CalAmp Viper 100 User manual

VIPER SC™VIPER SC+™
IP ROUTER FOR LICENSED SPECTRUM
User Manual
PN 001-5008-000 Rev 11
Revised August 2011

REVISION HISTORY
REV
DATE
DESCRIPTION
REV 0
Jan 2008
Initial Release as 001-5008-000.
REV 1
May 2008
Update Dual Port Viper SC information.
REV 2
Sept 2008
Added information about SNMP. Updated Firmware Upgrade instructions.
REV 3
Dec 2008
Added information about TCP Client Server Mode. Added information about
Saving/Restoring User Configuration files.
REV 4
Apr 2009
Added information about V1.5 Viper SC code release. Added information about TCP Proxy
Feature. Added note to RF Acknowledgment section. Corrected Viper SC Power Cable Part
in Accessory Table. Added specifications and part number for 900 MHz Viper SC. Updated
RF Exposure Compliance requirements. Added Choosing an IP Addressing Scheme
REV 5
Jul 2009
Added information about V1.6 Viper SC code release. Added information about Listen
Before Transmit Disable feature. Added section about RF MAC override feature. Added
section about the Periodic Reset feature. Added screen shot and information for the “Add
Static Entry” function
REV 6
Sept 2009
Added Listen Before Transmit Disable Feature. (Previously Read: Added Listen Before Talk
Disable Feature).
REV 7
Nov 2009
Updated user manual for product name change from ViPR to Viper SC
REV 8
Jun 2010
Added UL information. Added information and specifications for Viper SC-200. Added
information about V1.7 Viper SC firmware Release. Corrected radio firmware upgrade
command line instructions errors in Section 13.3 that were introduced in revision 7 of the
user manual. Added section about VPN. Added section about Radius. Updated SNMP
section. Updated screen captures and descriptions
REV 9
Sept 2010
Rebranded for Viper SC, Updates to Security –VPN Section 4.5.3.
REV 10
Aug 2011
Added VHF ETSI Viper Part Numbers and ETSI Base Station part numbers (Section 1.5).
Added sensitivity numbers for VHF ETSI Viper (Appendix A). Added additional regulatory
certifications for VHF ETSI Viper (Appendix B).
Updated VHF ETSI frequencies from 136-174 to 142-174MHz.
Added frequency ranges for ETSI and AS/NZ compliant models in section 1.2.
Rearranged model number layout in Appendix A.
Added standards information to Appendix B.
Updated RF Exposure Compliance Recommendations.
Updated Unit Identification and Status mode selection, section 4.1.1.
Updated Diagnostics Info –SNR from RF-MAC, section 4.1.2.
Channel Table/Current Settings mode selection changed, section 4.3.3.
Multicast section updated, section 4.4.3.
IP Optimization updates, section 4.4.4.
VPN Configuration updates, section 4.5.3.
Remote Statistics added, section 4.6.3.
SINAD Meter added to RF Tests, section 4.7.5.
Wing Commander pages added, section 4.7.6.
REV 11
Aug 2011
Updated EU and EFTA Member States’ Acceptable Frequency Table in Appendix B.
REV 12a
July 2013
Add ViperSC+ Model Numbers

Important Notice
Because of the nature of wireless communication, transmission and reception of data can never be guaranteed. Data may
be delayed, corrupted (i.e., have errors), or be totally lost. Significant delays or losses of data are rare when wireless devices
such as the Viper SC are used in a normal manner with a well-constructed network. Viper SC should not be used in
situations where failure to transmit or receive data could result in damage of any kind to the user or any other party,
including but not limited to personal injury, death, or loss of property. CalAmp accepts no responsibility for damages of any
kind resulting from delays or errors in data transmitted or received using Viper SC, or for the failure of Viper SC to transmit
or receive such data.
Copyright Notice
© 2010 CalAmp. All rights reserved.
Products offered may contain software proprietary to CalAmp. The offer of supply of these products and services does not
include or infer any transfer of ownership. No part of the documentation or information supplied may be divulged to any
third party without the express written consent of CalAmp. CalAmp reserves the right to update its products, software, or
documentation without obligation to notify any individual or entity. Product updates may result in differences between the
information provided in this manual and the product shipped.
RF Exposure Compliance Requirements
The Viper SC radio is intended for use in the Industrial Monitoring and Control and SCADA markets.
The Viper SC unit must be professionally installed and must ensure a minimum separation distance
listed in the table below between the radiating structure and any person. An antenna mounted on a
pole or tower is the typical installation and in rare instances, a 1/2-wave whip antenna is used.
Antenna Gain
Min Safety Distance (cm @max power)
5 dBi
10 dBi
15 dBi
VHF
123cm
219cm
389cm
UHF
122cm
217cm
386cm
900 MHz (Model # 1405098304)
66 cm
117 cm
208 cm
900 MHz (Model # 1405098504)
64 cm
114 cm
202 cm
It is the responsibility of the user to guarantee compliance with the FCC MPE regulations when operating this device in a way
other than described above. The installer of this equipment must ensure the antenna is located or pointed such that it does
not emit an RF field in excess of Health Canada limits for the general population.
Viper SC uses a low power radio frequency transmitter. The concentrated energy from an antenna may pose a health
hazard. People should not be in front of the antenna when the transmitter is operating.
Recommended safety guidelines for the human exposure to radio frequency electromagnetic energy are contained in the
Canadian Safety Code 6 (available from Health Canada), the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Bulletin 65 and the
Council of the European Union’s Recommendation of 12 July 1999 on the limitation of exposure of the general public to
electromagnetic fields (0 Hz to 300 GHz) (1999/519/EC).

