Schneider Electric Systems Canada Installation guide
Specifications and Main Features
Frequently Asked Questions
User Manual
User Manual
E Series Data Radio
ER450 Remote Data Radio
EB450 Base Station
EH450 Hot Stand-by Base Station
www.trio.com.au
Issue 4: May 2003
E Series Data Radio – User Manual
!
Part A Preface
Warranty
All equipment supplied by Trio DataCom Pty . Ltd. is warranted against
faulty workmanship and parts for a period of twelve (12) months from
the date of delivery to the customer. During the warranty period Trio
DataCom Pty. Ltd. shall, at its option, repair or replace faulty parts or
equipment provided the fault has not been caused by misuse,
accident, deliberate damage, abnormal atmosphere, liquid immersion
or lightning discharge; or where attempts have been made by
unauthorised persons to repair or modify the equipment.
The warranty does not cover modifications to software. All equipment
for repair under warranty must be returned freight paid to Trio DataCom
Pty. Ltd. or to such other place as T rio DataCom Pty . Ltd. shall
nominate. Following repair or replacement the equipment shall be
returned to the customer freight forward. If it is not possible due to the
nature of the equipment for it to be returned to Trio DataCom Pty . Ltd.,
then such expenses as may be incurred by Trio DataCom Pty . Ltd. in
servicing the equipment in situ shall be chargeable to the customer.
When equipment for repair does not qualify for repair or replacement
under warranty, repairs shall be performed at the prevailing costs for
parts and labour. Under no circumstances shall Trio DataCom Pty .
Ltd.’s liability extend beyond the above nor shall Trio DataCom Pty .
Ltd., its principals, servants or agents be liable for the consequential
damages caused by the failure or malfunction of any equipment.
Part A - Preface
Warning :- RF Exposure
The radio equipment described in this user manual emits low level
radio frequency energy. The concentrated energy may pose a health
hazard depending on the type of antenna used. In the case of a nondirectional antenna do not allow people to come within 0.5 metres of
the antenna when the transmitter is operating. In the case of a
directional antenna do not allow people to come within 6 metres of the
antenna when the transmitter is operating.
Related Products
ER450 Remote Data Radio
EB450 Base/Repeater Station
EH450 Hot Stand-by Base Station
Other Related Documentation
and Products
Quick Start Guide
TVIEW+ Management Suite
Digital Orderwire Voice Module (EDOVM)
Stream Router/Multiplexer (95MSR)
This manual covers the operation of the E Series of Digital Data
Radios. Specifications described are typical only and are subject to
normal manufacturing and service tolerances.
Trio DataCom Pty Ltd reserves the right to modify the equipment, its
specification or this manual without prior notice, in the interest of
improving performance, reliability or servicing. At the time of
publication all data is correct for the operation of the equipment at
the voltage and/or temperature referred to. Performance data
indicates typical values related to the particular product.
This manual is copyright by Trio DataCom Pty Ltd. All rights
reserved. No part of the documentation or the information supplied
may be divulged to any third party without the express written
permission of Trio DataCom Pty Ltd.
Same are proprietary to Trio DataCom Pty Ltd and are supplied for
the purposes referred to in the accompanying documentation and
must not be used for any other purpose. All such information
remains the property of Trio DataCom Pty Ltd and may not be
reproduced, copied, stored on or transferred to any other media or
used or distributed in any way save for the express purposes for
which it is supplied.
Products offered may contain software which is proprietary to Trio
DataCom Pty Ltd. However, the offer of supply of these products
and services does not include or infer any transfer of ownership of
such proprietary information and as such reproduction or reuse
without the express permission in writing from Trio DataCom Pty
Ltd is forbidden. Permission may be applied for by contacting Trio
DataCom Pty Ltd in writing.
