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GE MDS 4790 Series Installation & Operation Manual
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GE MDS 4790 Series Installation & Operation Manual

400 mhz/900 mhz multiple address system master station radio
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MDS 4790/9790 Series
(including MDS 4790A/C/E/S, MDS 9790A)
400 MHz/900 MHz
Multiple Address System
Master Station Radio
MDS 05-3438A01, Rev. F
SEPTEMBER 2008
RSPSupply - 1-888-532-2706 - www.RSPSupply.com
http://www.RSPSupply.com/p-8457-MDS-UP-9790X.aspx

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Summary of Contents for GE MDS 4790 Series

  • Page 1 MDS 4790/9790 Series (including MDS 4790A/C/E/S, MDS 9790A) 400 MHz/900 MHz Multiple Address System Master Station Radio MDS 05-3438A01, Rev. F SEPTEMBER 2008 RSPSupply - 1-888-532-2706 - www.RSPSupply.com http://www.RSPSupply.com/p-8457-MDS-UP-9790X.aspx...

  • Page 2: Quick Start Guide

    QUICK START GUIDE 1. Install and connect the antenna system to the radio (page 9). • Use an appropriate antenna aimed at the associated station. • Use low-loss feedline suited for 400/900 MHz. Keep the feedline as short as possible. 2.

  • Page 3: Table Of Contents

    TABLE OF CONTENTS 1.0 INTRODUCTION..................1 2.0 PRODUCT DESCRIPTION ..............1 2.1 Network-Wide Diagnostics ............... 2 2.2 Redundant versus Non-redundant Operation ........2 2.3 Applications ..................3 Basic MAS Master Station Operation..........3 Repeater and Polling Remote Operation .......... 3 Simplex and Switched Carrier Operation..........
  • Page 4 Data Interface Connector—J3 ............23 Orderwire Connector—J9 ............... 24 Alarm Contacts—J10 ..............24 4.7 Post Installation Checks ..............26 5.0 START-UP AND OPERATION .............. 26 5.1 Initial Startup .................. 26 Normal Indications ................26 Maximizing RSSI................26 Coordinating Activities by Orderwire..........27 5.2 Front Panel Indicators ..............
  • Page 5 RSSI, RSSI! ..................52 RTU [ON/OFF/0-80]................ 52 RX [xxx]................... 52 RXLEVEL [–20 to +3]..............53 RXMUTE [ON/OFF/Time in msec] ..........53 RXPAD [ON/OFF] ................53 RXTOT [NONE, 1-1440] ..............53 SCD [0-255] ..................54 SER....................54 SHOW [DC/PWR/CURRENT/RADIO] ..........54 SNR, SNR!..................55 SREV ....................55 STANDBY [ON/OFF]...............
  • Page 6 Copyright Notice This Installation and Operation Guide and all software described herein are protected by copyright: 2008 GE MDS. All rights reserved. GE MDS reserves its right to correct any errors and omissions in this publication. Operational Safety Notices RF Exposure The radio equipment described in this guide uses radio frequency trans- mitters.
  • Page 7 Warning—400 MHz Distress Beacons In the U.S.A., the 406 to 406.1 MHz band is reserved for use by distress beacons. Since the MDS 4790 Series radio can transmit in this band, take precautions to prevent the radio from transmitting between 406 and 406.1 MHz.

  • Page 8: Environmental Information

    These systems will reuse or recycle most of the materials found in this equipment in a sound way. Please contact GE MDS or your supplier for more information on the proper disposal of this equipment.

  • Page 9: Introduction

    1.0 INTRODUCTION This guide presents installation and operating instructions for the MDS 4790 and MDS 9790 Series Master Station Radio. It begins with an overall description of radio features and is followed by the steps required to install the unit and place it into normal operation. Additionally, the guide contains troubleshooting tips for resolving system difficulties that you might encounter.

  • Page 10: Network-Wide Diagnostics

    2.1 Network-Wide Diagnostics Newer GE MDS remote and master station radios, including the MDS 4790/9790 Series, offer network-wide diagnostics capability. Net- work-wide diagnostics communications is a modern, packetized mode...

  • Page 11: Applications

    a transceiver board causes the boards to communicate briefly with each other to establish which board will operate as the active board and which operates as the stand-by. For more information, refer to “Transceiver Board and Power Supply Assemblies” on Page 2.3 Applications The MDS 4790/9790 Series radios are designed for point-to-multipoint data transmission in oil and gas pipeline communications, transactional...

  • Page 12: Simplex And Switched Carrier Operation

    REMOTE RADIO TX LOW TX LOW RX HIGH RX HIGH REMOTE RADIO TX LOW TX LOW RX HIGH RX HIGH REMOTE RADIO REMOTE RADIO CONTINUOUSLY KEYED TX HIGH REPEATER RX LOW REMOTE RADIO TX LOW RX HIGH TX LOW RX HIGH HOST SYSTEM POLLING REMOTE HALF-DUPLEX...

  • Page 13: Accessories

    • Primary power options for: 15, 24, 48, or 125 volt DC and 115/230 volts AC sources. • Configuration, control, and diagnostics from the front panel dis- play or a connected PC. • Remote diagnostics using a connected PC and radio software. •...