Class A Digital Device Compliance
NOTE: This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class A digital device, pursuant to part 15 of
the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference when the
equipment is operated in a commercial environment. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency
energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instruction manual, may cause harmful interference to radio
communications. Operation of this equipment in a residential area is likely to cause harmful interference in which case the
user will be required to correct the interference at his own expense.
Any changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance (in the country where used)
could void the user's authority to operate the equipment.

Table of Contents
1PRODUCT OVERVIEW ...................................................................................................................................................1
1.1 General Description..............................................................................................................................................1
1.2 Operational Characteristics ..................................................................................................................................1
1.3 Physical Description .............................................................................................................................................2
1.3.1 Chassis Dimensions ..............................................................................................................................................2
1.3.2 LED Panel .............................................................................................................................................................2
1.3.3 Front Panel...........................................................................................................................................................3
1.4 Product Warranty.................................................................................................................................................5
1.5 Models and Availability ........................................................................................................................................5
2NETWORK ARCHITECTURE AND SYSTEM PLANNING ....................................................................................................9
2.1 Network Architecture...........................................................................................................................................9
2.1.1 Point-to-Point ....................................................................................................................................................10
2.1.2 Point-to-Multipoint............................................................................................................................................10
2.1.3 Report by Exception...........................................................................................................................................11
2.1.4 Extending the Coverage Area with a Relay Point...............................................................................................11
2.2 IP Forwarding Modes .........................................................................................................................................11
2.2.1 Bridge Mode ......................................................................................................................................................12
2.2.2 Router Mode......................................................................................................................................................14
2.2.3 Multispeed Networking .....................................................................................................................................16
2.3 System Planning .................................................................................................................................................17
2.3.1 Understanding RF Path Requirements...............................................................................................................17
2.3.2 Terrain and Signal Strength................................................................................................................................18
2.3.3 Radio Interference .............................................................................................................................................18
2.3.4 Selecting Antenna and Feedline ........................................................................................................................18
3QUICKSTART ..............................................................................................................................................................20
3.1 PC LAN Setup......................................................................................................................................................20
3.2 Install the Antenna.............................................................................................................................................20
3.3 Measure and Connect Primary Power ................................................................................................................20
3.4 Connect Viper SC to Programming PC.................................................................................................................21
3.5 Configure Your Viper ..........................................................................................................................................21
3.5.1 Initial Installation Login......................................................................................................................................21
3.5.2 Setup Wizard......................................................................................................................................................22

4WEB INTERFACE ......................................................................................................................................................... 26
4.1 Unit Status .........................................................................................................................................................27
4.1.1 General...............................................................................................................................................................27
4.1.2 Diagnostics.........................................................................................................................................................28
4.2 Setup Wizard......................................................................................................................................................31
4.3 Basic Setup .........................................................................................................................................................31
4.3.1 General...............................................................................................................................................................31
4.3.2 IP Settings ..........................................................................................................................................................33
4.3.3 Channel Table ....................................................................................................................................................34
4.3.4 Serial Ports .........................................................................................................................................................36
4.4 Setup (Advanced) ...............................................................................................................................................41
4.4.1 RF Optimizations/MAC Advanced Settings ........................................................................................................42
4.4.2 IP Services ..........................................................................................................................................................44
4.4.3 IP Addressing......................................................................................................................................................55
4.4.4 IP Optimization ..................................................................................................................................................57
4.4.5 IP routing............................................................................................................................................................59
4.4.6 Time Source .......................................................................................................................................................59
4.4.7 Alarm Reporting/Diagnostic Settings.................................................................................................................60
4.4.8 User Settings ......................................................................................................................................................61
4.5 SECURITY............................................................................................................................................................62
4.5.1 Password and Encryption...................................................................................................................................62
4.5.2 Radius.................................................................................................................................................................62
4.5.3 VPN ....................................................................................................................................................................65
4.6 STATISTICS..........................................................................................................................................................72
4.6.1 Ethernet Interface..............................................................................................................................................73
4.6.2 Serial Interface...................................................................................................................................................73
4.6.3 RF Interface........................................................................................................................................................73
4.7 MAINTENANCE ...................................................................................................................................................75
4.7.1 Ping Test.............................................................................................................................................................75
4.7.2 Config Control ....................................................................................................................................................76
4.7.3 Package Control .................................................................................................................................................77
4.7.4 Net Tests ............................................................................................................................................................77
4.7.5 RF Tests ..............................................................................................................................................................80
4.7.6 Wing Commander ..............................................................................................................................................80
4.7.7 Feature Options .................................................................................................................................................83

