD/RxD LED indi cates the trans fer of serial d ata across RS-232 data ports to t he con­nected networks. When data is transferring from the radio modem to the connected net­work, the LED flashes green when transferring (TX) data and red when receiving (RX)
data. Note that the FL radio has an LED for each port.

If data is being sent to the radio modem and the TxD/RxD LED does not flash RED, this
may indicate a wiring or configuration problem. Check that the TX and RX data lines are
correctly wired.

Also check that character set and parity settings, i.e., N, 8, 1, etc., are identical at the ter­minal and radio modem . Note that some incorrect setti ng s of the character set parameter
can still produc e transmi ttable data e ven t hough the data wi ll no t be un der stood by the ap­plication.

NOTE: A brief time o f re d i ll um ina tio n m ay o ccur before green illumin atio n as th e s ig nal
is initially decoded. The LED may appear orange as the signals alternate between red
and green.

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RAD-UHF…

5-4

PHOENIX CONTACT 2313_en_A

5.1.4 Radio Errors

Internal radio managemen t software monitors m any aspects of the radio h ardware. Under
certain circumstances radio faults may prevent normal operation. In the event that these
fault conditions occur, the radio enters an ERROR state, indicated by flashing ALL LEDs
red, then flashing a patte rn of gre en LED s. The p attern o f green L EDs repre sents the spe ­cific type of error that has occurred (Table 5-1).

All other patterns indica te seri ous ha rdware erro rs that c an onl y be fi xed by an auth orize d
service center. Please record this pattern and return the result with the service return in­formation.

5.1.5 Antenna Alignment and RSSI Testing

Once the RXSig LED is lit, it is possible to confi rm RX signal strength and align a directiona l
antenna by monitoring the RSSI output.

This DC voltage appears at Pin 9 of Port 1 (SL radio) or Pin 9 of Port 2 (FL radio).
A ground reference can be obtained from chassis ground or Pin 5 of a data Port.
Figure 5-1 shows Pin 9 voltage as it relates to signal strength.

Table 5-1 LED Error Codes

Error Diagnosis Pwr/TX

Synch/

RXSig

Port 1

RxD/TxD

Port 2 (FL only )

RxD/TxD

External Voltage Supply out of
range

1

green off off off

VCO out of lock

2

off green green

RX VCO out of lock

3

off green green off

TX VCO out of lock

3

green off green off

1) If external voltage is too high (>16 VDC) radio damage may occur. If the external voltage is too low (<10 VDC)
the radio may not operate within specifications.

2) SL only. If this error occurs the radio must be return ed for service.

3) FL only. If the radio receiver or transmitter frequencies are programmed outside the specified frequency ranges,
normal radio operation may not be possible. In this case, use the software to set the receiver and/or transmitter
frequencies to be within the specified range. If this error occurs and the frequencies are within the specified fre­quency ranges, the radio must be returned for service.

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Troubleshooting

2313_en_A PHOENIX CONTACT 5-5

Figure 5-1 Analog RSSI Output Characteristics - RAD-UHF-SL-… Data Radio

Figure 5-2 Analog RSSI Output Characteristics - RAD-UHF-FL-… Data Radio

5.1.6 Link Establishment and BER Testing

Once communications are established, it is possible to confirm the packet error rate per­formance of the radio path and estimate the BER figure.

There are a numbe r of tools provided to do this. T he easiest is to use the “indic ative packet
error test” provided wi thin the RAD-Link 400 software und er “statistical performance tools”.
Alternatively, it is poss ib le to use H yperTerm in al® or other packet test in stru me nts , or PC
programs to run end-to-end or perform “loop back” testing.

0

0.5

1

1.5

2

2.5

3

3.5

4

4.5

5

-120 -110 -100 -90 -80 -70 -60 -50 -40

Received RF Level (dBm)

User Port RSSl (DC Volts)

0

0.5

1

1.5

2

2.5

3

3.5

4

4.5

5

-120 -110 -100 -90 -80 -70 -60 -50 -40

RF Level (dBm)

RSSI (DC Volts)

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RAD-UHF…

5-6

PHOENIX CONTACT 2313_en_A

Please note that when using a “lo op back plug” some unders tanding of the packetizi ng pro­cess is necessary , sin ce ea ch “tes t mes sage ” must be ca rried i n a single packe t fo r mean ­ingful results to be obtained.

Note also that in PTMP systems, allowance must be made for collision potential if other
data is being exchanged on the system.