  • Page 14: Model Number Codes

    2.6 Model Number Codes The radio model number is printed on the serial number label, which is affixed to the radio chassis. The alpha-numeric string describes the unit’s hardware and software configuration as it was shipped from the factory. This model number is an important reference when speaking with, or writing to, the factory for assistance.

  • Page 15: Site Selection

    Site Selection For a successful installation, carefully select the site for the master sta- tion and the remote radios. Suitable sites offer: • An antenna location that provides an unobstructed path to all the remote radios in the system • A source of adequate and stable primary power •...

  • Page 16: A Word About Interference

    The test can be performed by installing a radio at each end of the pro- posed link and checking the RSSI value reported at the radio’s front panel display (refer to “Front Panel Indicators” on Page 27). If you do not obtain adequate signal strength, it might be necessary to mount the station antennas higher, use higher gain antennas, or select a different site for one or both stations.

  • Page 17: Antenna And Feedline Selection

    3.2 Antenna and Feedline Selection Antenna System The antenna system is perhaps the most crucial part of the system design. An antenna system that uses poor quality feedline, or is improp- erly aligned with the companion site, will result in poor performance or no communication at all.

  • Page 18: Installation Procedures

    losses as low as possible and certainly under 3 dB. Remember that for each 3 dB of feedline loss, half the transmitter power is lost, and twice the receive signal power is needed to produce the same signal-to-noise ratio. The RG-8A/U cable is a widely available and inexpensive feedline that is suitable for systems with short ranges or those with short feedlines.

  • Page 19: Unpacking And Inspection

    4.1 Unpacking and Inspection Figure 6 shows a typical radio shipment. Check the contents against the packing list secured to the outside of the shipping box. Accessories and spare parts kits, if any, are wrapped separately. Inspect all items for signs of damage.

  • Page 20: Rack Mounting

    Rack Mounting To rack-mount the radio, use the supplied mounting brackets (MDS P/N 82-3184A01) to secure the chassis to the rack cabinet. Attach the brackets at any of four points on the sides of the enclosure— front, back, middle facing front, and middle facing back (see Figure This flexibility ensures compatibility with most rack mounting arrange- ments.

  • Page 21: Primary Power

    3. Plug the RJ-11 connector into an in-line splice con- nector (P/N 73-1155A09). 4. Plug one end of the RJ-11 to RJ-11 extension cable into the in-line splice connector and the other end into the front of the chassis at the square cut-out.

  • Page 22: Ac-Powered Units

    Redundant units have two identical internal or external power supplies depending on the option chosen when the order was placed. Non-redun- dant units have only one internal or external power supply. The 15 Vdc models have an interface panel and switch on the chassis, but no internal supply.

  • Page 23: Backup Battery

    Invisible place holder Figure 10. Typical Rack-Mounted External DC Power Supply (with dual supplies) 4.4 Backup Battery A single backup battery is normally installed in AC-powered master sta- tions. To prevent battery discharge during shipment, the radio’s internal Battery Backup switch is set to OFF at the factory. Set this switch to ON during installation to activate the radio’s battery-backup feature.

  • Page 24: Low-Voltage Disconnect Feature

    Invisible place holder Figure 11. Battery Backup Switch Location (Front Panel Removed) Low-Voltage Disconnect Feature The Low-Voltage Disconnect Assembly contains a low-voltage discon- nect circuit. This circuit prevents damage caused when the backup bat- tery drops below 10.65 volts, such as during an extended AC power outage.

  • Page 25: Antenna Installation

    Low-Voltage Disconnect Assembly after installing the new battery (see Figure 12). Use a pen or other pointed object to press the switch. This enables the radio to operate until the new battery is dis- charged or the AC power is restored. Battery Reset Switch (See Text) Duplexer...

  • Page 26: Interface Wiring Connections

    When installing the feedline, do not kink, twist, or stretch the cable. After installation, fasten the cable securely to the antenna tower or other supporting structure. A Type-N connector is required to connect the feedline to the radio. Install the feedline connectors in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
  • Page 27 Invisible place holder Master Station Figure 14. Antenna Connection with Internal Duplexer (Most common arrangement) Application #2— This arrangement is used in systems where the duplexer is mounted External Duplexer externally to the radio. The radio’s ports are the only connec- tors present, and they connect to the duplexer as shown in Figure Contact the factory for duplexer ordering information.
  • Page 28 Invisible place holder Cavity Filter Master Station Figure 16. Antenna Connection with External Cavity Filter On units shipped prior to June 1, 2000, a maximum of two coaxial con- Application #4— External Duplexer nectors are included on the rear panel. If only one connector is present, and/or Cavity Filter it connects directly to the antenna as shown in Figure 14 on Page...

  • Page 29: Ground Connection

    Invisible place holder Ext. Duplexer Cavity Filter IN OUT Master Station Figure 18. RF Interconnections for Older Units (For units intended to operate with External Duplexer and/or Cavity Filter) Ground Connection A chassis grounding screw is located on the plate directly above the coaxial connectors.

  • Page 30: 4-Wire Audio Connector-J2

    Invisible place holder PIN 5— GROUND PIN 4— +5 Vdc PIN 3— TXD PIN 2— RXD UNUSED UNUSED UNUSED UNUSED PIN 7— RTS* * Used when reprogramming the radio firmware with a PC. Figure 19. Diagnostics Port Connector, J1 4-Wire Audio Connector—J2 J2 is a plug-in terminal strip that provides connections for 4-wire audio circuits.