Warranty2
Important Notice2
Related Products2
Other Related Documentation and Products2
Revision History2
Part B E Ser ies Over v iew4
Definition of E Series Data Radio4
E Series Product Range4
E Series – Features and Benefits4
Model Number Codes6
Standard Accessories7
Part C Applications8
Generic Connectivity8
Application Detail8
Systems Architecture9
Part D System Planning and Design 11
Understanding RF Path Requirements11
Examples of Predictive Path Modelling1 2
Selecting Antennas1 4
Data Connectivity1 5
Power Supply and Environmental Considerations18
Physical Dimensions of the Remote Data Radio1 9
Physical Dimensions of the Base Station2 0
Physical Dimensions of the Hot Standby Base Station2 1
SECTION 2
Part I TVIEW+ Management Suite Programmer40
Introduction40
Installation4 0
TVIEW+ Front Panel41
Programmer41
Part J TVIEW+ Management Suite Remote Diagnostics & Network
Controller53
The E Series is a range of wireless modems designed for the
transmission of data communications for SCADA, telemetry, and
any other information and control applications that utilise ASCII
messaging techniques. The E Series uses advanced “digital”
modulation and signal processing techniques to achieve
exceptionally high data throughput efficiency using traditional
licensed narrow band radio channels.
The products are available in many frequency band and regulatory
formats to suit spectrum bandplans in various continental regions.
The range is designed for both fixed point to point (PTP), and
multiple address (MAS) or point to multipoint (PMP) systems.
E Series Product Range
The E Series range consists of the basic half duplex “Remote”
radio modem, an extended feature full duplex Remote radio
modem, and ruggedised Base Station variants, including an
optional Hot Standby controller to control two base station units in
a redundant configuration.
Frequency band variants are indicated by the band prefix and
model numbering. (See Model Number Codes)
E Series Features and Benefits
Common Features and Benefits of the E
Series Data Radio
•Up to 19200bps over-air data rates using programmable
DSP based advanced modulation schemes
•Designed to various International regulatory requirements
including FCC, ETSI and ACA
•Superior receiver sensitivity
•Fast data turnaround time <10mS
•Flash upgrade-able firmware – insurance against obsolescence
•Multi-function bi-colour Tx/Rx data LEDS showing Port activity
(breakout box style), as well as LEDs indicating Tx, Rx, RF
Signal, Data Synchronisation 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
76800bps on Port A and 38400bps on Port B)
ER450 Remote Radio
EB450 Base / Repeater Station
•Independent system port for interruption free programming and
diagnostics (in addition to two (2) user ports)
•9600bps in 12.5 kHz radio channels with ETSI specifications
•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 same
off-air data to two separate ports.
•Multi-function radio capable of dropping off one stream to a port
and forward on or repeat (store and forward) the same or other
data.
•Stand-alone internal store and forward operation – buffered store
and forward operation even in the ER remote units
•Unique integrated C/DSMA collision avoidance technology
permits simultaneous polling and spontaneous reporting
operation in the same system
•Digital receiver frequency tracking for long term data reliability
Page 4
•Network wide non intrusive diagnostics which runs
simultaneously with the application
•Network wide diagnostics interrogation which can be
performed from anywhere in the 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 – increased
user interface speeds
