Comtech EF Data LPOD Series User manual

LPOD
Outdoor Amplifier / Block Up Converter (BUC)
Installation and Operation Manual
Part No. MN-LPOD
Revision15
IMPORTANT NOTE: The information contained in this document supersedes all previously published
information regarding this product. Product specifications are subject to change without prior notice.

Low Power Outdoor (LPOD) Amplifier/Block Up Converter (BUC)
Revision 15
MN-LPOD
Copyright © 2020 Comtech EF Data. All rights reserved. Printed in the USA.
Comtech EF Data, 2114 West 7th Street, Tempe, Arizona 85281 USA, 480.333.2200, FAX: [phone]
Revision History
Rev Date Description
0 – 13 - Various updates. Refer to PLM for details.
14 Mar 2016 Revise per FW Ver 1.5.6 - update OFM in Chapter 4, Config>Amplifier page in Chapter 5, 1:1 Serial
Remote Operation section inAppendixA
15 Oct 2020
- Updated/Revised Sections 1.5.1, 2.2, 3.4.2, 4.5.2.1, 4.5.4.2, 4.5.4.3, 4.5.4.4, 5.4,A.3.1, and C.5
-Added Section 2.2.2
- Revised Figures 1-6, 1-7, 1-8, 1-10, 1-11 through 1-15, 2-11, A-8, and A-9
- Updated formatting to reflect current Comtech EF Data standards.

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Table of Contents TOC-1 MN-LPOD
Table of Contents
PREFACE ...................................................................................................................................................... I
About this Manual........................................................................................................................................i
Related Documents.................................................................................................................................... i
Disclaimer................................................................................................................................................... i
Conventions and References.....................................................................................................................ii
Patents and Trademarks............................................................................................................................ii
Warnings, Cautions, Notes, and References.............................................................................................ii
Examples of Multi-Hazard Notices.............................................................................................................ii
Recommended Standard Designations .....................................................................................................ii
Safety and Compliance..............................................................................................................................iii
Electrical Safety and Compliance .............................................................................................................iii
Installation Guidelines Regarding Power Line Quality..........................................................................iii
Product Support.........................................................................................................................................iv
Comtech EF Data Headquarters...............................................................................................................iv
Warranty Policy ..........................................................................................................................................iv
Limitations of Warranty..............................................................................................................................iv
Exclusive Remedies.................................................................................................................................. v
CHAPTER 1. INTRODUCTION...........................................................................................................1–1
1.1 Overview ......................................................................................................................................1–1
1.2 Functional Description ...............................................................................................................1–2
1.3 Features .......................................................................................................................................1–2
1.3.1 The Solid-State Advantage .......................................................................................................1–2
1.3.2 Enhanced Standard Features...................................................................................................1–2
1.3.3 Built-in Redundancy Controller.................................................................................................1–2
1.3.4 “Smart BUC” Functionality........................................................................................................1–3
1.3.5 Data Logging Capability............................................................................................................1–3
1.3.6 Optional Internal 10 MHz Reference ........................................................................................1–3
1.3.7 Optional LNB Support...............................................................................................................1–3
1.4 Theory of Operation....................................................................................................................1–4
1.4.1 SSPA Block Diagrams...............................................................................................................1–4
1.4.2 SSPA Module ............................................................................................................................1–6
1.4.3 Cooling System.........................................................................................................................1–6
1.4.4 Power Supply............................................................................................................................1–6
1.4.5 LNB Operation..........................................................................................................................1–6
1.4.6 Block Up Converter (BUC) Input...............................................................................................1–7
1.4.7 Monitor and Control (M&C).......................................................................................................1–7
1.5 Summary of Specifications........................................................................................................1–8
1.5.1 Characteristics..........................................................................................................................1–8
1.5.2 Optional Internal Reference....................................................................................................1–10
1.5.3 Optional LNB Bias / Reference...............................................................................................1–10
1.5.4 Environmental.........................................................................................................................1–10
1.5.5 Physical................................................................................................................................... 1–11
1.6 Dimensional Envelopes............................................................................................................1–13
1.6.1 LPOD PS 1 Dimensional Envelopes.......................................................................................1–14
1.6.2 LPOD PS 1.5 Dimensional Envelopes....................................................................................1–20
1.6.3 LPOD PS 2 Dimensional Envelopes.......................................................................................1–24
CHAPTER 2. SYSTEM CONNECTORS, INSTALLATION, AND STARTUP.....................................2–1
2.1 Overview ......................................................................................................................................2–1
2.2 Cable Sealing and Wrapping......................................................................................................2–2
2.2.1 Water Tight Sealing...................................................................................................................2–2

