Plessey EasyReach User Manual

EasyReach

SPREAD SPECTRUM RADIO

USER MANUAL

Handbook 1H90941

ISSUE 3 October 27, 1999

Plessey Asia Pacific Pty Limited

ACN 076-409-311

5 Talavera Road

NORTH RYDE NSW 2113

AUSTRALIA

1H90941 REVISION RECORD

REVISION No. AUTHORITY DATE INSERTED INITIALS

01 ECO E1983 30 Nov 98 RSR
02 ECO E2136 16 July 1999 MI
03 ECO E2209 27 October 1999 MI

© Copyright Plessey Asia Pacific Pty Limited.
This publication is copyright and all rights pertaining to it are reserved.
No part may be reproduced by any process without written permission.

EasyReach User Manual

1H90941 i

CONTENTS

FUNCTION 1

General Description.........................................................................................................1

Features ..........................................................................................................................1

SYSTEM CONFIGURATION 3

Equipment .......................................................................................................................3

Configuration...................................................................................................................4

Connections.....................................................................................................................6

Front Panel Indicators .....................................................................................................7

INSTALLATION AND COMMISSIONING 8

Conformance to Emission Requirements........................................................................8

Mounting the EasyReach Unit.........................................................................................8

Antenna Mounting ......................................................................................................... 10

Antenna Cable Ducting..................................................................................................10

Supply Connection ........................................................................................................11

AC Power Version................................................................................................................11

DC Power Version ...............................................................................................................11

RF Frequency Variants..................................................................................................11

Initial Switch-On .............................................................................................................12

Antenna Alignment........................................................................................................13

System Configuration ....................................................................................................14

OPERATION 15

Normal Startup Procedure.............................................................................................15

System Control and Monitoring .....................................................................................15

TROUBLESHOOTING 16

Status Indicators............................................................................................................17

POWER LED Not Green......................................................................................................17

FAIL LED is Red..................................................................................................................17

DATA LED is Red................................................................................................................17

RF SIGNAL LED is Red.......................................................................................................17

Error Table ...........................................................................................................................18

Bench Testing................................................................................................................19

INTERFACING THE EASYREACH 22

Control and Configuration Using EasyReach Element Manager...................................22

Interface Cable Configurations......................................................................................24

ALARM PORT FUNCTIONS 25
CO-LOCATION OF EASYREACH LINKS 27
ACCESSORIES 28

CONTENTS EasyReach User Manual

ii 1H90941

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS 29

System (E1 Version).....................................................................................................29

System (T1 Version) ..................................................................................................... 29

Transmitter....................................................................................................................30

Receiver........................................................................................................................30

Power Supply................................................................................................................ 30

Mechanical....................................................................................................................30

Compliance................................................................................................................... 30

TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE NOTES 31

Surge Protection for Radio Equipment.......................................................................... 31

General................................................................................................................................31

Surge Characteristics...........................................................................................................31

Methods of Surge Protection................................................................................................31

Standard Earthing Practices .........................................................................................33

FIGURES

Figure 1 EasyReach Equipment Setup (E1 Version)...................................................................4

Figure 2 EasyReach Equipment Setup (T1 Version)................................................................... 5

Figure 3 Front Mounting of EasyReach Unit ...............................................................................8

Figure 4 Rear Mounting of EasyReach Unit................................................................................8

Figure 5 Wall Mounting of EasyReach Unit.................................................................................9

Figure 6 Bench Testing Arrangement (E1 Version)...................................................................19

Figure 7 Bench Testing Arrangement (T1 Version)...................................................................19

Figure 8 Location of internal loopbacks.....................................................................................20

Figure 9 EasyReach Element Manager Startup Window ..........................................................23

Figure 10 ALARM Port Pin Configuration (Rear View) ................................................................25

Figure 11 DC Power Connector Pin Configuration (Rear View) ..................................................26

Figure 12 T1 Data Connector RJ48C (Rear View) ......................................................................26

Figure 13 Standard Earthing Practices at a Communication Site................................................33

TABLES

Table 1 RF Frequency Variants...............................................................................................11

Table 2 Default Settings of Operational Parameters................................................................14

Table 3 Error Condition/Status Indication Matrix......................................................................18

Table 4 Testing procedure using internal loopbacks................................................................21

Table 5 Interface Cable Pinout ................................................................................................24

Table 6 Rear Panel TERMINAL Port Pinout ............................................................................24

Table 7 ALARM Port Pinout.....................................................................................................25

Table 8 DC Power Connector Pinout.......................................................................................26

Table 9 T1 Data Connector Pinout...........................................................................................26

EasyReach User Manual

1H90941 iii

WARNINGS AND CAUTIONS

WARNING

RF RADIATION
RF ENERGY AT MICROWAVE FREQUENCIES IS PRESENT WITH THIS
EQUIPMENT. PERSONNEL SHOULD NOT BE EXPOSED TO HIGH RF
ENERGIES, AND SHOULD NOT BE IN FRONT OF THE ANTENNA WHEN THE
EQUIPMENT IS SWITCHED ON.