  • Page 31: Data Interface Connector-J3

    Data Interface Connector—J3 The data connector on the radio’s rear panel is the main system data interface. It typically connects to the host computer. Refer to Figure 21 Table 5 on Page 23 for pinout details. Refer to Figure 22 on Page 24 for information on connecting the radio to a VOX assembly.

  • Page 32: Orderwire Connector-J9

    Table 5. Data Interface Pinout (Continued) Input/Output Pin Description Number No Connection 14.0 Vdc Output. Provides a regulated supply voltage at 1.5 A for low-power accessories. No Connection No Connection No Connection No Connection Do not connect—Reserved for future use. No Connection Figure 22.
  • Page 33 Terminals 1 and 2 provide solid state relay contacts that close when a minor alarm is detected. Terminals 3 and 4 provide relay contacts that close when a major alarm is detected. You can redefine these relay contacts using the radio’s software (switched from minor to major alarm outputs, or vice versa).

  • Page 34: Post Installation Checks

    4.7 Post Installation Checks Before applying power to the radio, verify that: 1. All connections are properly wired and secure. 2. The input voltage matches that of the installed power supply. 3. Antenna heading is preset in the direction of the associated station. This completes the radio installation.

  • Page 35: Coordinating Activities By Orderwire

    You can plug a telephone handset with a carbon microphone element into J9 on the rear panel to communicate with someone at the radio link. Handsets suitable for use with the radio are available from GE MDS (Part No. 12-1307A01).

  • Page 36: Led Indicators

    Invisible place holder ENTER ACTIVE STBY ALARM RX ALR TX ALR I/O ALR ESCAPE ACTIVE STBY ALARM RX ALR TX ALR I/O ALR LED INDICATORS LCD DISPLAY PROGRAMMING AND CONTROL KEYS Figure 24. Front Panel Controls and Indicators LED Indicators You can check the basic operation of the transceiver board(s) by viewing the LED indicators on the front panel.

  • Page 37: Front Panel Display

    Table 6. Explanation of Front Panel LEDs LED Name Color Meaning When Lit ACTIVE Green Transceiver board (A or B) is the selected unit. STBY Yellow Transceiver board (A or B) is currently in stand-by mode (functional on master station configured for redundant operation only).

  • Page 38: Diagnostics And Control

    6.0 DIAGNOSTICS AND CONTROL Configuration, control and diagnostics of the master station is per- formed by connecting a Windows PC running a terminal program or other GE MDS diagnostics software to a diagnostic port on the rear of the unit (Figure 27).
  • Page 39 2. Connect a DB-9 to DB-9 cable (Figure 28) between the PC and the radio’s rear panel (Figure 27 on DIAGNOSTIC PORT Page 30). DB-9 MALE CONNECTOR TO RADIO DB-9 FEMALE CONNECTOR TO PC Figure 28. PC Diagnostic Cable (DB-9 to DB-9)— MDS P/N 97-1971A04 3.

  • Page 40: Pc Command Summaries

    6.2 PC Command Summaries GE MDS radios are preconfigured with operating parameters that enable them to operate in most situations. Should you need to adjust your radio, either for a specific situation or to resolve a problem, this section describes commands for changing radio operating parameters.

  • Page 41: Commands And Command Parameters

    • Table 9 (Page 36) summarizes commands for obtaining information about the unit. Refer to Section 6.3, Detailed Command Descriptions, beginning on Page 37 for detailed information about these commands. Commands and Command Parameters You can use most commands in two ways: Typing only the command: For example: REPEATER displays the current information.
  • Page 42 Table 7. PC Commands—Radio Operation TERMINAL FRONT COMMAND PANEL MENU DESCRIPTION BATT(ery) [ON/OFF] Battery Backup Enable or disable alarms derived from monitor- Details, page 41 Details, page 73 ing the internal back-up battery. BAUD [xxxxx abc] Baud Rate/Format Set or display communication attributes for the Details, page 42 Details, page 70 data interface port...
  • Page 43 Table 7. PC Commands—Radio Operation (Continued) TERMINAL FRONT COMMAND PANEL MENU DESCRIPTION RX [xxx] Receive Frequency Set or display receive frequency Details, page 52 Details, page 69 RXLEVEL [–20 to +3] Receive Level [–20 to Set or display the analog audio receive level in Details, page 53 Details, page 75 RXPAD [ON/OFF]...
  • Page 44 Disable the transmitter Details, page 45 Details, page 72 MADDR [NONE, 1–255] Multi-Drop Address Unit address for use with GE MDS’ InSite NMS Details, page 48 (MADDR) software, where multiple master stations are Details, page 72 connected together at one location...

  • Page 45: Detailed Command Descriptions

    Table 9. PC Commands— Owner and Radio Information (Continued) FRONT PANEL PC COMMAND MENU DESCRIPTION SREV Software Revision Display software revision information Details, page 55 Details, page 78 UNIT [10000–65000] Unit Diagnostic Display the radio’s unit address Details, page 59 Address Details, page 59 6.3 Detailed Command Descriptions...
  • Page 46 Each bit of the hexadecimal response code represents a unique alarm event. The first 4-digit number indicates major alarm conditions; if there are no major alarms, this number is 0000. The second 4-digit number represents minor alarm conditions; if there are no minor alarms, this number is 0000.
  • Page 47 Code values for individual minor alarm conditions are given below: Table 11.Minor Alarm Conditions’ Hexadecimal Values Alarm Code Alarm Code Event Description (HEX) (Binary) Code 0000 8000 0000 0000 0000 0000 1000 0000 0000 0000 The unit address has not been programmed.