4.8 NETWORK MANAGEMENT/NEIGHBOR TABLE ....................................................................................................83
4.8.1 Neighbor Discovery............................................................................................................................................84
4.8.2 Status .................................................................................................................................................................89
4.8.3 Maintenance ......................................................................................................................................................89
5NETWORK OPTIMIZATION ......................................................................................................................................... 90
5.1 Maximizing TCP/IP Throughput ..........................................................................................................................90
5.2 Maximizing Throughput with a Weak RF Link.....................................................................................................90
5.2.1 Use Router Mode with RF Acknowledgements Enabled ...................................................................................90
5.2.2 Reduce RF Network Bit Rate ..............................................................................................................................90
5.2.3 Increase OIP and MAC Retries Limit ..................................................................................................................91
6UPGRADING YOUR FIRMWARE .................................................................................................................................. 92
6.1 Upgrade Procedure (Modem).............................................................................................................................92
6.2 Upgrade Procedure (Radio) ................................................................................................................................92
6.3 Verify File Integrity.............................................................................................................................................94
APPENDIX A –SPECIFICATIONS.......................................................................................................................................... 95
APPENDIX B –REGULATORY CERTIFICATIONS..................................................................................................................102
APPENDIX C –PRODUCT WARRANTY............................................................................................................................... 106
APPENDIX D –DEFINITIONS .............................................................................................................................................107

#9 Viper_SC_Manual_001-5008-000_Rev12e.docx | Page 1
1PRODUCT OVERVIEW
Viper SC provides any IP-enabled device with connectivity to transmit data. This DSP-based radio was designed for industrial
applications utilizing 136-174 MHz, 215-240 MHz VHF, 406.1-512 MHz UHF, 880-902 and 928-960 MHz frequencies.
Operational as a wideband IP Modem or Router, Viper SC is optimized for use in SmartGrid, Distribution Automation, and
SCADA applications. SCADA applications are defined as those with one or more centralized control sites used to monitor
and control remote field devices over wide areas. For example, a regional utility may monitor and control networks over an
entire metropolitan area. Industry sectors with SCADA systems include energy utilities, water and wastewater utilities, and
environmental groups.
1.1 GENERAL DESCRIPTION
Designed to replace wire lines, the Ethernet and RS-232 serial ports allow direct connection to Programmable Logic
Controllers (PLCs) or Remote Terminal Units (RTUs). Viper supports serial and Ethernet/IP Remote Terminal Units (RTU) and
programmable logic controllers (PLC). It is standard IEEE 802.3 compliant. Viper supports any protocol running over IPv4
(including ICMP, IPinIP, IPSec, RSVP, TCP and UDP protocols). It provides MAC layer bridging and HTTP, ARP, and static
routing packet forwarding.
1.2 OPERATIONAL CHARACTERISTICS
Viper has the following operational characteristics:
Frequency range of 136-174 MHz, 215-240 MHz, 406.1-470 MHz, 450-512 MHz, 880-902 or 928-960 MHz
142-174 MHz, 406.1-470 MHz, and 450-512 MHz frequency ranges certified for European Union (ETSI EN300 113)
142-174 MHz, 406.1-470 MHz, and 450-512 MHz frequency ranges certified for Australia/New Zealand (ACMA
AS/NZS 4925-2004 (Spectrum Impact Assessment))
User-selectable data rates –up to 128 kbps @ 50 kHz
Wide input power range of 10 to 30 volts DC
Built-in transceiver adjustable from 1 to 10 watts (8 watts max for 900MHz)
Used as an access point or an end point with each configurable in (a) Bridge mode for quick setup of units on same
network or (b) Router mode for advanced networks
Embedded web server to access status and/or setup information
Remote access for over-the-air system firmware upgrades
Advanced AES 128-bit data encryption and security designed to meet FIPS 140-2 requirements
Superior data compression (zlib compression algorithm applies to Serial and IP connections)
Native UDP and TCP/IP support
Online and Offline Diagnostics
Supports up to 32 different frequency channel pairs
Rugged die-cast aluminum and steel case
UL Certified when powered by a listed Class 2 source