5.1.7 Performing a Loop Back Test

A loop back test ca n be performed to ensure that dat a is making the round t rip from a m as­ter to slave and bac k to t he maste r. The t est in vo lves shorti ng pin s 2 a nd 3 o n the RS -232
port of the slave radi o and sending chara cters via a termi nal program into the m aster radio.
If operating properly, the characters sent will be echoed back to the terminal program.

Figure 5-3 Loop Back Test Connections

Perform the following:

1. Connec t a PC to the master radio and run a terminal program with the COM port set­tings of the PC matching the port settings on the master radio.

2. Connect a Loop Back Test connector to the RS-232 port on the slave radio.

3. Apply power to both radios and verify the radio link by observing the RXSig LED.

4. Type characters into the term inal pr ogram. If th e test is suc cessful , the chara cters ap ­pear on the terminal program. If not successful, the screen is blank. Observe the
TX/RX LEDs on each radio to determine how far the data is going.

DCE

1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9

N/C

TX
RX

N/C

GND

N/C
RTS
CTS

N/C

54321

9876

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Section 6

2313_en_A PHOENIX CONTACT 6-1

This section informs you about
– how to diagnose using the RAD-Link 400 Diagnostics software
– how to connect to a da tabase

Diagnostics.....................................................................................................................................6-3

6.1 Introduction ........................................................................................................6-3

6.1.1 Features ..............................................................................................6-3

6.2 Main Screen.......................................................................................................6-4

6.3 Operating Instructions........................................................................................6-4

6.3.1 Main Menu...........................................................................................6-4

6.3.2 Modem Connection.............................................................................6-5

6.3.3 Introduction (Polled Diagnostics ).........................................................6-5

6.3.4 Introduction (Automatic Diagnosti cs)............................ ...... ..... ...... ......6-6

6.3.5 File Menu.............................................................................................6-6

6.3.6 Settings Menu....................................................................................6-13

6.3.7 Polling................................................................................................6-23

6.3.8 Data Logging.....................................................................................6-25

6.3.9 Tools..................................................................................................6-28

6.3.10 Interpreting Poll Results....................................................................6-31

6.4 Open Database Connectivity (ODBC)..............................................................6-33

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6 Diagnostics

6.1 Introduction

The RAD-Link 400 Diag nostics so ftware uses the Windows® operating system and can be
run on a standard desktop or laptop PC. The softw are offers many opti ons and confi gura ­tions which are easily accessible via pop-up windows. These include group or timed poll­ing, remote switching of duplica ted base stati ons, viewing o f databases, l ogging and trend ­ing of real time parameters, etc.

It is for use in conjunction with the RAD-UHF… data radio modems. The diagnostic facili­ties allow retrieval of critical radio parameters from each radio modem.

The use of the diagnostics fa ci liti es prov ide d by the c ontro ll er giv es the rad io mod em sys­tem designer and operator a powerful tool for both the maintenance and fault finding in a
system.

The gener al operating para meters that can be obtained from rem ote modem units are:
– Last RSSI level.
– Last transmitted power level.
– Receive frequency offset (FL Series only).
– Power supply voltage level.
– Current internal temperature.

These are displayed on the controllers screen in a “quick read” format of bar graphs, as
well as detailed response listings.

6.1.1 Features

– 32-Bit Windows Operating System User Software.
– Full graphical presentation.
– Full SCADA style features such as database, trending, networking, etc.
– Able to interrogate and displ ay im port ant operating parameters of each radio modem.
– Provides performance data of any radio modem - good frames received, bad frames

received, packet error rate, transmitted packet sizes, channel usage, etc. (FL Series

only).
– Provides statistical Packet Error Rate (PER) performance calculations for any unit.
– Provides powerful network tools such as channel occupancy statistics, average re-

ceived transmission duration, etc.
– Can be set to background poll rad io syste m for con tinuous system monitorin g and log -

ging.
– Provides full time/date stamped Statu s and Ala rm loggi ng/repo rting. A rel ational data-

base is created and managed using the Microsoft Jet Database Engine Ver 3.5. The

database file, whi ch is an “.mdb” file, can be accessed with external programs su ch as

Microsoft Access

®

.

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6.2 Main Screen

From the RAD-Link 400 software main screen click “Diagnostics” and the Diagnostic
screen appears.

Figure 6-1 RAD-Link 400 Diagnostics Screen

6.3 Operating Instructions

6.3.1 Main Menu

When the Diagnostic controller starts, a presentation screen is displayed followed by the
main diagnostics screen. This is where all the major functions of the controller are
accessed.

The main screen presents the operator with the typical Windows operating system pull­down menu bars: “File,” “Settings,” etc. Icons of the most commonly used selections are
also provided across the top of the screen.