ALL ACCESSIBLE RF CONNECTIONS MUST BE TERMINATED WHEN THE
RADIO IS POWERED ON.

THE RADIO SHOULD NOT BE POWERED ON WITH ANY OF ITS COVERS
REMOVED.

CAUTION

Do not connect the antenna ports of two units directly together. Damage of
both units WILL result.

OPERATING WITHIN FCC GUIDLINES

The U.S. Federal Communications Commission (FCC), Section 15.247 excludes
the use of point-to-multipoint systems, omnidirectional applications, and multiple
co-located intentional radiators transmitting the same information. The
equipment should be professionally installed, ensuring that the system is used
exclusively for fixed, point-to-point operations and that the FCC radiated
emission guidelines are meet.

EasyReach User Manual FUNCTION

1H90941 1

FUNCTION

General Description

The Plessey EasyReach is a radio link platform that provides two-way full duplex
transport of 2Mbit/s (European) or 1.544Mbit/s (USA) of data between two points.
The design provides a reliable and cost effective solution for connecting
disparate communications facilities.

The Plessey EasyReach spread spectrum radio operates in the 2.4 GHz ISM
band. It does not require a spectrum management license in most countries.

The unit is constructed as a stand-alone chassis that can be used as a desktop
unit, or mounted either to a wall or in a 19-inch rack.

Product range

The EasyReach product range encompasses the following orderable variants:

E1 (2.048 Mbit/s) full duplex transport.
T1 (1.544 Mbit/s) full duplex transport.
DC Power supply.
AC Power supply.

Features

The Plessey EasyReach has the following features:

• Multiple link capability:
Up to three EasyReach links can operate from a single mast. With careful

site planning, more links can be installed at a single site.

• EasyReach Element Manager:
The Element Manager is a software package which allows the user to

control and monitor monitor the status of the radio using a PC, and
provides the means by which a link may be configured for special
requirements.

• Loopback facilities:
Loopback facilities are available to aid system commissioning and for

checking the integrity of the equipment connected to the link.

• DC supply version:

INSTALLATION EasyReach User Manual

2 1H90941

The DC supply version of EasyReach can operate from supply voltages of
+20 to +60 volts or -20 to -60 volts.

• AC supply version:
The AC supply version of EasyReach can operate from nominal mains

voltages between 110 and 240 volts AC and frequency between 50 and 60
Hertz.

EasyReach User Manual SYSTEM CONFIGURATION

1H90941 3

SYSTEM CONFIGURATION

Equipment

The following equipment is supplied as a Plessey EasyReach radio system:

• Two EasyReach units each supplied with a mains power cable (for
units to be powered from AC) or a DC supply mating connector (for
units to be powered from DC).

• User manual.

• Element Manager software package on 3.5-inch floppy disc.

• PC serial interface cable.

• Two antennas, 19 dBi or 22 dBi (supplied optionally).

• Two antenna feeder cables, with N-type terminations (supplied

optionally).

• Optional accessories (see page 28).

Additional items required to set up a link are:

• Data cables (BNC terminations for E1 or RJ48C termination for T1).

• Wire pair for antenna alignment measurement.

• Voltmeter for antenna alignment measurement.

• PC for optional configuration and monitoring (minimum of Windows

95).

• Connector sealant for antenna connection.

SYSTEM CONFIGURATION EasyReach User Manual

4 1H90941

Configuration

The equipment is set up on installation as shown in Figure 1.
The use of a PC is not required unless configuration change or monitoring

facilities are required.

Figure 1 EasyReach Equipment Setup (E1 Version)

110/240

VAC

or

20 to 60

VDC

DATA

IN

DATA

OUT

TERMINAL MANAGEMENT ALARM ANTENNA

TERMINAL

POWER

E1 DATA

ANTENNA

5 6

VOLTMETER

+ -

WIRE

PAIR

ANTENNA
CABLE

PC (OPTIONAL)

SERIAL CABLE

EasyReach User Manual SYSTEM CONFIGURATION

1H90941 5

Figure 2 EasyReach Equipment Setup (T1 Version)

110/240

VAC

or

20 to 60

VDC

DATA

TERMINAL MANAGEMENT ALARM ANTENNA

TERMINAL

POWER

T1 DATA

ANTENNA

5 6

VOLTMETER

+ -

WIRE

PAIR

ANTENNA
CABLE

PC (OPTIONAL)

SERIAL CABLE

SYSTEM CONFIGURATION EasyReach User Manual

6 1H90941

Connections

LOCATION TYPE FUNCTION

Front panel

TERMINAL port

Configuration port for PC (is connected in
parallel with the TERMINAL port on the
rear panel – either one can be used as the
configuration port).

Rear panel

POWER connector

AC power version (110 to 240 volts AC), 2
ampere slow blow fuse.

DC power version (20 to 60 volts DC,
isolated), 2 ampere slow blow fuse.

DATA IN

connector

E1 data in from user equipment

DATA OUT

connector

E1 data out to user equipment.