•Full CRC error checked data – no erroneous data due to
squelch tails or headers
•Radio utilises world standard HDLC as its transportation
protocol
•Various flow control and PTT control mechanisms
•Configurable backward compatibility with existing D Series
modulation scheme for use within existing networks
•Digital plug in order wire option for commissioning and
occasional voice communications without the need to inhibit
users application data
Features and Benefits of ER450 Remote
Data Radio
•Optional full duplex capable remote – separate Tx and Rx ports
for connection to an external duplexer
•New compact and rugged die cast case with inbuilt heatsink
•Low power consumption with various sleep modes
•Rugged N type antenna connectors
•In-line power supply fuses
•Data Port “breakout box” style flow LEDs for easier
troubleshooting
Features and Benefits of EB450 Standard
Base / Repeater Station
•Competitively priced high performance base
•Incorporates a rugged 5W power amplifier module
•External input for higher stability 10MHz reference – GPS
derived
Features and Benefits of EH450 Hot Standby
Base / Repeater Station
•Individual and identical base stations with separate control logic
changeover panel
•ALL modules are hot swapable without any user downtime
•Flexible antenna options – single, separate Tx & Rx, two Tx
and two Rx
•Increased sensitivity with receiver pre-amplifier
•Both on-line and off-line units monitored regardless of active
status
•External input for higher stability 10MHz reference – GPS
derived
0 = No Options
D = Diagnostics - [DIAGS/D, DIAGS/DH, DIAGS/E or DIAGS/EH] (D & E Series Only)
H = Extended Temp Option [HITEMP]
N = Remote Fitted into NEMA Enclosure [NEMA 4/R]
F = Full Duplex Operation [ERFD450] (ER450 only)
X = Full Duplex Operation [ERFD450 & DIAGS/E] (ER450 only)
RF Channel Data Rate & Bandwidth (Internal Modem
D SeriesE Series
A01 = ACA 4800bps in 12.5kHzA01
A02 = ACA 9600bps in 25kHzA02
F01 = FCC 9600bps in 12.5kHzF01
Frequency (200 & 400 MHz range)
39 = 208 to 240MHz (Tx & Rx)07 = (Tx) 847 to 857MHz (Rx) 923 to 933MHz (D Series only, 1W Full Duplex)
50 = 403 to 417MHz (Tx & Rx)10 = (Tx) 848 to 858MHz (Rx) 920 to 934MHz
58 = (Tx) 406 to 421MHz (Rx) 415 to 430MHz06 = (Tx) 923 to 933MHz (Rx) 847 to 857MHz (D Series only, 1W Full Duplex)
59 = (Tx) 415 to 430MHz (Rx) 406 to 421MHz11 = (Tx) 920 to 934MHz (Rx) 848 to 858MHz
56 = 418 to 435MHz (Tx & Rx)12 = 855 to 860MHz (Tx & Rx)
57 = 428 to 443MHz (Tx & Rx)14 = (Tx) 925 to 943MHz (Rx) 906 to 924MHz
55 = 436 to 450MHz (Tx & Rx)15 = (Tx) 904 to 922MHz (Rx) 925 to 943MHz
51 = 450 to 465MHz (Tx & Rx)16 = 924 to 944MHz (Tx & Rx)
52 = 465 to 480MHz (Tx & Rx)
53 = 480 to 494MHz (Tx & Rx)Note: Other frequency bands available upon request.
54 = 505 to 518MHz (Tx & Rx)
27 = (Tx) 511 to 515MHz (Rx) 501 to 505MHz
48 = 395 to 406MHz (Tx & Rx)
Generic Frequency Band
200 = 208 to 245MHz (D & S Series only)NOTES:
450 = 400 to 518MHz (E & S Series only)* Additional charges apply. Must be ordered seperately. Please refer to price list.
900 = 800 to 960MHz (D & S Series only)
Unit Type
R = Remote Station
B = Base / Repeater StationStandards:ACA - Australian Communications Authority
S = Standard Base / Repeater Station (D Series Only)FCC - Federal Communications Commission
H = Hot Standby Base / Repeater (D & E Series Only)ETSI - European Telcommunication Standards Institute
Model Type
D = D Series Family
= E Series Family
E
= S Series Famil
S
Example:
E R 450- 51 A02- D0
The above example specifies: E Series, Remote Radio, generic 450MHz band, with a specific frequency of 450MHz to 465MHz,
a 96/19.2kbps modem, with a bandwidth of 25kHz, diagnostics and standard N type connector.