  • Page 48: Amask [0000 0000-Ffff Ffff]

    All major and minor alarms are “set” as the default AMASK. NOTE: GE MDS does not use all bits. Some bits are reserved for future use. The default AMASK is FFFF FFFF, which signals an alarm on the data port pin 25 for all major and minor alarms.

  • Page 49: Asense [Hi/Lo]

    = 1111 1111 1111 1111 1101 1111 1111 1111 (Binary) = FFFF DFFF (Hex) The only bit that you do not set is specific to the alarm you want to mask. Contact GE MDS for more information on configuring the alarm response. ASENSE [HI/LO]...

  • Page 50: Baud [Xxxxx Abc]

    BAUD [xxxxx abc] Data Interface Baud Rate Baud Rate/Format screen, Page 70 command displays or sets the communication attributes for BAUD port. The command has no effect on the RJ-11 DATA INTERFACE (nostics) port. DIAG Entering the command alone displays the baud rate along with BAUD asynchronous data attributes.

  • Page 51: Ckey [On/Off]

    The setting of this parameter affects the timing of received data sent from the connector. Data trans- DATA INTERFACE mitted over the air by the radio is unaffected by the setting. BUFF If data buffering is set to , the radio operates with the lowest possible average latency.

  • Page 52: Datakey [On/Off]

    Other delays may be present, depending on how other operating parameters are configured. Should you experience problems with repeater operation after changing values, contact GE MDS. DATAKEY [ON/OFF] Transmitter Keyed on Incoming Data...

  • Page 53: Dkey

    DKEY Dekey Transmitter Manual Key screen, Page 72 This command deactivates the transmitter after it has been keyed with command. If other keying sources are still active, then the trans- mitter will not dekey, but the manual key request is removed. DLINK [ON/OFF/xxxx] Diagnostics Link This command disables or re-enables network-wide diagnostics at the...

  • Page 54: Dtype [Node/Root/Gate/Peer]

    The default setting is NODE Refer to Section 7.2, Performing Network-Wide Radio Diagnostics, beginning on Page 84. Refer to the GE MDS Network-wide Diagnostics Handbook (P/N 05-3467A01) for a complete explanation of remote diagnostics. EMP [ON/OFF] TX & RX Emphasis...

  • Page 55: Key

    Table 12. Defaults for User-Configurable Function Value Continuous Key (CKEY) Data Baud Rate A: 9600 C: 19200 E: 4800 Data Format 8N1 (8 data bits, no parity, 1 stop bit) Device Behavior Diagnostics Message Gap (DMGAP) 3 ms Key-on-Data Mode (DATAKEY) Modem Analog: None (N/A for MDS 4790E) Digital:...

  • Page 56: Log [Clr]

    LOG [CLR] Operation Log Event Log screen, Page 79 Clear Logs screen, Page 79 This command displays or clears a list of the last 800 operating changes, called “system events.” These events include alarm notifications, as well as normal operator actions such as turning the power on or off. In many cases, you can review the events leading up to a failure to help determine the cause of a problem.

  • Page 57: Nmask [0000 0000-Ffff Ffff]

    Each bit that is a ‘0’ means that the alarm condition will not cause an alarm output relay to assert, and will not cause a transceiver board switch over. Contact GE MDS for more information on configuring the alarm response. MDS 05-3438A01, Rev. F MDS 4790/9790 Series I/O Guide RSPSupply - 1-888-532-2706 - www.RSPSupply.com...

  • Page 58: Opt

    Options Installed command lists each upgradable option and shows whether it is installed ( ) or not-installed ( ). For example: D i a g n o s t i c s : O N P re m i u m O p t i o n s : O F F D i g i t a l M o d e m : O N You can implement several optional features through the use of a soft- ware “authorization code”...

  • Page 59: Pwr [20-37]

    PWR [20–37] Transmitter Power Output Level Output Power Setting [37-20] screen, Page 69 This command sets or displays the master station’s RF forward output power setting. Entering the command without a parameter displays the forward output power in dBm. Entering the command with a parameter ranging from 20 to 37 (verify using the command) sets...

  • Page 60: Rssi, Rssi

    Remote Terminal Unit Simulator This command enables or disables the radio’s internal RTU simulator, which runs with GE MDS’ proprietary diagnostics software. The internal RTU simulator is an optional feature which is not available on all radios; use the command to see whether...

  • Page 61: Rxlevel [-20 To +3]

    RXLEVEL [–20 to +3] Received Data Audio Level Receive Level [–20 to +3] screen Page 75 (Page 59) commands control the audio level RXLEVEL TXLEVEL settings when the radio is operating in analog mode. When used alone, command displays the receive level in dBm. Entering the RXLEVEL command followed by a number from 20 to +3 resets the...

  • Page 62: Scd [0-255]

    (see “Simplex and Switched Carrier Operation” on Page If you experience problems with repeater operation after changing the values, contact GE MDS Technical Support. PTT, Serial Number Serial Number screen, Page 78 This command displays the radio’s serial number as recorded at the fac-...