DATA connector

T1 data in from user equipment and out to
user equipment.

TERMINAL port

Configuration port for PC (is connected in
parallel with the TERMINAL port on the
front panel – either one can be used as
the configuration port).

MANAGEMENT port

Network management system port
(reserved for future upgrade).

ALARM port

Provides system alarm status contacts
and a signal strength indication.

ANTENNA

Port for connection to the antenna.

EasyReach User Manual SYSTEM CONFIGURATION

1H90941 7

Front Panel Indicators

The names and functions of the front panel status indicators are as follows:

LEGEND If GREEN If RED
POWER

Power is on -

FAIL

The unit has passed self­test

Power or system fail

DATA

Data acquired Loss of data or line code

violations detected at DATA IN
or Data port

RF SIGNAL

Signal strength is above
threshold

Signal strength is below
threshold

INSTALLATION AND COMMISSIONING EasyReach User Manual

8 1H90941

INSTALLATION AND COMMISSIONING

Conformance to Emission Requirements

Users must ensure that the EasyReach system is deployed, configured and
used in a manner such that it conforms to the emission requirements specified
by the appropriate regulatory body.

Mounting the EasyReach Unit

The EasyReach unit can operate in an environment in which the temperature
range does not exceed the limits specified in the environmental specifications.

The unit comes with mounting feet attached, ready for desktop mounting.
The unit may be either front or rear mounted in a 19-inch rack. The universal

mounting brackets can be screwed onto either side of the unit at the front or
back. The four mounting feet must be removed from the underside of the unit.
Figure 3 shows an example of the brackets located at the front for a front
mounted unit, and Figure 4 shows the arrangement for rear mounting of a unit.

Figure 3 Front Mounting of EasyReach Unit

DATATERMINAL

RF

SIGNAL

FAILPWR

PLESSEYPLESSEY

EasyReach

frtmnt rev1

Figure 4 Rear Mounting of EasyReach Unit

DATATERMINAL

RF

SIGNAL

FAILPWR

PLESSEYPLESSEY

EasyReach

rearmnt rev1

EasyReach User Manual INSTALLATION AND COMMISSIONING

1H90941 9

The unit may be also be wall mounted. Attach the mounting brackets on
diagonally opposite sides of the unit, as shown in Figure 5 , and leave the feet
attached to buffer the unit from the wall surface.

Figure 5 Wall Mounting of EasyReach Unit

DATATERMINAL

RF

SIGNAL

FAILPWR

PLESSEY

PLESSEY

EasyReach

wallmnt rev 01

Mounting brackets located
at diagonally opposite
sides of the unit

INSTALLATION AND COMMISSIONING EasyReach User Manual

10 1H90941

Antenna Mounting

The antenna is best suited to be mounted on a pole of diameter between 50 and
100 mm. The pole must be rigidly mounted to prevent any swaying or vibration
of the antenna.

It is crucial that the two antennas in the link are mounted with the same
polarisation. Different polarisations add approximately 25 dB to the link path
loss, thus seriously reducing the link range.

Ensure that no objects are within 20 degrees of the antenna boresight within the
immediate vicinity of the antenna.

Position the antennas at both ends of the link as accurately as possible to be
pointing to within ±6 degrees of each other in the vertical and horizontal planes
(within the antenna's 3 dB beamwidth). Failure to do this will reduce the received
signal strength and may prevent the link from initialising.

Antenna Cable Ducting

The cable should be ducted so that it maintains a safe bending radius. If the
cable is tied or clamped to fixtures, ensure that the cable sheath is protected
from damage and the cable is not crushed. Ensure also that the cable is fixed so
that it cannot vibrate under wind loading.

Failure to correctly duct the antenna cable will result in the degradation of system
performance.

The cable connection to the antenna should be sealed to prevent moisture from
entering the joint, after the antenna alignment (see page 13) has been
satisfactorily completed.

EasyReach User Manual INSTALLATION AND COMMISSIONING

1H90941 11

Supply Connection

AC Power Version

Connect the unit to mains power using the supplied mains power cable.

DC Power Version

A mating connector is supplied for the connection of DC power.
The DC power option provides isolated positive and negative power terminals

and a chassis ground terminal. It is recommended that the ground rail of the
supply be connected to the chassis ground.

For example, if a -48V supply is used, the -48V rail will be connected to "-" and
the 0V rail will be connected to "+" and also to the chassis ground terminal.

RF Frequency Variants

EasyReach units come in two different frequency variants, and with
complementary transmit/receive frequencies for each variant. The frequencies
of the variants are listed in Table 1.

In setting up a radio link consisting of frequency variant 1 units, the unit at one
end of the link must be a 1a variant and the unit at the other end of the link must
be a 1b variant. Similarly, if frequency variant 2 units are used, one unit must be
a 2a variant and the other one a 2b.