#9 Viper_SC_Manual_001-5008-000_Rev12e.docx | Page 2
1.3 PHYSICAL DESCRIPTION
Viper consists of two logic PCBs, one that includes the modem circuitry and the other the radio module. Both are installed
in a cast aluminum case. The unit is not hermetically sealed and should be mounted in a suitable enclosure when dust,
moisture, and/or a corrosive atmosphere are anticipated.
1.3.1 CHASSIS DIMENSIONS
Figure 1 shows the dimensions of the chassis and mounting plate.
Figure 1 –Chassis and Mounting Plate
The equipment is intended for installation only in a RESTRICTED ACCESS LOCATION per EN60950-1:2006
1.3.2 LED PANEL
There are five (5) Tri-Color LEDs. Their functionality is shown in Table 1.
Table 1 –LED Functionality
LED
Color
Definition
Power
Green
Red
Viper SC ready, normal operations
Viper SC hardware fault
Status
Green
Blinking Green
Red
Amber (Solid or Blinking)
Viper SC no faults, normal operations
Viper SC scanning for neighbors
Viper SC has a fault condition, check unit status
Viper SC detects high background noise

#9 Viper_SC_Manual_001-5008-000_Rev12e.docx | Page 3
LED
Color
Definition
ACT
Blinking Green
Off
Ethernet activity detected on PHY link (RJ45)
No Ethernet activity on PHY link (RJ45)
Lnk
Green
Off
Ethernet connection established (RJ45)
No Ethernet connection (RJ45)
Rx/Tx
Green
Red
Receiving data
Transmitting data
1.3.3 FRONT PANEL
Shown in Figure 2, the front panel has the following connections:
(1) RJ-45 LAN 10 BaseT Ethernet connection with Auto-MDIX
(1) 50-ohm TNC female Antenna connector
(1) 50-ohm SMA female receive antenna connector (Dual-Port models only)
(1) Right-angle power connector (10-30 VDC)
(2) DE-9F RS-232 ports
Figure 2 –Front Panel (Dual Port Viper-200 Shown)
1.3.3.1 ETHERNET LAN PORT
The Ethernet LAN port is an RJ-45 receptacle with a 10 BaseT Ethernet connection and Auto-MDIX. Refer Table 2 for pin out
descriptions and Section 4.6.1 to configure the LAN settings for this port.
Table 2 –Pin-out for IEEE-802.3 RJ-45 Receptacle Contacts
Contact
10 Base-T Signal
1
TXP(1)
2
TXN(1)
3
RXP(1)
4
SPARE
5
SPARE

#9 Viper_SC_Manual_001-5008-000_Rev12e.docx | Page 4
Contact
10 Base-T Signal
6
RXN(1)
7
SPARE
8
SPARE
SHELL
Shield
(1) The name shows the default function. Given the Auto-MDIX capability of the Ethernet transceiver, TX and RX function
could be swapped.
1.3.3.2 SETUP AND COM PORTS
The SETUP and COM serial connections are DE-9F RS-232 ports. Refer to Table 3 for pin out descriptions and Section 4.3.4
for control line configuration of DCD, DTR, RTS and CTS control lines.
Serial port considerations:
Viper SETUP and COM ports are Data Communication Equipment (DCE) devices
In general, equipment connected to the Viper SC’s serial ports is Data Terminal Equipment (DTE) and a straight-
through cable is recommended.
If a DCE device is connected to the Viper serial ports, a null modem cable/adapter is required.
Table 3 –Pin-out for DCE SETUP and COM port, 9 Contact DE-9 Connector
Contact
EIA-232F Function
Signal Direction
1
DCD(1)
DTE ←DCE
2
RXD
DTE ←DCE
3
TXD
DTE →DCE
4
DTR
DTE →DCE
5
GND
DTE --- DCE
6
DSR(2)
DTE ←DCE
7
RTS(1)
DTE →DCE
8
CTS(1)
DTE ←DCE
9
RING (3)
DTE --- DCE
(1) Programmable (2) Always asserted (3) For future use
1.3.3.3 POWER CONNECTOR
Viper is supplied with a right-angle power connector (10-30 VDC). Table 4 shows the pin-out of the power connector.
Table 4 –Power Connector Pin-out
Contact (Left to Right)
Color
Description
4
Fan Power Output (5V)
3
Black
Ground
2
Red
Positive (10-30) VDC
1
White
Enable