  • Page 63: Snr, Snr

    S/N Ratio screen, Page 78 These commands display the signal-to-noise ratio in dB. GE MDS’ def- inition of signal-to-noise is based upon the signal level following equal- ization, for valid data frames only. A valid frame contains no more than one bit-error, and belongs to a packet addressed for the receiving radio.

  • Page 64: Standby [On/Off]

    STANDBY [ON/OFF] Standby Hardware Configuration Standby Equipment screen, Page 73 Use the command to notify the monitoring processor of the STANDBY presence of a second radio assembly within the chassis so that it can switch to the alternate radio if the primary radio assembly fails. = Chassis is equipped with two radio assemblies STANDBY ON = Chassis equipped with only one radio assembly...

  • Page 65: Temp

    The table below gives the text message displayed by the command for each alarm event. STAT Table 13. Text Messages of Alarm Event Codes Event Text Message Number Hardware mismatch Model number not programmed Authorization fault Synthesizer out-of-lock A/D fault Voltage regulator fault detected Radio not calibrated EEPROM write failure...

  • Page 66: Tot [On/Off, 1-255]

    Enter the command without any parameters to display the time. Enter the command in the following format to reset the time: TIME hh:mm:ss where hh is a two-digit number from 00-23 representing the hour ( 12:00 am; is 12:00 pm; and is 11:00 pm), mm is a two-digit number from 00 to 59 representing the minute, and ss is a two-digit number from 00 to 59 representing the second.

  • Page 67: Txgain [On/Off]

    TXGAIN [ON/OFF] Transmit Data Audio Gain Enhancement Transmit Gain screen, Page 75 This command enables or disables the transmit audio boost for the transmit audio level in radios operating in analog mode using J2: 4-WIRE . Entering the command without a parameter AUDIO INTERFACE TXGAIN shows whether the audio boost is...

  • Page 68: Configuration And Programming Using The Front Panel

    6.4 Configuration and Programming using the Front Panel If you cannot connect a PC running GE MDS diagnostics software to the radio, use the front panel display and controls to review and change operating parameters and perform diagnostics. This section explains how to use the front panel controls and screens.
  • Page 69 Invisible place holder RADIO START-UP MDS 4790 MAS Radio MDS 4790 MAS Radio ≥Configuration ENTER OWNERS NAME Diagnostics OWNERS MESSAGE Event Log ENTER ENTER MDS 4790 MAS Radio 4790 MAS Radio MDS 4790 MAS Radio ≥Configuration Configuration Configuration Diagnostics TO CHANGE SETTING: ≥Diagnostics Diagnostics Event Log...

  • Page 70: Programming And Control Buttons

    Programming and Control Buttons The programming and control buttons are located at the right side of the front panel. Use these butons to navigate through the front panel screens and, when the front panel display is in configuration mode, to make changes to radio operating parameters.

  • Page 71: Switching The Front Panel Display To Configuration Mode

    Invisible place holder M D S 4 7 9 0 M A S R a d i o -> C o n f i g u r a t i o n D i a g n o s t i c s Selection E v e n t L o g arrow...

  • Page 72: Changing Radio Functions

    • —Cancels the current radio functionality selection ESCAPE before you press the button a second time. ENTER • Up/down arrow buttons ( )—Cycles through the avail- able choices. Pressing the button when a particular ENTER choice is displayed reconfigures the radio using that setting. Changing radio functions 1.

  • Page 73: Group 3-Diagnostic Screens

    Group 3—Diagnostic Screens (Page The Diagnostic screens display important status information for the local and remote radio, as well as run several tests useful in locating system problems. Group 4—Event Log (Page The event log lists up to 800 of the most recent operating changes. These events include system problems, as well as normal operator actions such as turning the power on or off.
  • Page 74 Table 15. Front Panel Screens—Configuration Parameters FRONT PANEL TERMINAL SCREEN COMMAND DESCRIPTION Menu Directory Select diagnostic, configuration, or event log Details, page 68 screens. Modem MODEM Set or show internal modem speed. Details, page 69 [NONE/4800/9600/19200/ DEFAULT] Details, page 48 Output Power Setting PWR [20–37] Set or show the transmit power output.
  • Page 75 Table 16. Front Panel Screens—Diagnostics FRONT PANEL TERMINAL SCREEN COMMAND DESCRIPTION Active Radio Status STAT Show alarm conditions. Details, page 77 Details, page 56 Clear Logs LOG [CLR] Clear the event log. Details, page 79 Details, page 48 Event Log LOG [CLR] Show events logged by the active transceiver Details, page 79...
  • Page 76 GROUP 1—MAIN SCREENS Start-up Screen When the radio first powers on, or after a period of time has elapsed after the last button press, the front panel shows the start-up screen. The start-up screen shows M D S 4 7 9 0 M A S the product model number, as well as the owner’s name and message (typically, R a d i o customers use the owner name and message fields to display the system and site...
  • Page 77 NOTE: Changing the transmitter’s operating frequency may result in degraded or out-of-specification performance. Review Section 8.4, Operating Frequency Change Considerations, beginning on Page 89 before making a change. Receive Use this screen to set or show the receive frequency. Frequency Normally, the radio ships programmed with the customer-specified frequency.
  • Page 78 Baud Rate/Format Use this screen to set or show the communication attributes for the DATA BAUD INTERFACE port. For a description of the communication attributes, see B a u d r a t e / F o r m a t [xxxxx abc] command, Page...
  • Page 79 Soft-Carrier Use this screen to set or show the Soft-Carrier Dekey Delay. This specifies the amount of time to wait after a de-key request before actually de-keying the radio. De-key Delay When the delay is 0, the radio de-keys immediately following removal of a keying S o f t C a r r i e r D e - k e y signal.
  • Page 80 RX Mute Mode Use this screen to set or show the radio’s RX (receive) Muting status. RX muting might be required when the radio is configured as a full-duplex polling remote R X M u t e M o d e communicating through a repeater.
  • Page 81 Unit Address The unit address identifies the radio as a unique unit within a network managed by MDS’ InSite™ NMS software or similar program. This address is independent of U n i t A d d r e s s the Multi-Drop Address (above) and is needed only for local and over-the-air 2 0 6 7 diagnostics and control services of this unit through an NMS program such as...
  • Page 82 Press ENTER again to make the change. Note: This screen is associated with Network-wide Diagnostics. For more Network-wide Diagnostics manual information, refer to the (P/N 05-3467A01) available from GE MDS. DLINK [ON/OFF/xxxx] command, Page 45 Diagnostic Type Use this screen to set or show the radio’s function in a network-wide diagnostics...