Table 1 RF Frequency Variants

VARIANT TX FREQUENCY RX FREQUENCY

1a 2412 MHz 2452 MHz
1b 2452 MHz 2412 MHz
2a 2426 MHz 2464 MHz
2b 2464 MHz 2426 MHz

INSTALLATION AND COMMISSIONING EasyReach User Manual

12 1H90941

Initial Switch-On

Verify that the radiated emission regulations are not exceeded by either
calculation using Equation 1 or using the EasyReach Element Manager. If
necessary the output power can be adjusted using the EasyReach Element
Manager.

Equation 1 Use to calculate radiated emissions

EIRP = Output Power – Cable Losses + Antenna Gain

Ensure that the equipment is set up according to Figure 1 (see page 4).
It is not necessary to interface a PC to the EasyReach unit unless the user

requires either to monitor the system operation or to re-configure the control and
monitoring parameters – see “System Control and Monitoring” below, and
“Control and Configuration Using EasyReach Element Manager” on page 22.

Ensure that the antennas at both sites are pointing to within ±6 degrees of the
other site in both the vertical and horizontal planes.

Switch on the power to the equipment at both ends of the link.
The four front-panel status indicator LEDs should all be green (although they

may not be if the antenna alignment is not yet accurate enough).
Perform the antenna alignment procedure detailed on page 13.

EasyReach User Manual INSTALLATION AND COMMISSIONING

1H90941 13

Antenna Alignment

WARNING

RF RADIATION

RF ENERGY AT MICROWAVE FREQUENCIES IS PRESENT WITH THIS
EQUIPMENT. PERSONNEL SHOULD NOT BE EXPOSED TO HIGH RF
ENERGIES, AND SHOULD NOT TO BE IN FRONT OF THE ANTENNA WHEN
THE EQUIPMENT IS SWITCHED ON.

The following procedure allows antenna alignment to be performed by one
person.

To correctly align the antenna(s), perform the following steps:

• Ensure both sites are set up according to Figure 1 (see page 4).

• Switch both units on and set up according to the initialisation procedure

detailed on page 11.

• Ensure that the antennas at both sites are pointing to within ±6 degrees of
the other site in both the vertical and horizontal planes (within the 3 dB
antenna beamwidth).

• Run a pair of wires from the unit to the antenna. Connect the wires to pins
5 and 6 of the alarm port mating connector supplied (see Table 7) and plug
the connector into the ALARM port at the rear of the unit. Connect a
voltmeter to these wires at the antenna end.

• The antenna can now be accurately aligned by slowly panning it to the
point where the peak voltage value is obtained on the voltmeter, then
slowly tilting it to obtain the highest value possible. Once the maximum
signal level is obtained, secure the antenna, waterproof the connections,
and disconnect the voltmeter and wire pair.

• Perform the antenna alignment at the other site.

• The DATA and RF SIGNAL indicator LEDs should both be green at the

units at both sites.

INSTALLATION AND COMMISSIONING EasyReach User Manual

14 1H90941

System Configuration

System operational parameters can be set using a PC connected to either one of
the TERMINAL ports. These parameters are preset in the supplied units to
factory defaults as detailed in Table 2 below.

Table 2 Default Settings of Operational Parameters

PARAMETER DEFAULT SETTING

COM port selection COM 1
Loopback mode for system checking Disabled
Transmitter power at antenna port 24 dBm
Setting of the digital signal processor

(DSP) spreading code

E1 - 11100010010 (Barker code)
T1 - 1111100110101

T1 Line Build Out 0 to 110 Feet

If the application requires any variation to any of these parameters, refer to
“Control and Configuration Using EasyReach Element Manager” on page 22 for
detail on how to do this, or to examine what the current parameter settings are.

EasyReach User Manual OPERATION

1H90941 15

OPERATION

Once the Plessey EasyReach link is properly installed and the antennas are
aligned, it will initialise and operate on power-up without any special configuration
requirements.

It is not necessary to interface a PC to the EasyReach unit unless the user
requires either to monitor the system operation or to re-configure the control and
monitoring parameters – see “System Control and Monitoring” below, and
“Control and Configuration Using EasyReach Element Manager” on page 22.

Normal Startup Procedure

Switch on the power to the equipment at both ends of the link.
The four front-panel status indicator LEDs should all be green; if they are not,

refer to the troubleshooting hints on beginning on page 16.

System Control and Monitoring

The EasyReach Element Manager software allows the user to control and
configure various operational and monitoring parameters.

The facilities and usage of the Element Manager are explained on page 22.

TROUBLESHOOTING EasyReach User Manual

16 1H90941

TROUBLESHOOTING

If the installation and configuration procedures described in this manual have
been followed, the Plessey EasyReach should work correctly when it is first
turned on. If, however, the Plessey EasyReach does not work as expected,
there are three general methods that can be used to determine equipment status
and operating conditions:

• If the front-panel status indicators are not showing normal (all green)
status, refer to the procedures under “Status Indicators” below. The error
table on page 18 gives a summary of how various error conditions can
affect the status indicators.

• If the performance is such that the antenna systems are suspect, the two
EasyReach terminal units of a link can be brought together and bench
tested with the antennas bypassed. The procedure for this is detailed in
“Bench Testing” on page 19.