This screen is divided into three main sections:

1. Status Polls displays all poll results obtained.

2. Alarms displays any alarms that occur.

3. Base Station Activity displays any changeovers that occur with Hot Stand-by Base

Stations within the system.

NOTE: Automatic Diagnostics “Status Polls” appear as cyan in color.

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The line above th e Status Polls s creen is a “Proces sing Statu s B ar.” It di splay s mess ages
about errors, warnings, and poll processing.

The bottom row of the screen also displays a summary of t he configure d parameters, such
as which COM port is being used, whether SID codes are on or off, whether polling is
enabled or disabled, current database path and file name, etc.

6.3.2 Modem Connection

The diagnostics control ler norm ally conn ects v ia a COM p ort on the c ontroll er PC and the
“System Port” on the radio modem (the Data port can be used if desired).

The modem port must h ave its SID codes enabl ed and have the SID code set to the system
diagnostics SID (normally this is se t to “00”).

The data format used is the SLIP protocol, running at 19200 baud, No parity, 8 data bits
and 1 stop bit.

6.3.3 Introduction (Polled Diagnostics)

The diagnostics proc ess is ba sed on a se ries of polls being transmi tted to the rem ote radio
modem with each having its own unique assigned address (based on the serial number)
which is preset at the factory.

When a diagnosti c pol l i s rec eiv ed by a ra dio m odem, it checks to s ee if it is addressed to
itself and, if so, i t res ponds wi th the dia gnosti c da ta ba ck t o the RAD- Link 400 Diagn ostic s
software. If it is not address ed to itself, th e radio mode m simply “passes the message on,”
and does not respond to the diagnostics software. In a multi-layer system, several “pass
on’s” may occur before the destination radio modem is reached.

The radio modem’s diagn ostic resp onse me ssage i s addres sed to the RAD- Link 4 00 Diag­nostics software and, as each radio modem in the “chain” decodes this message, it will
“pass it back.” Eventually, the message reaches the RAD-Link 400 software for process­ing.

The RAD-Link 400 software uses a database to hold the radio modem unit’s associated
data (serial numbe r, assigned name, l ocation, alarm limits, SID co de address, bas e station
pairing information, status poll response data , alarms, etc.).

The radio modem’s add ress is the serial n umber of the radio modem which is pr eset at the
factory. The name is any name that the user wishes to attach to the radio modem. This
name is then used to address the unit for access to diagnostic facilities.

The responses from the radio modem must have boundary limits placed on them. If a
response is outside thes e limits , an alarm is raise d. For ins tance, the DC supply volts c an
have a lower limit of 12 V and an up per limit of 1 6 V. Should a re spons e to a poll receive d
show that the DC volts is at 11 V, an alarm is reported.

A radio modem can be excl ude d from a poll sequence by remo vin g it f rom the po ll gr ou p.
Intensive polling of a single radio modem is possible using the Individual polling facility.

NOTE: The control ler can connec t to any port of any data ra dio modem withi n the system
provided the data radio port is configured accordingly. When “Settings” is selected, the
controller interrog ates the com puter’s CO Ms ports a nd displa ys the av ailable p orts. Pos­sible valid COM ports are 1-16 or “None.” Choose the desired port. None allows you to
free the COM port for use with other programs without exiting the diagnostic.

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A poll “run” can be set up. A time can be designated for the controller to poll each of the
modems in the sy stem. Th is may be u seful for s ystems that have a low traffic pe riod where
diagnostics can be “slotte d in,” t here by spread ing th e da ta throu ghput of the s ystem m ore
efficiently.

The screen is divide d into three main scrolling sect ions: Status Poll s, Alarms and Base Sta ­tion Activities. The sta tus pol l sec ti on di sp lay s c urren t pol l ac tiv ity whil e the al arm sec tion
displays any polls alarms which have been reported.

A relational database is created and managed using the Microsoft Jet Database Engine.
The database file, which is an “.mdb” file, can be accessed with external programs such as
Microsoft Access. All polls and alarms are time and date stamped and saved to the data­base. All database entries can be sorted and printed.

For some multi-layer systems, Stream Identifier (SID) codes may have to be added to the
diagnostic data packets. Each radio modem can be assigned a SID address (the default
is 00) and the SID code feature enabled.

In RAD-UHF-FL… radios the diagnostic con troller of each radio stores packe t statistics for
later retrieval. The Diagnostic controller softw a re us es th es e sta t istic s t o ca lcu la te pa ck et
and bit error rates, network efficie ncy, bandwi dth utiliza tion, and radi o link integri ty. These
network analysis features are an invaluable tool for larger networks.