F02 = FCC 19k2bps in 25kHz242 = 2400bps in 25kHz [24SR]*
E01 = ETSI 9600bps in 12.5kHz482 = 4800bps in 25kHz [48SR]*
E02 = ETSI 19k2bps in 25kHz
Frequency (900 MHz range) (D & S Series Only)
[DUPLX450BR]
(<9MHz split)[DUPLX450BR/5]
[DUPLX450BP]
[DUPLX900BR]
[DUPLX900BP]
(76MHz split)[DUPLX852/930]
/ 9600bps in 12.5Hz
= ACA 4800
= ACA 9600
= FCC 9600
#
Items in [ ] parenthesis refer to actual Trio part numbers
/ 19k2bps in 25kHz
/ 9600bps in 12.5kHz
Provides compatibility with D Series radio
N = N Connector (D Series only)
S = SMA Connector (SR450 only)
S Series
001 = 12.5kHz (No Modem Fitted)
002 = 25kHz (No Modem Fitted)
241 = 2400bps in 12.5kHz [24SR]*
The E Series has been designed for SCADA and telemetry
applications, and any other applications that use an ASCII
communications protocol, and which connect physically using the
RS232 interface standard (although converters can be used to
adapt other interfaces such as RS422/485, RS530/V35, G703 etc).
Any protocol that can be displayed using a PC based terminal
program operating via a serial comm port is suitable for
transmission by the E Series radio modems.
An ASCII protocol is any that consists of message strings formed
from ASCII characters, that being defined as a 10 or 11 bit block
including start and stop bits, 7 or 8 data bits and optional parity
bit(s). Port set-up dialog that includes the expressions “N,8,1”, or
E,7,2” or similar indicate an ASCII protocol.
Most of the dominant telemetry industry suppliers utilise proprietary
ASCII protocols, and also common “open standard” industry
protocols such as DNP3, MODBUS, TCP/IP, and PPP. These are
all ASCII. based protocols.
Industries and Applications
The E Series products are widely used in point-to-point and pointto-multipoint (multiple access) applications for remote
interconnection of PLC’s, RTU’s, dataloggers, and other data
monitoring and control devices including specialist utility devices
(such as powerline ACR’s). In addition, other applications such as
area wide security and alarm systems, public information systems
(traffic flow and public signage systems) and environmental
monitoring systems.
Application Detail
SCADA Systems
This is where one or more centralised control sites are used to
monitor and control remote field devices over wide areas.
Examples include regional utilities monitoring and controlling
networks over entire shires or a greater city metropolis’. Industry
sectors include energy utilities (gas and electricity distribution),
water and sewerage utilities, and catchment and environment
groups (rivers, dams, and catchment management authorities).
Telemetry Systems
Dedicated telemetry control systems interconnecting sequential
devices where cabling is not practical or distances are
considerable.
Examples include ore conveyor or slurry pipeline systems, simple
water systems (pump and reservoir interlinking), broadcast industry
(linking studio to transmitter) etc.
Information Systems
Public Information systems such as freeway vehicle flow and travel
time monitoring, and feedback signage, parking signage systems,
meteorological stations etc.
This simple system architecture provides a virtual connection
between the two points, similar to a cable. Dependant of the
hardware chosen, it is possible to provide a full duplex connection
(i.e. data transfer in both directions simultaneously) if required.
Part C Applications
Point-to-Multipoint Systems
In a multiple access radio system, messages can be broadcast
from one (master) site to all others, using a half duplex radio
system, or from any site to all others, using a simplex radio
channel.
Half duplex systems often utilise a full duplex master, to make the
system simpler, and to operate faster.
In either case, it will be necessary for the application to support an
addressing system, since the master needs to be able to select
which remote device it wishes to communicate to. Normally, the
radio system is allowed to operate “transparently”, allowing the
application’s protocol to provide the addressing, and thus control
the traffic. Where the application layer does not provide the
addressing, the E Series can provide it using SID codes™. (See
Part F - Operational Features)
This configuration is used where all sites are required to
communicate via a repeater site. A repeater site is used because it
has a position and/or height advantage and thus provides superior
or extended RF coverage. The radio modem at the repeater does
not have to be physically connected to the application’s master
site. Information from the application’s master is transmitted to the
repeater via radio, and the repeater then relays this information to
the other field sites. In this scenario, the repeater is the master
from an RF point of view, and the application master is effectively a
“remote” from an RF point of view, even though it is controlling the
data transfer on the system.