  • Page 83: Display Contrast

    Evaluate system performance in the AUTO mode. In most cases, this setting provides satisfactory performance. If it does not, evaluate the BER at the other settings. TXLEVEL [–20 to +3, AUTO] command, Page 59 Receive Level [–20 Use this screen to set or show the radio’s audio receive level when the radio is operating as an analog device.Set the audio receive level from –20 to +3 dBm.
  • Page 84 To change the selection, press ENTER, then use the left/right arrow buttons to move the bar display to the desired setting. The screen changes dynamically to show the effects of the change. Press ENTER again to set the change. Backlight Intensity Use this screen to set the brightness of the front panel display’s background.

  • Page 85: Set Time

    Set Time Use this screen to set or show the time set in the radio. The accuracy of the date and time are important, because events are logged with the date and time. S e t T i m e To change the time, press ENTER, then use the left/right arrow buttons to select 1 2 : 0 4 : 0 3 A M the hour, minute, second, or AM/PM.
  • Page 86 S/N Ratio This screen shows the current signal-to-noise ratio in dBm. S / N R a t i o SNR, SNR! command, Page 55 Radio Selection Use this screen to set or show the transceiver board selection. When you select AUTO, automatic switchover is enabled.

  • Page 87: Local & Network-Wide Problem Solving

    GE MDS does not recommend component-level repairs in the field. However, you can replace the radio’s major assemblies without using tools or test equipment.

  • Page 88: Local Problem-Solving

    7.1 Local Problem-Solving Front Panel LEDs The first indication of a problem is usually an illuminated ALARM on the front panel. In normal operation, only the green ( ) LED is ACTIVE lit (and, in a master station configured for redundant operation, one of the yellow LEDs).

  • Page 89: Chassis-Mounted Leds

    Chassis-Mounted LEDs On current production radios, a series of additional LEDs are located behind the front panel on the chassis. These indicators are primarily for use in troubleshooting the radio and show important details about the status of the radio circuitry. To view the chassis LEDs, remove the front panel by grasping it along the bottom edge and pulling straight out (see Figure...

  • Page 90: Problem Solving Using A Connected Pc

    79). In many cases, you can review the events leading up to a failure to determine the cause of a problem. Event log messages are also helpful when calling GE MDS for technical assistance. MDS 4790/9790 Series I/O Guide MDS 05-3438A01, Rev. F RSPSupply - 1-888-532-2706 - www.RSPSupply.com...

  • Page 91: System Bench Testing Set-Up

    • Major alarms generally indicate a hardware failure or other abnormal condition that prevents (or hampers) further operation of the radio link. Most major alarms trigger a switch-over of internal transceiver board assemblies on a master station configured for redundant operation. •...

  • Page 92: Performing Network-Wide Radio Diagnostics

    For more information, see the InSite Radio System Management Soft- ware User’s Guide. You can find a complete explanation of remote diagnostics in the GE MDS Network-wide Diagnostics Handbook (P/N 05-3467A01). Refer to the handbook for more information about the basic diagnostic procedures outlined below.
  • Page 93 4. Use the commands to DLINK ON DLINK [baud rate] enable network-wide diagnostics and set the baud rate at the DIAG- port of each node radio. NOSTICS 5. Connect same-site radios using a null-modem cable at the radios’ ports. DIAGNOSTICS 6.

  • Page 94: Replacing Assemblies

    Figure 38. RJ-11 to DB-9 Adapter Cable 8.0 REPLACING ASSEMBLIES GE MDS does not recommend component-level repair of a transceiver board in the field due to the complex nature of the circuitry and the use of surface-mount technology throughout the radio. You should return malfunctioning assemblies to the factory (or authorized service center) for repair or replacement.