6.3.4 Introduction (Automatic Diagnostics)

Automatic diagnostic s allows the monitoring of ra dios in a n etwork withou t the need to gen­erate a poll.

The data returned in automati c diagnostics is fixed in nature and inclu des the five standard
parameters. Automati c di agn os tic s wo rks by app end ing an unsolicited, fixed- form at, d iag ­nostic data packet to the end of a us er data message. Subsequently, automa tic diagnostics
can only work when user data is being transferred by the radio modem.

Automatic diagnost ics is useful in situations fo r polled diagno stics could interfere with us er
data transfer and cause collisions. For more information on configuration of automatic
diagnostics, see section "Programming" on page4-3.

6.3.5 File Menu

To utilize the Remote Diagn ostics facilities, a databa se must be created which incl udes the
individual serial numbers , alarm parameters , and various other pa rameter s for each radio
modem (this applies to both polled and automatic diagnostics).

The “File” menu al lows the operato r to create a New database, Open an existing d atabase,
Add/Edit/Delete a database or View an existing database. All such database tools utilize
standard, Windows-type for mats for file selec tions as shown below.

NOTE: For automatic diagnostic messages to be processed by the RAD-Link 400 soft­ware, the unit must be configured in the database. Automatic diagnostic response can
be identified in the “status poll” window by cyan-colored text.

NOTE: Not all options are available for some types of radio modems. Where these op­tions occur, they are noted.

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New/Open

Figure 6-2 File Menu

These options allow creation of a new database or opening of an existing database file.
When creating a new database the nam e of the new database file must be entered . After
creation the software automatically goes to the “File… Add/Edit/Delete” menu.

Add/Edit/Delete

After creating a New database or Opening an existing database, the “Add/Edit/Delete”
menu is enabled. Select this option to add radios to the monitoring database.

Figure 6-3 Individual Unit Database Setup

Selected Unit

Selected Unit is a pull-do wn selectio n box for select ing a radio modem to view or edit. Thi s
is blank if no radio modems exist in the database.

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Radio Unit Name and Location

A name for the radio modem is required an d must be unique (max. 20 chara cter). Location
allows the user to enter descriptions of sites and their locations (max. 20 characters).

Radio Unit Serial Number

The serial number is a unique, factory-preset serial number of the radio modem. This is
obtained from the label located on the radio modem or read from the radio modem using
the Programmer software.

SID Code (Diagnostic Stream Identifier)

This is the SID code addres s number u sed by the r adio mode m for the dia gnostics stream
and is normally set to 0. This mus t ma tch the diagnostics streams ID as conf igu r ed in the
radio modem.

In complex systems, units in a network can be separated into different areas by using dif­ferent SID codes for each area.

In systems using Automatic Diagnostics, this SID code must match the SID code as con­figured in the FL radio configu ration programmer.

Model

This allows select ion of the type o f radio mod em unit be ing adding to the datab ase. Select
RAD-UHF-FL-RS232-BD or RAD-UHF -SL-RS23 2-BD as requ ired. Uni t selectio n is eith er
Base or Remote.

Communications Port

Select either serial (RS-232 serial data communications using COM1, etc.) or eDiags
(Ethernet) mode. When in serial mode, the standard serial communications port is used
(see “Controller Settings” on page 6-13 for more configuration options).

When eDiags mode is selec ted the remote IP address and port numb er must be speci fied.
This is normally be the IP addres s and destinati on port numb er for a termin al server or sim ­ilar device operat in g i n UD P con ne cti on mode (see section 6 .3.6.6 “eDiags Port Settin gs ”
for information on configuration).

Alarm Limits

These configuration options allow the user to set thresholds for each radio modem. If the
thresholds are exc eed ed, the dia gnostics software de cl ares tha t th e rad io m od em ha s an
alarm. Default settings are provided for remote devices and base stations.

The alarm limits available for custom configuration are:
– Temp = Internal Modem Temperature, in degrees Celcius
– RXSig = Receiver RF Signal Strength, in dBm
– TXPwr = Transmitter RF Power, in dBm
– DC Volts = Radio Modem Supply Voltage
– AFC Freq (FL Series Only) = Radio Modem Frequency Error, in Hz
– VSWR (FL Series Only) = Antenna Voltage Standing Wave Ratio

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Defaults Drop-Down Box

Choose either “Remote Modem Defaults” or “Base Station Defaults” from the drop-down
list. To over-ride the default limits, adjust the limits as required, and then click “Save Cus­tom Limits.” The default values for the type of unit selected, either base station or remote
modem, are now updated with the new limits.