#9 Viper_SC_Manual_001-5008-000_Rev12e.docx | Page 5
The White Enable line must be tied to the red positive lead of the connector for the Viper SC to function.
WARNING –EXPLOSION HAZARD- Do not disconnect unless power has been removed or the area is known to
be non-hazardous
1.3.3.4 ANTENNA CONNECTOR
Standard Viper models have a 50-ohm TNC female antenna connector. This connection functions for both transmit and
receive. Dual-Port models feature a 50-ohm TNC female antenna connector functioning for transmit (only) and a 50-ohm
SMA female antenna connector functioning for receive (only). The separate receive antenna connector is ideal for
applications that require additional receive filtering, external PA(s) and other options.
Warning: The transmit antenna port must not be connected directly to the receive antenna port of the Dual-Port Viper SC.
Excessive power into the receive antenna port will damage the radio. Input power to the receiver should not exceed 17 dBm
(50mW).
To reduce potential interference, the antenna type and its gain should be chosen to ensure the effective isotropic radiated
power (EIRP) is not more than required for successful communication.
WARNING –EXPLOSION HAZARD- Do not disconnect unless power has been removed or the area is known to
be non-hazardous
WARNING -EXPLOSION HAZARD-Substitution of components may impair suitability for Class I, Division 2.
The unit must be powered with a Listed Class 2 or LPS power supply or equivalent.
The antenna connector is for connection to antennas housed inside of a suitable enclosure.
1.4 PRODUCT WARRANTY
It is our guarantee that every Viper SC Radio modem will be free from physical defects in material and workmanship for
ONE YEAR from the date of purchase when used within the limits set forth in APPENDIX A –SPECIFICATIONS. The
manufacturer's warranty statement is available in APPENDIX C –PRODUCT WARRANTY.
If the product proves defective during the warranty period, contact our Customer Service Department at [phone] to
obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA). BE SURE TO HAVE THE EQUIPMENT MODEL, SERIAL NUMBER, AND BILLING
& SHIPPING ADDRESSES AVAILABLE WHEN CALLING. You may also request an RMA number online at www.calamp.com.
1.5 MODELS AND AVAILABILITY
Viper SC is available in various models. Each is available with a range features, kits, and accessories. Refer to Table 5 for
product availability and ordering information. Refer to Table 6 for Viper SC antenna and antenna kits and Table 7 for Viper
SC accessories.
Table 5 –Viper SC Order Information
Model Number
Frequency Range
Description
140-5018-502
136 - 174 MHz
Viper SC-100
140-5018-503
136 - 174 MHz
Viper SC-100 (Dual Port)

#9 Viper_SC_Manual_001-5008-000_Rev12e.docx | Page 6
Model Number
Frequency Range
Description
250-5018-500
136 - 174 MHz
Viper SC-100 Demo Kit
140-5118-502
136 - 174 MHz
Viper SC-100 Standard Base Station
140-5318-502
136 - 174 MHz
Viper SC-100 Redundant Base Station
140-5028-502
215 - 240 MHz
Viper SC-200
140-5028-504
215 - 240 MHz
Viper SC+-200
140-5028-503
215 - 240 MHz
Viper SC-200 Dual Port
250-5028-502
215 - 240 MHz
Viper SC-200 Demo Kit
140-5128-502
215 - 240 MHz
Viper SC-200 Standard Base Station
140-5328-502
215 - 240 MHz
Viper SC-200 Redundant Base Station
140-5048-302
406.1 - 470 MHz
Viper SC-400 (Range 3)
140-5048-303
406.1 - 470 MHz
Viper SC-400 (Range 3) Dual Port
250-5048-300
406.1 - 470 MHz
Viper SC-400 (Range 3) Demo Kit
140-5148-302
406.1 - 470 MHz
Viper SC-400 (Range 3) Standard Base Station
140-5348-302
406.1 - 470 MHz
Viper SC-400 (Range 3) Redundant Base Station
140-5048-502
450 - 512 MHz
Viper SC-400 (Range 5)
140-5048-503
450 - 512 MHz
Viper SC-400 (Range 5) Dual Port
140-5048-600
450 - 512 MHz
Viper SC-400 (Range 5), AS/NZ Compliant
250-5048-500
450 - 512 MHz
Viper SC-400 (Range 5) Demo Kit
140-5148-502
450 - 512 MHz
Viper SC-400 (Range 5) Standard Base Station
140-5348-502
450 - 512 MHz
Viper SC-400 (Range 5) Redundant Base Station
140-5098-304
880 - 902 MHz
Viper SC+-890
140-5098-502
928 - 960 MHz
Viper SC-900
140-5098-504
928 - 960 MHz
Viper SC+-900
140-5098-503
928 - 960 MHz
Viper SC-900 Dual Port
250-5098-500
928 - 960 MHz
Viper SC-900 Demo Kit
140-5198-502
928 - 960 MHz
Viper SC-900 Standard Base Station
140-5398-502
928 - 960 MHz
Viper SC-900 Redundant Base Station
EN 300 113 Compliant, AS/NZ Compliant Versions
140-5018-600
142 - 174 MHz
Viper SC-100
EN 300 113 Compliant, AS/NZ Compliant
140-5018-601
142 - 174 MHz
Viper SC-100 Dual Port
EN 300 113 Compliant, AS/NZ Compliant
140-5118-600
142 - 174 MHz
Viper SC-100 Standard Base Station
EN 300 113 Compliant, AS/NZ Compliant
140-5318-600
142 - 174 MHz
Viper SC-100 Redundant Base Station
EN 300 113 Compliant, AS/NZ Compliant