Store and Forward Systems
Store and forward is used as a way of extending RF coverage by
repeating data messages from one site to another.
This can be done globally using the inbuilt data repeating functions, or
selectively using intelligent address based routing features available in
some PLC/RTU protocols.
In this case it is necessary for all units on the system to operate in
half duplex mode (only key-up when transmitting data), so that
each site is free to hear received signals from more than one
source.
A radio modem needs a minimum amount of received RF signal to
operate reliably and provide adequate data throughput.
In most cases, spectrum regulatory authorities will also define or
limit the amount of signal that can be transmitted, and the
transmitted power will decay with distance and other factors, as it
moves away from the transmitting antenna.
It follows, therefore, that for a given transmission level, there will be
a finite distance at which a receiver can operate reliably with
respect to the transmitter.
Apart from signal loss due to distance, other factors that will decay
a signal include obstructions (hills, buildings, foliage), horizon
(effectively the bulge between two points on the earth), and (to a
minimal extent at UHF frequencies) factors such as fog, heavy
rain-bursts, dust storms, etc.
In order to ascertain the available RF coverage from a transmitting
station, it will be necessary to consider these factors. This can be
done in a number of ways, including
(a)using basic formulas to calculate the theoretically
available signal - allowing only for free space loss due to
distance,
(b)using sophisticated software to build earth terrain models
and apply other correction factors such as earth curvature
and the effects of obstructions, and
(c)by actual field strength testing.
It is good design practice to consider the results of at least two of
There are basically two types of antennas – omni directional, and
directional.
Omni directional antennas are designed to radiate signal in a 360
degrees segment around the antenna. Basic short range antennas
such as folded dipoles and ground independent whips are used to
radiate the signal in a “ball” shaped pattern. High gain omni
antennas such as the “co-linear” compress the sphere of energy
into the horizontal plane, providing a relatively flat “disc” shaped
pattern which goes further because all of the energy is radiated in
the horizontal plane.
Directional antennas are designed to concentrate the signal into
“beam” of energy for transmission in a single direction (ie for pointto-point or remote to base applications).
Beamwidths vary according to the antenna type, and so can be
selected to suit design requirements. The most common UHF
directional antenna is the yagi, which offers useable beam widths
of 30-50 degrees. Even higher “gain” is available using parabolic
“dish” type antennas such as gridpacks.
Antenna Gain
By compressing the transmission energy into a disc or beam, the
antenna provides more energy (a stronger signal) in that direction,
and thus is said to have a performance “gain” over a basic omni
antenna. Gain is usually expressed in dBd, which is referenced to
a standard folded dipole. Gain can also be expressed in dBi, which
is referenced to a theoretical “isotropic” radiator. Either way, if you
intend to send and receive signals from a single direction, there is
advantage in using a directional antenna - both due to the
increased signal in the wanted direction, and the relatively
decreased signal in the unwanted direction (i.e. “interference
rejection” properties).
Tuning the Antenna
Many antennas are manufactured for use over a wide frequency
range. Typical fixed use antennas such as folded dipoles and yagis
are generally supplied with the quoted gain available over the
entire specified band range, and do not require tuning. Co-linear
antennas are normally built to a specific frequency specified when
ordering.
With mobile “whip” type antennas, it is sometimes necessary to
“tune” the antenna for the best performance on the required
frequency. This is usually done by trimming an antenna element
whilst measuring VSWR, or simply trimming to a manufacturer
supplied chart showing length vs frequency. These antennas would
normally be supplied with the tuning information provided.
Antenna Placement
When mounting the antenna, it is necessary to consider the
following criteria:
The mounting structure will need to be solid enough to withstand
additional loading on the antenna mount due to extreme wind, ice
or snow (and in some cases large birds).