Add New Button

Click this button to ad d a ne w radi o mod em to the data base. The Selec ted R adio M odem,
Name, Location, Radio Modem Serial numbers are cleared, ready for the entry of a new
radio modem. After filling in the details, click the “Apply Changes To Database” button to
complete entry.

Apply Changes to Database Button

Saves changes made to selected radio modems in the database. Additions and changes
made on the scree n do not result in c hanges to the data base unless this bu tton is activated.
This must be done before selecting a new serial number/unit.

Delete Button

Allows deletion of radio modems from the database. Deleting a radio modem from the
database deletes all of its associated status poll and alarm history.

A selection list of seri al n um be r s a ppe ars . Sel ect one or a group at a time and the n press
the “Delete” button on the selection box.

Exit Button

Press the “Exit” button to exit the “Add/Edit/Delete” menu.

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Advanced

Click the advanced button to modify advanced radio unit settings.

Figure 6-4 Advanced Settings

Alarm Priority: Radio modems can be configured as e ither High or Low priority (see “E-ma il
Alarm Reporting” on page6-15 and “Loc al Alarm Rep orting Setup” on page 6-17 for more
information on unit priority and alarms).

Poll Attempts: This parameter specifies the number of times a diagnostics poll (from the
diagnostics software ) is no t ans wered by a rad io un it be fore a No Ack al arm is ge nera ted.

Poll Response Timeout: This parameter specifies the time (in seconds) the diagnostics
software waits for a response to a diagnostics poll.

6.3.5.1 Radio View Details

Clicking the “File… View Unit Details” menu (Figure 6-5) shows the “selected unit” alarm
limits and last poll results (radio and firmware information). This screen will auto refresh
(every 6 seconds) if the unit selected for viewing is part of an active single or group poll.

Modem Control States:

Firmware: The current modem firmware version.
Calibrated: Indicates calibration status of diagnostics.

System Status:

Diagnostics: Enabled or Disabled
Base Station: Indicates if unit is a Remote or Base Station
Firmware Packs: (Base Only)
Radio: Base Station Firmware Version
Display: Base Station Display controller firmware version

NOTE: The Radio View screen is different for remote radios and Base Stations.

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Figure 6-5 Radio View screen

Last Poll Results:

Temp: Radio Temperature
Rx Sig: RX Signal Strength
Fwd PWR: Forward TX Power
Rev PWR: Reverse TX Power
VSWR: Voltage Standing Wave Ratio

- VSWR has white background when less than 2.0:1

- VSWR has yellow back ground when greater than 2.0:1 but less than 3.0:1

- VSWR has red background when greater than 3.0:1
DC Volts: Supply Voltage
Freq Error: RX Freq Error
Date: Date of Last Poll
Time: Time of Last Poll

6.3.5.2 Database Utilities

Several options exist under the database utilities. They are in a subset of the “File” menu.

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Figure 6-6 View Unit Summary List

The “View Summary of all Units” optio n shows a sum mary of all un its in the data base. This
list can also be printed for future refere nc e. The listed radio modems can be so rted using
any of the three columns.

The “Archive Between Dates” utilit y create s a n ew data base file ( .md b) with archiv ed d ata
from the selected dates.

Figure 6-7 Archive Between Dates

Make copy of database (radio info only)

This utility makes a copy of th e da tab as e with onl y radio modem information. Al l pre vi ous
diagnostic results (logged information) are removed from the existing database and then
copied to a new file name.

This is useful to copy a database from one PC to another as it results in a significantly
smaller file size or as a backup file.

Compact and Repair

This utility will compact and repair an existing database.

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6.3.6 Settings Menu

Under the “Settings” menu all configura ble parame ters for the R AD-Link 400 software can
be customized.

6.3.6.1 Controller Settings

Figure 6-8 Controller Settings

The “Controller Settin gs” dial og box allows t he user to confi gure vari ous se tup param eters
as divided into four sections.

Polling

Controller Address:

Normally set to 1 (default). Radio networks which have multiple
RAD-Link 400 software packages active must use different controller addresses or
system performance may be impacted. The range of controller addresses is 1 to 999.

Enable Trunk Stream Connection: Enabled or disabled (Default enabled). Most typical

FL and SL diagnostics connections require this to be enabled.

Auto Logging ON: When enabled all collected radio modem data is stored in the data-

base when polling is turned on.

Communications Port

COM Port: With the pull-down box, select the required communications port. COM 1 to

COM 16 are supported.

Speed: Select the re qui red COM p ort spe ed (96 00 or 1 9200 bps). Default is 1 920 0 b ps .