#9 Viper_SC_Manual_001-5008-000_Rev12e.docx | Page 7
Model Number
Frequency Range
Description
140-5048-400
406.1 - 470 MHz
Viper SC-400 (Range 3)
EN 300 113 Compliant, AS/NZ Compliant
140-5048-401
406.1 - 470 MHz
Viper SC-400 (Range 3) Dual Port
EN 300 113 Compliant, AS/NZ Compliant
140-5148-400
406.1 - 470 MHz
Viper SC-400 (Range 3) Standard Base Station
EN 300 113 Compliant, AS/NZ Compliant
140-5348-400
406.1 - 470 MHz
Viper SC-400 (Range 3) Redundant Base Station
EN 300 113 Compliant, AS/NZ Compliant
140-5048-600
450 - 512 MHz
Viper SC-400 (Range 5)
EN 300 113 Compliant, AS/NZ Compliant
140-5048-601
450 - 512 MHz
Viper SC-400 (Range 5) Dual Port
EN 300 113 Compliant, AS/NZ Compliant
140-5148-600
450 - 512 MHz
Viper SC-400 (Range 5) Standard Base Station
EN 300 113 Compliant, AS/NZ Compliant
140-5348-600
450 - 512 MHz
Viper SC-400 (Range 5) Redundant Base Station
EN 300 113 Compliant, AS/NZ Compliant
Table 6 –Antenna Kits
Part Number
Frequency
Description
250-0211-007
138-143 MHz
6.5 dB Antenna Kit
250-0211-010
138-143 MHz
9.5 dB Antenna Kit
250-0211-107
143-148 MHz
6.5 dB Antenna Kit
250-0211-110
143-148 MHz
9.5 dB Antenna Kit
250-0211-207
148-152 MHz
6.5 dB Antenna Kit
250-0211-210
148-152 MHz
9.5 dB Antenna Kit
250-0211-307
152-157 MHz
6.5 dB Antenna Kit
250-0211-310
152-157 MHz
9.5 dB Antenna Kit
250-0211-407
157-163 MHz
6.5 dB Antenna Kit
250-0211-410
157-163 MHz
9.5 dB Antenna Kit
250-0211-507
163-169 MHz
6.5 dB Antenna Kit
250-0211-510
163-169 MHz
9.5 dB Antenna Kit
250-0211-607
169-174 MHz
6.5 dB Antenna Kit
250-0221-007
216-222 MHz
6.5 dB Antenna Kit
250-0221-010
216-222 MHz
9.5 dB Antenna Kit
250-0200-025
25 feet antenna feedline (LMR400), N-Male
250-0200-055
50 feet antenna feedline (LMR400), N-Male
250-0241-507
450-470 MHz
7 dB Antenna Kit
250-0241-510
450-470 MHz
10 dB Antenna Kit
250-0241-507
450-470 MHz
7 dB Antenna Kit

#9 Viper_SC_Manual_001-5008-000_Rev12e.docx | Page 8
Part Number
Frequency
Description
250-0241-510
450-470 MHz
10 dB Antenna Kit
250-5099-011
890-960 MHz
6.4 dB Antenna Kit
250-5099-021
890-960 MHz
10 dB Antenna Kit
Antenna Kits include premium antenna, mounting bracket, surge protector, grounding kit, cable ties, 18” TNC male to N-
male jumper cable and weather kit.
UHF and 900 kits include 25 feet of LMR400.
VHF kits require feedline be purchased separately. LMR400 feedline is available in 25 and 50 feet.
Table 7 –Accessories
Model Number
Description
250-0200-100
Barrel Connector, RF1 N type, Female
250-0697-103
TNC-Male to N-Male 18”
250-0697-104
TNC-Male to N-Male 48”
250-0697-105
TNC-Male to N-Male 72”
250-0697-106
TNC-Male to N-Female 18”
897-5008-010
Viper SC Power Cable
150-5008-001
Factory Installed Viper SC Fan Kit
150-5008-002
Field Installed Viper SC Fan Kit