• If system performance is thought to be below standard, the EasyReach
Element Manager can be used not only to monitor ongoing system
performance parameters but also to perform system loopback and other
tests. These procedures are detailed in “Control and Configuration Using
EasyReach Element Manager” on page 22.

In the event of a faulty EasyReach, refer to qualified service personnel or return
the EasyReach for service.

EasyReach User Manual TROUBLESHOOTING

1H90941 17

Status Indicators

POWER LED Not Green

If the POWER LED is not green when the SUPPLY switch is on, the problem
may be one of the following:

• The power supply to the unit has failed or there is a faulty connection.

Check the connections. Check the unit power supply. For DC versions of
EasyReach, it should be between 20 and 60 volts DC. Ensure that the
polarisation is correct. For AC versions of EasyReach, it should be
between 110 and 250 volts AC.

• The power fuse on the EasyReach board has blown, caused by:

Incorrect fuse rating. Check the rating and replace.

Fault in the EasyReach power supply.

FAIL LED is Red

This indicates a power or system fail:

• Internal fault with the unit. Return for repair.

DATA LED is Red

The DATA LED is red when:

• The EasyReach unit cannot detect data on the DATA port.

• The EasyReach unit detects bipolar code violations on the DATA port.

Check the DATA connection and verify the integrity of the incoming E1 or T1
data.

RF SIGNAL LED is Red

The RF SIGNAL is red when the EasyReach unit is not receiving an RF signal of
sufficient strength from the other end of the link to acquire reliable data.

Firstly, check that the unit at the other end of the link is switched on.
If the RF SIGNAL indicator at the other end of the link is also red or intermittently

red, then the problem may be one of the following:

• Incorrect use of EasyReach frequency variants. Refer to page 11 for
details of the available frequency options.

• One of the EasyReach units has been configured incorrectly.
Restart both units, and ensure that both radio units have the same

TROUBLESHOOTING EasyReach User Manual

18 1H90941

configuration. Check that the near end transmit and the far end
receive spreading codes are the same.

• The antennas may not be aligned correctly; perform the alignment
procedure in "Antenna Alignment" on page 13.

• The RF cable at either end is damaged or its connections are not
secure.

• The link is operating over too great a distance; consult the technical
specifications attached to this manual.

• There are obstacles intruding into the link signal path.

The link may be set up to operate without antennas to ensure integrity of both
units; see the procedure in “Bench Testing” on page 19. If both RF SIGNAL
indicators are subsequently green, then the problem is most likely one of those
mentioned above.

If the RF SIGNAL indicator at the other end of the link is green, then the problem
may be that one of the EasyReach units has been configured incorrectly. Check
that configurations are the same at both ends of the link, and restart both units:

Error Table

A summary of the various error conditions that may affect the condition of the
LED status indicators is shown in Table 3 below.

Table 3 Error Condition/Status Indication Matrix

LED Indicator Status

CONDITION

POWER RF

SIGNAL

FAIL DATA

ALARM

Port

Relay

Normal

GREEN

GREEN GREEN GREEN Normal

Fuse blown OFF OFF OFF OFF ALARM
No +5 volts RED OFF OFF OFF ALARM
E1 / T1 internal clock failure GREEN GREEN RED GREEN ALARM
Converter clock failure GREEN GREEN RED GREEN ALARM
Internal voltage out of limit GREEN GREEN RED GREEN ALARM
Transmit VCO unlocked GREEN GREEN RED GREEN ALARM
Receive VCO unlocked GREEN GREEN RED GREEN ALARM
Transmit power out of limit GREEN GREEN RED GREEN ALARM
E1 / T1 line input signal loss GREEN GREEN GREEN RED ALARM
E1 / T1 code violation GREEN GREEN GREEN RED ALARM
Receive power outside limit GREEN RED GREEN GREEN ALARM
Mismatch in spreading codes GREEN RED GREEN GREEN ALARM
External interference GREEN RED GREEN GREEN ALARM

EasyReach User Manual TROUBLESHOOTING

1H90941 19

Bench Testing

To aid system commissioning or to check the integrity of the equipment, the
Plessey EasyReach link may be bench tested by bypassing the antennas, as
shown in Figure 6.

Units may only be connected with an attenuator exceeding 50 dB in the path
between antenna ports.

CAUTION

Do not connect the antenna ports of two units directly together. Damage of
both units will result.