Alert Tones

When enabled emits a tone from the PC speaker or sound card when status poll alarms
occur or Base Station changeovers occur.

TX Power Display Units

Select either “dBm” or “milliwatts” as the display units. Power is displayed throughout the
system in the selected power measurement unit.

NOTE: For systems using Automatic Diagnostics, this address must match the diagnos­tics controller address as configured in the RAD-UHF-FL-… configur ation programmer.

NOTE: Power is always stored in the database file as milliwatts.

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6.3.6.2 Poll Settings

Figure 6-9 Poll Settings Dialog Box

The “Poll Settings” dialog box allows the configuration of items related to polling.

Poll Repetition Time

The Poll Repetition Tim e is th e time in seconds (2 to 360 0 s ec on ds ) between each status
poll of the group poll c ycle. Each u nit in the po ll group is polled, in turn, at this time interval .

Timed Polling

Timed Polling allows the user to schedule a period when the group poll will commence.
This is a useful feature for sy ste ms that have times of minimal traf fic load ing, such as the
early hours of the morning.

Start Time:

Time at which the Timed Poll cycle commences. The time format is as per

the regional settings of the operating system.

Number of Cycles: This is the number of times the controller cycles through the poll

group when the Timed Group po ll commences. Each un it in the poll group is polled thi s
number of times.

Apply Changes

Applies and saves the changes made to configuration items in this menu.

6.3.6.3 Poll Group Select

Figure 6-10 Poll Group Dialog Box

The “Poll Group” dialog box enables the adding and removing of radios in the automatic
poll group. Units in the Selection list box are available for adding to the poll group. These
units are polled during a group poll cycle.

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Units in the Poll Group list box are polled during a group poll cycle.
Clicking the “Save” button saves any changes in the poll group to the database.

6.3.6.4 E-mail Alarm Reportin g

This section of menu items allow the configuration of diagnostics e-mail alarm reporting.
This facility allows diagnostics alarms to be sent to a recipient via e-mail.

Figure 6-11 E-mail Settings

General

Enable E-mail Alarm Reporting:

If checked, enables diagnostics alarms to be sent via

e-mail.

Maximum Alarm E-mails per 24 hours: Spec ifies the maximum nu mbers of e-mail alarms

that the diagnostics software will generated in a 24-hour period.

E-mail Alarm Reset Time: The time at which all “maximum e-mail” counters are reset.

Default value is 00:00 (Midnight).

Reset E-mail Alarm Counters: Allows the manual reset of all e-mail alarm counters.

High and Low Priority Units

The e-mail alarm reporti ng system can apply diff erent rules for units d efined as High or Low
priority in the database. Typically, a base station or other unit that is critical to the entire
operation of the network is normally def ined as high p riority. Other u nits are de fined as low
priority. The e-mail a larm report ing rules c an then be defined s o that tech nical su pport per­sonal will receive immediate notice of high priority units when a problem occurs.

NOTE: High and Low Priority unit rul es are impl ied in exactly the same wa y. This sectio n
of the user manual is applicable to both.

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Figure 6-12 High Priority Units Dialog Box

Alarm Event Counters: Each time diagnostics polls a radio for its paramet ers it compares

the returned result agains t the alarm limits defin ed f or tha t un it i n the database. Each
instance where the result is outside the defined limits is declared an alarm. This
parameter specifies the number of alarms (events) for a specific ra dio before an e -mail
alarm is generated.

Send E-mail after (n) alarms event s

: Specifies the numb er of individual rad io (unit) alarm

events before an e-mail ala rm is gen erat ed.

Reset Alarm counte rs afte r (n ) s uc ce ssful po ll ev en ts: Spe ci f ie s the nu mber of success-

ful radio polls before the e-ma il alarm s cou nters a re reset. So me radi os can generat e
alarms intermittently. In order to capture diagnostics alarms from intermittent radios
and generate e-mails, set this parameter so multiple successful polls are required
before the e-mail alarm reporting system declares there is no longer a problem with
that unit (radio).

E-mail Generation

: These parameters specify the rules associated with generating

e-mail’s on a per unit basis, i.e., specific to one particular unit.

Enable verbose content in e-mail: When checked e-mail alarms contain all diagnostics

parameters. When not chec ked, e -ma il alarms o nly co ntain th e radio pa ramete rs that
generated the alarm.

Minimum time between ala r m e-m ail ’s (per unit )

: Specifies the minimum time that must

expire before another e-mail is generated for the same unit.

Maximum E-mails per day per unit: Specifies the maximum number of e-mails per day

any one specific unit (when in the alarm condition) will generate. This parameter is
specified to prevent a flo od of e-mails whe n a radio unit does not reco ver from an error.