  • Page 95: Installation & Removal Of Backup Battery (P/N 28-1575Axx)

    Invisible place holder MAIN TRANSCEIVER BOARD POWER SUPPLY Figure 39. Main Transceiver and Power Supply Removal 8.2 Installation & Removal of Backup Battery (P/N 28-1575Axx) To install the backup battery, follow these steps: 1. Make sure AC power is removed and the switch BATTERY BACKUP is set to...

  • Page 96: Front Panel

    4. Locate the battery cable and connect it to the proper terminals on the battery. The red wire connects to the positive (+) terminal; the black wire connects to the negative (–) terminal. Backup Battery (P/N 28-1575Axx) Figure 40. Backup Battery Installation 5.

  • Page 97: Operating Frequency Change Considerations

    Invisible place holder Figure 41. Front Panel Removal/Replacement 8.4 Operating Frequency Change Considerations Changing the radio’s operating frequency through a terminal command or using the front panel is an easy process. However, there are fre- quency-sensitive components within the radio that could impact opera- tion on the new frequency—the receiver front-end helical coils and an internal duplexer, if one is present.

  • Page 98: Mds 4790-400 Mhz Notch-Type Duplexers

    Figure 42 can be aligned in the field by experienced technicians using high-quality test equip- ment. For assistance, contact GE MDS Technical Support for additional details about tuning. Figure 42. 400 MHz Notch Duplexer (No adjustment needed for transmit changes up to 100 kHz)

  • Page 99: Mds 4790/9790 Simplex Radios-With Antenna Switch Modules

    Significant deg- radation in receive bit-error rate (BER) is likely if the coils are not aligned properly. For assistance, contact GE MDS Technical Support for details about the tuning procedure. 8.5 Testing and Removing an Internal Duplexer...

  • Page 100: Removing The Internal Duplexer

    3. Using an adapter, connect the RF power meter to the SMA connec- tor on the vertical interface board, key the radio and measure the RF power. • If the power registers +39 dBm, the radio board is functioning correctly. •...

  • Page 101: Testing And Removing The Antenna Switch Module

    Use care when removing the duplexer. Physical damage may cause de- CAUTION tuning. POSSIBLE EQUIPMENT DAMAGE Figure 46. Internal Duplexer Removal 8.6 Testing and Removing the Antenna Switch Module The antenna switch connects the transmitter or receiver circuit to the sta- tion antenna in a simplex radio.

  • Page 102: Removing The Antenna Switch

    2. Open the radio chassis, locate the TX cable, and disconnect the cable from vertical interface board. 3. Using an adapter, connect the RF power meter to the SMA connec- tor on the vertical interface board, key the radio and measure the RF power.

  • Page 103: Cooling Fan Maintenance

    Figure 48. Location of Cooling Fan 9.0 RADIO SOFTWARE UPGRADES From time-to-time, GE MDS releases new software code for its radio products. You can download this code into existing radios to take advan- tage of engineering improvements, or to change the operation of a radio with a new modulation type.

  • Page 104: Preparing For Download

    Contact GE MDS Technical Support for details. Finally, if you have an InSite CD from GE MDS, it also will have radio code on it, but it might not be the latest version.

  • Page 105: Technical Reference

    10.0 TECHNICAL REFERENCE 10.1 Technical Specifications The following specifications apply to all models unless noted. GENERAL Size: 2RU (8.89 cm/3.5 inch) high 43.7 cm (17.2 in) wide 36.6 cm (14.3 in) deep (including internal duplexer and power supply) Weight: 9 kg (19.8 lbs.) maximum Frequency Range: MDS 4790A 330 to 512 MHz...
  • Page 106 TRANSMITTER ± Frequency Stability: 1.5 ppm ± Carrier Power Accuracy: 1.5 dB Adjacent Channel Power: –60 dBc Spurious Emissions: –36 dBm, 9 kHz to 1 GHz –30 dBm, 1 GHz to 12 GHz Frequency Range: MDS 4790: 330 to 512 MHz MDS 9790: 800 to 960 MHz Modulation Type: Binary CPFSK...

  • Page 107: Rf Propagation Planning

    (Continued) RECEIVER Errors at High Input +1 dBm at BER 10 –4 Levels: Bandwidth: 12.5 kHz, 25 kHz for C-model Intermodulation” 70 dB ENVIRONMENTAL ° Temperature Range –30 to 60 (with Full Performance): –22° to – 140°F ° Humidity 95% at 40 C, non-condensing Shock and Vibration MIL-810E shipping...

  • Page 108: Fresnel Zone Clearance

    To ensure a highly reliable path, a line of sight between both ends of the link is desirable. For short paths (up to 5 kilometers/3.1 miles), some obstructions might be acceptable, but the performance of a blocked path is always less predictable than a clear path. Fresnel Zone Clearance As the distance spanned by a link gets longer, it is necessary to have more than just a grazing path between the two ends;...

  • Page 109: Fade Margins

    Figure 50 shows a representation of the 4/3 earth “radio horizon.” This figure shows that under normal radio propagation condi- tions, a station with its antenna 15 meters above flat terrain will have a radio horizon approximately 15 kilometers away, well beyond the visual horizon.