Figure 6 Bench Testing Arrangement (E1 Version)

110/240

VAC

or

20 to 60

VDC

DATAINDATA

OUT

TERMINAL MANAGEMENT ALARM ANTENNA

TERMINAL

POWER

110/240

VAC

or

20 to 60

VDC

DATAINDATA

OUT

TERMINAL MANAGEMENT ALARM ANTENNA

TERMINAL

POWER

E1 DATA

RF ATTENUATOR

(50 dB MINIMUM)

ANTENNA FEEDER CABLE

Figure 7 Bench Testing Arrangement (T1 Version)

110/240

VAC

or

20 to 60

VDC

T1 DATA TERMINAL MANAGEMEN ALARM ANTENNA

TERMINAL

POWER

110/240

VAC

or

20 to 60

VDC

T1 DATA TERMINAL MANAGEMEN ALARM ANTENNA

TERMINAL

POWER T1 DATA

RF AATTENUATOR
(50 dB MINIMUM)

ANTENNA FEEDER

TROUBLESHOOTING EasyReach User Manual

20 1H90941

The system may be tested using a single E1 / T1 data stream by looping back
the data from the data output to the data input of the E1 / T1 port on one of the
units as shown above.

The following procedure provides a method of testing the system at one location
using an E1/ T1 data communications anaylser:

• Set up the equipment according to Figure 6 by looping back the data at the
data port on one of the units, and connecting an E1 / T1 data
communications analyser to the E1 / T1 port of the other unit.

• Switch on the power to the equipment at both ends of the link.

• The four front panel LEDs should be green.

• The E1 / T1 data communications analyser should indicate no errors.

Procedure using internal loopbacks to isolate the fault.

Figure 8 Location of internal loopbacks.

110/240

VAC

or

20 to 60

VDC

T1 DATA TERMINAL MANAGEMEN ALARM ANTENNA

TERMINAL

POWER

110/240

VAC

or

20 to 60

VDC

T1 DATA TERMINAL MANAGEMEN ALARM ANTENNA

TERMINAL

POWER DATA

RF AATTENUATOR

(50 dB MINIMUM)

ANTENNA FEEDER

Internal Data Path Internal Data Path

1 2 3

Follow the testing flow shown in Table 1 using the EasyReach Element Manager
software to place the radio into loopback at the locations shown in Figure 8.

EasyReach User Manual TROUBLESHOOTING

1H90941 21

Table 4 Testing procedure using internal loopbacks.

Loopback Description If good If bad

1 Local E1 / T1 Go to 2 Check near end

Connection.

2 Local Modem Go to 3 Check spreading

codes.

3 Far End E1 / T1 Check E1 / T1 far end

connection.

Check RF connection.

INTERFACING EasyReach User Manual

22 1H90941

INTERFACING THE EASYREACH

The EasyReach may be monitored and configured using a PC with the supplied
software and interface cable. The unit provides two TERMINAL port connections
for this purpose:

• 9-way D-type at the front of the unit.

• RJ45 type at the rear of the unit.

CAUTION

The two TERMINAL ports are connected internally. Do not connect external
devices to both ports at the same time.

Control and Configuration Using EasyReach Element Manager

The unit may be monitored and configured using the EasyReach Element
Manager software running under Windows 95 (minimum) on a PC.

The Element Manager allows access to the following parameters and status
information:

• COM port selection.

• Current alarm summary.

• Loopback mode for system checking.

• Monitoring of internal power supplies.

• Monitoring of internal clocking.

• Setting of the digital signal processor (DSP).spreading code.

• Setting of transmit output power.

The Element Manager contains a help menu that provides information on all of
its functions.

To set up the PC to run the Element Manager, insert the EasyReach diskette
into the a: drive, select Run from the Windows 95 / 98 start menu and type:

Setup.exe

Follow the installation instructions shown on the screen. The appearance of the
Element Manager after the installation is complete is shown in Figure 9.

EasyReach User Manual INTERFACING

1H90941 23

Figure 9 EasyReach Element Manager Startup Window

INTERFACING EasyReach User Manual

24 1H90941

Interface Cable Configurations

The 9-way D-type interface cable supplied allows access to the front panel
TERMINAL port, and its pinout is as shown below; pinouts of both ends of the
cable are identical.

Table 5 Interface Cable Pinout

Pin Connection

1 Not connected
2 Transmit
3 Receive
4 Not connected
5 GND
6 Not connected
7 CTS
8 RTS
9 Not connected

If the RJ45 TERMINAL port on the rear of the EasyReach unit is to be connected
to a PC 9-way D-type port, the interface cable pinout is required to be as below.

Table 6 Rear Panel TERMINAL Port Pinout

Pin

Connection at

EasyReach End

(RJ45)

Connection at

PC End

(9-way D-type)

1 Not connected Not connected
2 RTS Transmit
3 GND Receive
4 Transmit Not connected
5 Receive GND
6 GND Not connected
7 CTS CTS
8 Not connected RTS
9 Not connected

EasyReach User Manual ALARM PORT FUNCTIONS

1H90941 25

ALARM PORT FUNCTIONS

The EasyReach provides information on received signal strength and system
status from the ALARM port connector at the rear of the unit.

The ALARM port provides two functions:

• Received signal strength:

The voltage between pins 5 and 6 give a qualitative indication of the
received signal strength. This function is used when aligning the antennas
in the link.

• Alarm status:

This function may be used for external alarm monitoring.