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Figure 6-13 E-Mail Addressing Dialog Box

E-mail Addressing

SMTP Server

: Specifies the SMTP server IP address.

Sender Address

: Specifies the e- mail addres s a di agnostic s al arm us es as th e “sen der ”

when reporting an alarm to recipients.

Sender Name: As per “Sender Address” but specifies the senders name.
Recipient(s)

: Specifies the e-mail address where e-mail alarms are sent to. Multiple

e-mail addresses can be specified, but must be separated with a comma.

CC(s): Additional e-mail recipients can bae added. See Recipient(s) above.
Login Authentication

: When checked, diagnostics will login to the SMTP server using

secure authentication.

Username & Password: Specifies the username and password to use when Login

Authentication is enable d (see above ) .

6.3.6.5 Local Alarm Reporting Setup

Local alarms are those dia gnostics alarms tha t are display ed in the Alarm s output win dow
on the PC screen. Diagnostics provides a configurable set of rules for displaying local
alarms in the alarm window.

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Figure 6-14 Local Alarm Reporting Setup Dialog Box

High and Low Priority Alarms

The rules associated with local alarm s can be specif ied for both high an d low priority u nits.

Alarm Event Counters

Display Alarm after (n) alar m event (s)

: Each time diagn os tic s po lls a ra dio fo r i ts pa ram ­eters it compares the ret urned result agai nst the a larm lim its as d efined for tha t uni t in
the database. Each i nst anc e wh ere the result is outside the d efi ned limits is declare d
an alarm. This parameter specifies the number of alarms (events) for a specific radio
before a local alarm is generated.

Sound Alarm after (n) display ed alarm event(s)

: This parameter allow s the audible alarm
sound to be triggered after a configurable number of local alarm events. The audible
alarm is useful to get the attention of PC or console operators.

Acknowledged Alarms

: When local alarms are displayed in the “Alarms” window (see
Figure 6-15) they are initia lly NO T ack nowledg ed. To ackno wled ge an a larm c lick the
check box in the left-most column of the local alarm reporting window.

Do Not Display Acknowledged Alarms

: When checked, acknowledged alarms are not
displayed in t he loca l alar m output window. When no t check ed, ack nowledg ed alarms
are displayed as black in the local alarm output window.

Do Not Sound Alarm

: When checked, acknowledged alarms do not cause the audible

sound to be triggered.

Clear Acknowledged Alarms: This specifies the period after which all acknowledge

alarms return to the unacknowledged state. Options are Never, Hourly, Daily, or
Monthly. Users must be careful of acknowledging alarms if the “Do Not Display
Acknowledged Alarms ” option is checked. Units tha t are alarming may disapp ear from
the system if acknowledged alarms are not regularly reset to unacknowledged.

Set Defaults

: This parameter returns all values to the factory default.

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Clear All Acknowledged Button: When pressed this button clears all acknowledged

alarms. It provides a manual mechanism to reset the acknowledged alarms to unac­knowledged.

Figure 6-15 Alarms Report

6.3.6.6 eDiags Port Settings

The “eDiags Settings” menu is used in conjunction with the settings configured in the ter­minal server or other Ethernet device that diagnostics is communicating with.

Figure 6-16 eDiags Setting Dialog Box

Computer Name

: This is the network name of the computer that the diagnostics software

is running on. It is provided for management purposes only.

Local IP: This is the IP a ddr ess of t he comput er tha t the dia gnost ics s oftwar e is run ning

on. It must match the des tination IP ad dress in th e terminal serv er or Ethernet d evice.
Ensure only fixed IP addresses are used (Not DHCP assigned addresses).

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eDiags Port Number: This is the UDP port number the diagnostics software uses for

Ethernet responses from the terminal server. It must match the destination port as con­figured in the terminal server or similar device.

6.3.6.7 Client/Server Setup

Monitoring the radi o network from m ultiple workstation s on a LAN network is possible usi ng
the networking facilities provided by the Diagnostics Controller.

File/Paths Setup

Before other parameter s can be configured a local da tab as e n eed s to be defined for both
the Client and Server PCs.

Figure 6-17 File/Paths Setup

When in Serv er mode the Diagnosti c controller uses an additional database file (.mdb) to
store Client information. This file is linked to the main radio database file.

This separate li nked file configuratio n permits a rchiving o f the main radio datab ase without
losing client configuration data.

Current Radio Database

: This displays the location and filename of the current radio
diagnostics database . This is provi ded for manage ment purpos es only and cann ot be
configured in this menu.