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2NETWORK ARCHITECTURE AND SYSTEM PLANNING
This section discusses network architecture, basic network types, interfacing modems and DTE, data protocols for efficient
channel operation, as well as providing tips for selecting an appropriate site, antenna selection, and reducing the chance of
harmful interference.
2.1 NETWORK ARCHITECTURE
In a radio system, only one radio should transmit at a time. If two radios transmit at the same time to another radio, RF
collisions occur. Collisions will slow data traffic and may corrupt data. Most SCADA networks have a device that is
configured to be the ‘polling master’. It is the responsibility of this polling master to control RF traffic so RF collisions do not
occur.
Viper has RF collision avoidance technology (checks the air wave for a carrier before transmitting) and Ethernet CSMA
(Carrier Sense Multiple Access). CSMA is an Ethernet collision avoidance mechanism technology built into to all Ethernet
connections. However, these technologies must still be supplemented by the HMI/PLC polling master to optimize RF data
traffic.
Some HMI/PLC Ethernet applications may depend solely on Ethernet CSMA to control the flow of messages to avoid RF
collisions in a Viper data network. This may flood the network with multiple polling messages, making it difficult for the
RTUs to acquire the airwave to transmit their reply messages. This will cause the RTUs to compete for airtime and a
dominant RTU may be created.
While the dominant RTU/radio is transmitting, the other RTUs will send their reply messages to their connected Viper SC.
Viper SCs will buffer reply messages because the dominant RTU/radio is transmitting (carrier is present). A Viper SC will
buffer (while a carrier is present) a reply message until it can capture the airwave (carrier absent) to transmit. There could
be five or six RTU/radios in a small system (or 10 or 20 in a large system), which could be trying to capture the airwaves to
transmit. The RTUs will not respond in the order they were polled but will respond when they are ready and have captured
the airwaves. The dominant RTU is created because it happens to reply at just the right time and be in the right order in the
polling sequence.
A common method for a polling master to manage RF traffic is for the HMI/PLC polling master to poll one remote at a time.
The next polling message is not sent until the current message has been completed (“Done”) or has timed out. This
prevents more than one outstanding polling message. Ladder logic programs typically refer to these parameters as the
message “Done” and “Error” bits. The “Done” and “Error” bits parameter values can be adjusted for longer timeout values,
if required.
Because the Viper SC has the ability to use two completely different and separate SCADA polling protocols, it is important to
have interaction between the two protocols. The Viper SC can send out an Ethernet TCP/IP polling message and also an
RS232 polling message, which may or may not be generated by the same HMI/PLC. CalAmp recommends the user program
the polling sequence in each protocol with logic that interacts with the other’s protocol “Done” and “Error” bits. The
Ethernet polling protocol would not be allowed to send a message until the current Ethernet message is either “Done” or
“Error” and the previous RS232 message are either “Done” or “Error” bits are set. The RS232 polling protocol would also
have a similar logic.

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2.1.1 POINT-TO-POINT
A point-to-point network is the most simple of all networks, and may be used for connecting a pair of PC's, a host computer
and a terminal, a SCADA polling master and one remote, or a wide variety of other networking applications.
Figure 3 –Point to Point Network
2.1.2 POINT-TO-MULTIPOINT
A Point-to-Multipoint network is a common network type used in SCADA and other polling systems. The Master Polling
station communicates with any number of remotes and controls the network by issuing polls and waiting for remote
responses. Individual PLC/RTU remotes manage addressing and respond when their individual addresses are queried.
PLC/RTU unit addresses are maintained in a scanning list stored in the host program or master terminal device at the SCADA
host site. Communications equipment is transparent and does not interact with specific remotes; all data is coupled to the
host on a single data line (such a network is commonly used with synchronous radio modems and asynchronous radio
modems).
Figure 4 –Point to Multipoint Network