  • Page 110: Calculating Path Loss

    Free Space Path Loss α 92.4 where: α = free space loss in dB d = path distance in kilometers ƒ = frequency in GHz Fresnel Zone Boundary ⋅ 17.3 ------------------- - where: = Fresnel zone boundary in meters = distance from one end of the path to the Fresnel zone boundary (in kilometers) = distance from the other end of the path to the Fresnel zone boundary (in kilometers)

  • Page 111: Dbm-Volts-Watts Conversion Chart

    10.4 dBm-Volts-Watts Conversion Chart Table 21 is provided as a convenience for determining the equivalent voltage or wattage of an RF power expressed in dBm. Table 21. dBm–Volts–Watts Conversion Chart dBm V dBm V dBm mV dBm µV 100.0 200W .225 1.0mW 0.80...
  • Page 112 MDS 4790/9790 Series I/O Guide MDS 05-3438A01, Rev. F RSPSupply - 1-888-532-2706 - www.RSPSupply.com http://www.RSPSupply.com/p-8457-MDS-UP-9790X.aspx...
  • Page 113 GLOSSARY Active Messaging—This is a mode of diag- Decibel (dB)—A measure of the ratio between two signal levels. Frequently used to express nostic gathering that may interrupt SCADA the gain or loss of a system. system polling communications (contrast with passive messaging).
  • Page 114 It is caused by reflections of the transmitted wave and results in distortion at the receiver or weak received signal strength. Network-Wide Diagnostics—An advanced method of controlling and interrogating GE MDS radios in a radio network. Non-intrusive diagnostics—See Passive mes- saging.
  • Page 115 INDEX installation & removal 87 BAUD command (set/display communication attributes for Access Level screen 68 DATA INTERFACE port) 42 Accessories 5 Baud rate accessory 5 set/display baud rate/format (Baud Rate/Format screen) ACTIVE LED 29 Active Radio Status screen 77 setting for RJ-11 DIAG port (DLINK command) 45, 84 ALARM command (display current alarm status in hexadeci- Baud Rate/Format screen 70 mal format).
  • Page 116 DKEY (deactivate transmitter). See also KEY command characteristics 97 connector pinouts, table 23 DLINK (enable/disable network-wide diagnostics) 45 connector, illustrated 23 DMGAP (set time to wait between characters) 45 connector, installing 22 DTYPE (set radio to root or node for diagnostics) 46 enable/disable buffering (LCD screen) 74 HREV (display hardware revision level) 46 Data Buffering screen 74...
  • Page 117 screen) 73 key-on-data mode (DATAKEY command) 44 Emphasis LCD background brightness (Backlight Intensity screen) enable/disable (Emphasis screen) 70 Emphasis screen 70 list of installed radio options (OPT! command) 50 Enable/disable owner message (OWM command) 50 audio transmit boost (Transmit Gain screen) 75 owner message (Set Owner Message screen) 76 continuous keying (CKEY command) 43 owner name (OWN command) 50...
  • Page 118 clearance 100 INIT command (reset customer-programmable settings) 46 obstructions, illustrated 100 InSite software, using to perform remote diagnostics 84 Front panel Installation controls, illustrated 62 alarm contacts 24 ENTER button 62 antenna and feedline selection 9 ESCAPE button 62 audio connector 22 illustrated 28 battery power, connecting 15 indicators 27...
  • Page 119 main screens 68 enable/disable internal RTU (RTU command) 52 Menu Directory screen 68 illustrated 85 menu flowchart 61 set radio to root or node (DTYPE command) 46 operating parameters commands, table 65 set time to wait between characters (DMGAP command) owner and radio information commands, table 67 screen descriptions 64–79 NMASK command (classify minor alarm events).
  • Page 120 diagnostics using LED indicators 80 set/display (Repeater Mode screen) 71 diagnostics, local 80–84 Replacing feedline installation 17 assemblies 86 installation 10–26 transceiver board 86 installation planning 6–10 Requirements for installation 6 mounting the radio 11 RF propagation planning 99 navigating LCD screens 62 RSSI post-installation checks 26 display (LCD screen) 77...
  • Page 121 selecting a main menu item 63 receive frequency (RX command) 52 selection arrow 62 receive time-out timer value (RXTOT command) 53 Serial Number 78 received data handling mode (BUFF command) 42 Set Date 77 repeater mode (Repeater Mode screen) 71 Set Owner Message 76 RF forward output power (PWR command) 51 Set Owner Name 76...
  • Page 122 explanation of front panel LEDs 29, 80 use in radio configuration 64 feedline loss chart 10 hexadecimal values for major alarm conditions 38 operating parameters, LCD screen commands 65 Volts, conversion to dBm or watts, table 103 owner and radio information commands, PC 36 VOX 5, 22, 23, 24 owner and radio information, LCD screen commands 67 PC commands--diagnostics 35...

  • Page 123: In Case Of Difficulty

    IN CASE OF DIFFICULTY... GE MDS products are designed for long life and trouble-free operation. However, this equipment, as with all electronic equipment, may have an occasional component failure. The following infor- mation will assist you in the event that servicing becomes necessary.
  • Page 124 GE MDS, LLC 175 Science Parkway Rochester, NY 14620 General Business: +1 585 242-9600 FAX: +1 585 242-9620 Web: www.GEmds.com RSPSupply - 1-888-532-2706 - www.RSPSupply.com http://www.RSPSupply.com/p-8457-MDS-UP-9790X.aspx...

This manual is also suitable for:

Mds 4790aMds 9790 seriesMds 4790sMds 9790aMds 4790cMds 4790e

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