Client Database

: This specifies th e current c lient con figuration datab ase. Most of the fol­lowing parameters configured via the “Client/Server Setup” menu are stored in this
database.

Action

: This drop-down box allows the system administrator to perform several options:

• Create a new client configuration database

• Change to a different client configuration database

• Link client database to current radio database

Remote Client Groups

System administrators c an res tri ct rem ot e Cl ie nts to onl y vi ew radi o di agn ostics data of a
specific group of radio. Multiple group names can be defined.

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Figure 6-18 Remote Client Groups

Remote Clients

The “Remote Clients” tab allows individual remote clients to be configured for remote
access diagnostics information.

Figure 6-19 Remote Client

Client Name

: This option allows a descriptive name to be given to a client for manage-

ment purposes.

Group: This option a llows a clien t to have restri cted access to a specifi c group or acce ss

to ALL groups.

Password: This option allows a password protection system to be used for remote cli-

ents.

Port

: This option allows a UDP Port number to be specified for each client.

Add

: This option adds the currently selected remote client to the database.

Deleted

: This option deletes the currently selected remote client from the database.

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Radio Group Management

The “Radios” tab allows indi vidual rad ios to be adde d to a specific gro up. Please n ote that
a radio cannot be added to more than one group.

Figure 6-20 Radio Group Management

Local Host Settings

The “Local Host Settings ” ta b al lows the server UDP port and pa ss word to b e c onfigured.
The “server ” is the local host mach ine.

Figure 6-21 Local Host Settings

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6.3.7 Polling

6.3.7.1 Overview

In order to obtain d iag no sti cs information, the dia gno sti cs c ont roll er prov id es a number of
automatic polling fac ilities, which inc lude: Grou p Polling, Timed Poll ing and In dividual Poll­ing. The Group and Timed Poll facilities automatically cycle through a selected group of
units at a predete rmined in terval as s pecified in the “Po lling Set up” dialog box. Th e Individ ­ual Poll facility permits intensive pol ling of a single unit at a selectab le rate, indepen dent of
any Group Polling tha t may b e activ e at the t ime. In divid ual pol ling al so displ ays resul ts i n
a bar graph format.

When the modem is polle d for the first t ime, th e con troller polls (as ks) the radio for calibra ­tion constants and firmwa re revision (these can be view ed in the “View” wi ndow under the
“File” menu). When this initialization procedure is complete, status polling commences. If
the radio were to pe rform a “cold b oot” (l oss o f pow er, cold boot co mmand re ceiv ed, etc .),
the controller detec ts this and initia tes the above initi alization procedur e again and displa ys
“cold boot” alarm in “other”.

The status poll requests that are reported and displayed on the main screen are:

• Temperature

• Received Signal Strength

• Transmitter Power

• DC Supply Volts

• Received Frequency Error

• Time and date stamp

The line above Status Polls is a “Processing Status Bar.” It displays messages about
errors, warnings and poll processing.

Figure 6-22 Polling Report

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Alarms

If the controller recei ve s a s tatu s pol l w h ere the res ul t (Te mp , RX Si g, TX PWR, DC Volts
or Freq Err) is outside the user pr ogrammed alarm limits, the p oll is declared to be an Alarm
and the information is displayed in the “Alarms” area. Alarm conditions are declared after
three consecutive poll s sh ow an a larm . Thi s el im in ates the repo rting of erro neous alarms.

Other alarms (not rela ted to those mentioned a bov e) m ay als o c au se a n Ala rm con dit ion.
These polls are also d isplayed in the Alar m window with further de tails shown in the “O ther”
column. The alarm types are:

No Ack: Failed to respond to a diagnostics poll.
Re-Boot: Radio has been re-booted since the last received diagnostics poll.
Ports Halted: Radio ports have been halted.
Not Remote: Radio h as bee n con figured in the da tabase as a remote but is detec ted as

a base.

Not Base: Radio has been configured in the database as a base but is detected as a

remote.

ERROR: Unknown or unexpected error.

Group Polling

In Group Polling mode, all radios that are part of the Poll Group (see “Poll Group Select”
on page 6-14) are polled in succes sion. When diagnost ics reaches the last radio in the poll
group, it returns to the top of the list.

Results are displayed in the “Status Polls” window along with the Unit Name and Time of
the poll.

Timed Poll

In Timed Poll mode, RAD-Link 400 software waits until the specified Poll Time (see “Poll
Settings” on page 6-14) and then performs a group poll as per above. If configured, the
group poll is repeated until done and the software waits for another 24 hours until time
expires again.

Figure 6-23 Individual Polling Screen

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