ADTRAN TRACER 4x03 User manual

612804103L1-18A © 2004 ADTRAN, Inc. 1
Converting the Frequency Plan of a TRACER 4x03 System
Introduction
TRACER 4x03 systems are shipped from the factory with the frequency plan programmed as Plan A or Plan B.
Each wireless link must contain a Plan A radio on one end and a Plan B on the other. A frequency plan
conversion may be performed in the field, but should only be attempted if absolutely necessary and must
always be performed by qualified personnel. This document outlines the procedure for changing the frequency
plan of a TRACER 4x03 system (TRACER 4103 or TRACER 4203).
Prerequisite Procedures
The current frequency plan configuration is listed on a label located on the rear panel of the unit (near the
Antenna connector). Record the current configuration before beginning this procedure.
Tools and Materials Required
• 5/16” Torque wrench (8 in-lbs)
• 3/16” nut driver
• Phillips-head screw driver
Disconnect all cables attached to the TRACER 4x03 system (including power, data,
terminal RS-232, etc.) before performing this procedure.
Do not attempt to perform the conversion without the proper tools (see list below). Using
improper tools will damage the unit.
Electronic equipment can be damaged by static electrical discharge. Before handling
equipment, put on an antistatic discharge wrist strap to prevent damage to components.
Place equipment in antistatic packing material when transporting or storing. When
working on equipment, always place it on an approved antistatic mat that is electrically
grounded.

TRACER 4x03 Frequency Conversion Document
2 © 2004 ADTRAN, Inc. 612804103L1-18A
1. Remove the screws from the chassis cover using a Phillips-head screwdriver (see Figure 1).
Figure 1. Removing the Cover Screws (TRACER 4x03)
2. Remove the nuts on either side of the RS-232 connector (on the rear panel of the unit) using the 3/16”
nut driver (see Figure 2).
Figure 2. Removing the RS-232 Nuts
3. Carefully slide the cover toward the back of the unit until the front edge of the cover is disconnected
from the front of the unit. Lift the cover off and set aside.
Perform the steps below in the order listed.
Remove all connected mounting brackets before attempting to remove the unit cover.
TOP OF UNIT
BOTTOM OF UNIT

TRACER 4x03 Frequency Conversion Document
612804103L1-18A © 2004 ADTRAN, Inc. 3
4. Verify the current frequency plan configuration. To verify the plan, check the connections between the
J connectors (located on the board and labeled J1 and J2) and the Chan connectors (located on the
diplexer). The Chan connectors are labeled 2421 (Chan 1) and 2462 (Chan 2) for most TRACER 4103
systems and CH1 and CH2 for most TRACER 4203 systems. The following table outlines the
connections for Plan A and B.
Click to see a digital image of the J connectors or the Chan connectors.
5. Using the torque wrench, disconnect both cables from the Chan connectors on the diplexer. Do not
attempt to disconnect the J connectors (located on the board) as this will cause damage. Click here for
a digital picture of this step.
6. Carefully flex the cables to swap the connections. Be careful with the RF cables, making sure that the
minimum bend radius of the cable is greater than 0.75"; bends and loops smaller than a quarter will
cause the RF cable to break. Use the wiring guidelines in Figure 3 and Figure 4 on page 4 for help with
wire placement. Click here for a digital picture of this step.
Figure 3. TRACER 4103 Cable Routing Diagrams
TRACER 4x03
PLAN CHAN 1 CHAN 2
AJ2 J1
BJ1 J2
Allowing the RF cables to sit on the processor and radio boards (green) could cause
damage to the boards; keep the RF cables off the boards while re-routing them. Click here
for a digital picture of this mistake.
2462
2421
2462
2421

TRACER 4x03 Frequency Conversion Document
4 © 2004 ADTRAN, Inc. 612804103L1-18A
Figure 4. TRACER 4203 Cable Routing Diagrams
7. Use the torque wrench to reconnect the RF cables to the Chan connectors. Tighten the cables by
turning clockwise until you hear a click from the wrench. DO NOT overtighten connectors as this will
cause the RF cable to break. The TRACER 4x03 system will not operate properly with broken RF
cables.
8. Reinstall the cover and carefully tighten all screws.
9. Change label on back of the unit to reflect the Plan change.
CH1
CH2
CH1
CH2

>> BACK

>> BACK

>> BACK

>> BACK

>> BACK