The ALARM port allows access to two relays in the unit, one with contacts
normally open, the other with contacts normally closed. When the unit is
powered and operating correctly, the relays are held in the "ON" state. When an
"alarm" occurs or if power to the unit fails, the relays switch to the "OFF" state.
An "alarm" is defined in Table 3 (see page 18) and may be configured using the
user interface.

A mating connector for this port is supplied with the equipment for user
deployment as required. The port pinout is shown in Table 7 below, and the pin
configuration is as shown in Figure 10.

Table 7 ALARM Port Pinout

Pin Connection

1 Relay normally-open contact (non-error state)
2 Relay common
3 Relay normally-closed contact (non-error state)
4 Ground
5 Received signal strength +
6 Received signal strength -

Figure 10 ALARM Port Pin Configuration (Rear View)

6 5 4 3

2

1

ALARM PORT FUNCTIONS EasyReach User Manual

26 1H90941

Table 8 DC Power Connector Pinout

Pin Connection

1 Positive (+)
2 Negative (-)
3 Ground
4 Ground

Figure 11 DC Power Connector Pin Configuration (Rear View)

4 3

2

1

Table 9 T1 Data Connector RJ48C Pinout

Pin Connection

1 Receive (ring)
2 Receive (tip)
3 Not Used
4 Transmit (ring)
5 Transmit (tip)
6 Not Used
7 Not Used
8 Not Used

Figure 12 T1 Data Connector RJ48C (Rear View)

8 1

EasyReach User Manual CO-LOCATION OF LINKS

1H90941 27

CO-LOCATION OF EASYREACH LINKS

It is possible to operate up to three EasyReach links with antennas mounted on
the same mast. The antennas must be mounted so they do not interfere with
each other. The following measures minimise interference:

• Frequency Diversity.

The Plessey EasyReach is factory fitted to operate on one of two channels
within the ISM band. Where more than one link is required, one link should
be selected to use a different band from the other link(s).

• Space Diversity.

Interference may be minimised by locating antennas from different links as
far as possible from each other. In the case where the antennas are
mounted on the same pole or tower, they should be separated as much as
possible, particularly if they are not pointing in opposite directions.

• Polarisation Diversity:

The antennas may be mounted so the antennas from one link are mounted
with a different polarisation to the antennas from another link. This is
especially important in the case where three links are used, since two links
must share the same frequency band.

ACCESSORIES EasyReach User Manual

28 1H90941

ACCESSORIES

The accessories available for the Plessey EasyReach are:

Part Number Description
1B90949-x Feed cable (Standard loss, High flexibility)

Where x is a 3 digit number indicating length in
10th of a metre. For example the order code for a
10 metre length would be 1B90949-100.

2B90949-x Feed cable (Low loss, Standard flexibility)

Where x is a 3 digit number indicating length in
10th of a metre. For example the order code for a

10 metre length would be 1B90949-100.
3B90949 Antenna, 19dBi
4B90949 Antenna, 22dBi
5B90949 Surge protector
6B90949 N Type adaptor, right angle, M/f
7B90949 N Type adaptor, BH flange, F/F
8B90949 N type adaptor, BH panel, F/F
9B90949 75 / 120 Ohm Balun BNC / Krone
10R90949 Antenna, 21dBi
11R90949 Antenna, 24dBi

Contact Plessey for details of these items, if required.

EasyReach User Manual TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

1H90941 29

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

The technical operational specifications for the EasyReach system are detailed
following.

System (E1 Version)

RF range 2400 … 2483.5 MHz
Link distance, with 22dBi antenna

and 20 dB fade margin > 30 km
Type of operation Frequency division duplexing
Antenna port N-type female, 50 ohms
PN code 11 bits
Processing gain Better than 10 dB
Data rate 2.048 Mbits/s
Data interface ITU-T G.703, 75 ohms, BNC
Jitter specification ITU-T G.823
Residual BER Better than 1E-10
Alarm indicators Power, system and data fail
External alarm Relay contact, normally-open

System (T1 Version)

RF range 2400 … 2483.5 MHz
Link distance, with 22dBi antenna

and 20 dB fade margin > 30 km
Type of operation Frequency division duplexing
Antenna port N-type female, 50 ohms
PN code 13 bits
Processing gain Better than 10 dB
Data rate 1.544 Mbits/s
Data interface RJ48C
Jitter specification ITU-T G.823
Residual BER Better than 1E-10
Alarm indicators Power, system and data fail
External alarm Relay contact, normally-open

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS EasyReach User Manual

30 1H90941

Transmitter

Nominal Power at antenna
port +24 dBm, 10 dB adjustable

Frequency stability 15 PPM maximum
Modulation QPSK, direct sequence

Receiver

Reference level -63 dBm/50 ohms
Overload point -25 dBm
Sensitivity (typical) at

antenna port

-88 dBm at BER = 10E-6

Power Supply

DC source -20 to –60 volts
Optional AC input 110 to 240 volts 50 to 60 Hertz (Auto ranging)

Mechanical

Chassis 19-inch rack-mountable

1 RU height, 440 mm deep
Can be freestanding and stackable

Environmental

Operating temperature 5OC to 40OC

(41OF to 104OF)

Compliance

Safety AS 3260
EMC AS3548

FCC, ETSI

EasyReach User Manual TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE NOTES

1H90941 31

TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE NOTES

Surge Protection for Radio Equipment

General

Devices exist to assist in the protection of radio equipment from surges caused
by lightning strikes and nuclear blasts. The level of protection based on the fact
that damage thresholds for microwave diodes are in the order of 1.E-8 joules.
This note does not address surges in power lines.