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2.1.3 REPORT BY EXCEPTION
In a true Report by Exception configuration, the remotes send data to the master only when an event or exception has
occurred in the remote. However, most Report by Exception systems have a master/remote polling component. The master
polls the remotes once every hour or half-hour to ensure there is still a valid communication path. In a Report by Exception
configuration, there will not be a master controlling RF traffic and RF collisions will often occur.
Viper has several collision avoidance features to help minimize collisions. Viper is a “polite radio”. This means Viper will
check the RF traffic on the receive channel before transmitting. If there is no RF traffic present (no carrier present) it will
transmit. If there is RF traffic (carrier present) the Viper SC will buffer the data. Viper will transmit the buffered data when
there is no RF traffic present.
2.1.4 EXTENDING THE COVERAGE AREA WITH A RELAY POINT
A Viper can be configured as a Relay Point. Relay Points provide store and forward repeating of necessary information from
one coverage area to the next. In Bridge mode all traffic is forwarded. In Router mode, only Broadcast Packets and address
specific packets are forwarded. There may be multiple Relay Points to extend coverage over several hops. Multiple relay
points in a single network may slow the flow of data traffic.
To configure your Viper as a Relay point, refer to Section 3.5.2.
Figure 5 –Two Coverage Areas
2.2 IP FORWARDING MODES
All Ethernet capable devices, or hosts, have at least one IP address and a subnet mask assigned to it. The IP address
identifies a specific device and the subnet mask tells the device which other IP addresses it can directly communicate with.
When any host needs to communicate with another device that is not within the same local area network it will first send
the data packet to the gateway or router. The gateway or router will forward the packet to the desired location. Often
times a packet will pass through several gateways or routers to get to its final destination.

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2.2.1 BRIDGE MODE
Bridge mode is the simplest configuration for all Viper networks. Viper may be configured for bridge mode only when all
devices are located on the same Local Area Network (LAN). Thus, all units in the network can communicate directly with all
other units in the network.
Each Viper has only one IP address assigned to it and the subnet mask is the same for every Viper in the network. Bridge
communications does not require each Viper to have a unique IP address, but it is highly recommended and necessary for
remote programming of the radio.
Every Viper ships from the factory with the default Ethernet IP address of 192.168.205.1 and a subnet mask of
255.255.255.0. The default subnet of the Viper consists of addresses from 192.168.205.0 to 192.168.205.255. The first and
last IP address of each subnet is reserved, no matter what the subnet size is. The first IP address in the subnet is the
Network ID. The last IP address in the subnet is the Broadcast Address.
Bridge Mode Example 1
Example one illustrates a sample Viper network. The subnet consists of IP addresses ranging from 192.168.205.0 to
192.168.205.255. The subnet mask is 255.255.255.0. This is sometimes written in shorthand notation as: 192.168.205.1/24
since the subnet mask 255.255.255.0 contains 24 ones then 8 zeros when it is converted to binary.
The first address 192.168.205.0 is reserved for the Network ID. The last address 192.168.205.255 is reserved for the
broadcast address. There are 254 valid IP addresses that may be assigned to hosts on the network.
Ethernet Subnet Mask 255.255.255.0
Network ID 192.168.205.0
Broadcast Address: 192.168.205.255
Viper #1 192.168.205.1/24
PLC/RTU # 192.168.205.10/24
Computer #1 192.168.205.100/24
Viper #2 192.168.205.2/24
PLC/RTU #2 192.168.205.20/24
Viper #3 192.168.205.3/24
PLC/RTU #3 192.168.205.30/24
Viper #4 192.168.205.4/24
PLC/RTU #4 192.168.205.40/24
…
Viper #100: 192.168.205.253/24
PLC/RTU #100: 192.168.205.254/ 24

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Figure 6 –Bridge Mode Example 1
Bridge Mode Example 2
The subnet for this Viper network is comprised of devices with IP addresses ranging from 172.20.0.0 to 172.20.255.255. The
subnet mask is 255.255.0.0. The shorthand notation is: 172.20.0.1/16 since the subnet mask 255.255.0.0 contains 16 ones
then 16 zeros when it is converted to binary.
The first address 172.20.0.0 is reserved for the Network ID. The last address 172.20.255.255 is reserved for the broadcast
address. There are 65534 valid IP addresses available to be assigned to hosts on the network.
Ethernet Subnet Mask: 255.255.0.0
Network ID: 172.20.0.0
Broadcast Address: 172.20.255.255
Viper #1: 172.20.0.1/16
Viper #2: 172.20.0.2/16
Viper #3: 172.20.0.3/16
…
Viper #105: 172.20.0.105/16
PLC/RTU #1: 172.20.255.1/16
PLC/RTU #2: 172.20.255.2/16
PLC/RTU #3: 172.20.255. 3/16
…
PLC/RTU #250: 172.20.255.250/16
Computer #1: 172.20.138.1/16
…
Computer #500: 172.20.255.254/16