For omni directional antennas, it is necessary to consider the effect
of the mounting structure (tower mast or building) on the radiation
pattern. Close in structures, particularly steel structures, can alter
the radiation pattern of the antenna. Where possible, omni
antennas should always be mounted on the top of the mast or pole
to minimise this effect. If this is not possible, mount the antenna on
a horizontal outrigger to get it at least 1-2m away from the
structure. When mounting on buildings, a small mast or pole (2-4m)
can significantly improve the radiation pattern by providing
clearance from the building structure.
For directional antennas, it is generally only necessary to consider
the structure in relation to the forward radiation pattern of the
antenna, unless the structure is metallic, and of a solid nature. In
this case it is also prudent to position the antenna as far away from
the structure as is practical. With directional antennas, it is also
necessary to ensure that the antenna cannot move in such a way
that the directional beamwidth will be affected. For long yagi
antennas, it is often necessary to instal a fibreglass strut to
stablilise the antenna under windy conditions.
Alignment of Directional Antennas
This is generally performed by altering the alignment of the
antenna whilst measuring the received signal strength. If the signal
is weak, it may be necessary to pre-align the antenna using a
compass, GPS, or visual or map guidance in order to “find” the
wanted signal. Yagi antennas have a number of lower gain “lobes”
centred around the primary lobe. When aligning for best signal
strength, it is important to scan the antenna through at least 90
degrees, to ensure that the centre (strongest) lobe is identified.
Page 14
When aligning a directional antenna, avoid placing your hands or
body in the vicinity of the radiating element or the forward beam
pattern, as this will affect the performance of the antenna.
The antenna is connected to the radio modem by way of an RF
feeder. In choosing the feeder type, one must compromise
between the loss caused by the feeder, and the cost, flexibility, and
bulk of lower loss feeders. To do this, it is often prudent to perform
path analysis first, in order to determine how much “spare” signal
can be allowed to be lost in the feeder. The feeder is also a critical
part of the lightning protection system.
All elevated antennas may be exposed to induced or direct
lightning strikes, and correct grounding of the feeder and mast are
an essential part of this process. Gas discharge lightning arresters
should also be fitted to any site that stands elevated or alone,
particularly in rural areas.
The E Series radio modems provide two asynchronous V24
compliant RS232 ports for connection to serial data devices.
There are two types of RS232 interfaces – DTE and DCE.
DTE stands for data terminal equipment and is generally applied to
any intelligent device that has a need to communicate to another
device via RS232. For example: P.C. Comm ports are always DTE,
as are most PLC and RTU serial ports.
DCE stands for data communication equipment and is generally
applied to a device used for sending data over some medium
(wires, radio, fibre etc), i.e. any MODEM.
The standard interface between a DTE and DCE device (using the
same connector type) is a straight through cable (ie each pin
connects to the same numbered corresponding pin at the other end
of the cable).
The “V24” definition originally specified the DB25 connector
standard, but this has been complicated by the emergence of the
DB9 (pseudo) standard for asynch devices, and this connector
standard has different pin assignments.
The wiring standard is “unbalanced”, and provides for three basic
data transfer wires (TXD, RXD, and SG – signal ground).
Hardware Handshaking
Hardware handshake lines are also employed to provide flow
control, however (in the telemetry industry) many devices do not
always support all (or any) flow control lines.
For this reason, the E Series modems can be configured for full
hardware flow control, or no flow control at all (simple 3 wire
interface).
Note: that when connecting devices together with differing
handshake implementations, it is sometimes necessary to “loop”
handshake pins in order to fool the devices handshaking
requirements.
In telemetry applications (particularly where port speeds can be set
to the same rate as the radio systems over-air rate) then flow
control, and therefore handshaking, is usually NOT required. It
follows that any devices that CAN be configured for “no flow
control” should be used in this mode to simplify cabling
requirements.
Handshaking lines can generally be looped as follows:
DTE (terminal) – loop RTS to CTS, and DTR to DSR and DCE.
DCE (modem) - loop DSR to DTR and RTS (note-not required for