Surge Characteristics

Surges in equipment conductors are induced by broad band, high-energy
electromagnetic pulses. These pulses are caused by lightning (LEMP) and/or
nuclear blasts (NEMP). Most of the energy in lightning pulses is confined within
DC to 1 MHz with rise time in the nanoseconds range. Electric field associated
with LEMP are in order of 500 kV/m while those from NEMP are about one order
of magnitude less. In the normal configurations with an antenna mounted on a
mast and connected to the transmitter/receiver via coaxial cable/waveguide,
induced voltages (currents) are in common mode at the entrance point (around
the top of the mast). Potential difference will develop between different
conducting paths as the surge is transmitted towards ground equipment due to
different (transient) propagation characteristic of the cable/waveguide. For
coaxial cables for example, higher inductance of the inner conductor delays and
flattens (longer rise time) the pulse relative to the one received from the shield.
LNAs located outside right at the antenna are often not affected by large
common mode surges. Apart from high potential difference, the resultant high
surge currents can also excessively heat, to melting, the various conducting
paths on their way escaping to ground.

Methods of Surge Protection

The causes for surges thus can not be controlled or eliminated. The effects of
surges, however, are minimised by good (low inductance) earth paths where
surge currents are passed harmlessly down to good earth. The paths may be
one or all combinations of the following:

1. the earth paths that are connected to signal line but are open circuit
at the operating frequency; or,

2. the improved existing or dedicated conduction earth path; or,

3. the paths that are short-circuited to good ground at the surge voltage.

Each of these three methods is briefly explained below.

TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE NOTES EasyReach User Manual

32 1H90941

Grounded Antennas

Often the antennas are grounded. A most simple example is the folded
dipole. Only at the intended frequencies are the paths separated by the
characteristic impedance. Away from the radiating elements, the path of
least resistance to good earth, will be the one taken lightning surge current.
Often this path is discovered after the event, where melted-down metal or
burned material is found after a thunderstorm. Deliberate grounding
outside the operating frequency band can also be designed into the circuit.
The simplest method of doing this is the shorted quarter-wave stubs. The
technique is economically suitable when the operating frequency band is
well separated from the effective spectrum of the surge pulses. Grounded
antennas provide good surge protection and are often not sufficient by
itself.

Dedicated Conduction Paths

Away from the radiating elements, surge currents are diverted away from
circuit units to the antenna frame by copper earth straps placed at strategic
locations. This is a low-cost solution and together with grounded antenna
design (as described above) is normally sufficient to protect the antenna
system from lightning. Lightning rods providing protection cones can also
be used to induce surges to take a particular path down to ground via the
antenna frame/tower. The use of heavy-gauge ground wire running up the
mast was found not to be cost effective, as the wire needs to be large and
fitted at least 0.5 m away from the mast, and often the difference in
conductivity between copper and galvanised steel is lost in the difference in
inductances due to smaller surface area of the ground wire. Attention also
has to be provided for the galvanic voltage.

Dedicated Surge Protection Cells

Surge protection cells can be inserted in transmission path between
antenna and ground equipment. Cells are generally of two types. One
type of cell is designed dedicated to a particular frequency band using ‘1/4­wave’ stub techniques of various sophistication to provide sharpness in the
passband. The other type makes use of the voltage discrimination of some
non-linear diodes or gas tubes. At voltage higher than a predetermined
level, the device shorts the central conductor to its shield, preferably at a
point where the shield itself is well grounded.

EasyReach User Manual TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE NOTES

1H90941 33

Standard Earthing Practices

Optimum system performance can ONLY be achieved if correct earthing
practices have been adopted. Although it may seem obvious, this is an area that
is often neglected or compromised. It is essential that the incoming supply, the
19-inch rack, the antenna feeder, the mast, and all interconnecting bulkheads be
ALL solidly grounded. If these points are neglected, the user may experience
sub-standard performance or interference problems.

The recommended earthing points are depicted in Figure 13.

Figure 13 Standard Earthing Practices at a Communication Site

• Grounding Kit at top end of feeder.
‚ Grounding Kit at point where feeder leaves antenna.
ƒ Grounding Kit at point where feeder enters building.
„ Earth Bonds – 30 × 5 mm (minimum) copper or galvanised steel strip.
… Down Conductor – 20 × 3 mm copper strip, or 35 mm

2

stranded conductor.

† Earth Electrode – 12 mm diameter hard drawn copper, or 10 mm diameter copper clad steel rod.
‡ Internal Station Earth – 20 × 1.5 mm copper strip, or 35 mm

2

stranded conductor.