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2.2.1.1 Customer Cable Water Tight Sealing............................................................................2–2
2.2.2 Cable Wrapping ........................................................................................................................2–3
2.3 Connectors and Cables..............................................................................................................2–4
2.3.1 Connector ‘J1 | LBAND IN’ or ‘J1 | Tx IN’ .................................................................................2–5
2.3.2 Connector ‘J2 | RF OUT’...........................................................................................................2–5
2.3.3 Connector ‘J3 | POWER IN’AC Power Mains..........................................................................2–6
2.3.3.1 PS 1, PS 1.5 ‘J3 | POWER IN’AC Power Main ............................................................2–6
2.3.3.2 PS 2 ‘J3 | POWER IN’AC Power Main.........................................................................2–7
2.3.4 Connector ‘J3 | POWER IN’ DC Power Mains..........................................................................2–8
2.3.4.1 PS 1 ‘J3 | POWER IN’ DC Power Main.........................................................................2–8
2.3.4.2 PS 1.5 ‘J3 | POWER IN’ DC Power Main......................................................................2–9
2.3.4.3 PS 2 ‘J3 | POWER IN’ DC Power Main.........................................................................2–9
2.3.4.4 PS 2 ‘J3 | POWER IN’ 48 VDC Power Main Option....................................................2–10
2.3.5 Connector ‘J6 | COM1’ (Remote Communications and Discrete Control Port)...................... 2–11
2.3.5.1 Circular Connectors.....................................................................................................2–12
2.3.6 Connector ‘J9 | OUTPUT SAMPLE’ (PS 2 Only)....................................................................2–13
2.3.7 Connectors ‘J10 | MODEM Rx’ and ‘J11 | LNB’ (Optional Interfaces)....................................2–13
2.3.8 Ground Connector ..................................................................................................................2–13
2.4 LPOD Standalone (Single-Thread) Installations ....................................................................2–14
2.4.1 Manpower Requirements........................................................................................................2–14
2.4.2 Typical Required Installation Tools .........................................................................................2–14
2.4.3 Pole-Mounted Installations .....................................................................................................2–14
2.4.3.1 Universal Pole Mounting Kit (PL/12319-1)..................................................................2–15
2.4.3.2 Single Unit Mounting Kit (KT-0000095) for PS 1, PS 1.5............................................2–18
2.4.3.3 Single Unit Mounting Kit (KT-0000125) for PS 2.........................................................2–19
2.4.4 Spar-Mounted Installations for PS 1, PS 1.5 ..........................................................................2–20
2.4.5 Shelf-Mounted Single Unit Kit (KT-0020524) for PS 2............................................................2–22
2.5 LPOD Power Setting .................................................................................................................2–23
CHAPTER 3. FIRMWARE UPDATE ...................................................................................................3–1
3.1 Firmware Update Overview........................................................................................................3–1
3.1.1 Firmware Update Procedure Summary....................................................................................3–1
3.1.2 About Firmware Numbers, File Versions, and Formats............................................................3–2
3.2 Prepare for the Firmware Download .........................................................................................3–3
3.2.1 Required User-supplied Items..................................................................................................3–3
3.2.1.1 LPOD Connections........................................................................................................3–3
3.2.2 Configure the Terminal Emulator Program ...............................................................................3–5
3.2.3 Get the LPOD Management IPAddress and Firmware Information ........................................3–5
3.2.3.1 Use the HTTP Interface to Find the Firmware Information...........................................3–5
3.2.3.2 Use the Serial Interface to Find the Firmware Information ...........................................3–6
3.2.4 Make a Temporary Folder (Subdirectory) on the User PC .......................................................3–7
3.2.4.1 Use Windows Desktop to Make a Folder......................................................................3–7
3.2.4.2 Use Windows Explorer to Make a Folder......................................................................3–8
3.2.4.3 Use the Run and Browse Windows to Make a Folder ..................................................3–8
3.2.4.4 Use Windows Command-line or Command Prompt to Make a Folder.........................3–9
3.3 Download and Extract the Firmware Update Files ..................................................................3–9
3.3.1.1 Use Windows Desktop to View Folder Contents......................................................... 3–11
3.3.1.2 Use Windows Command-line to View Folder Contents .............................................. 3–11
3.4 Upload the Firmware Files and Update the LPOD Unit.........................................................3–12
3.4.1 Important Considerations........................................................................................................3–12
3.4.2 Steps to FTP Upload the Firmware Files................................................................................3–12
3.4.3 “CReflash” Utility Upload (Optional)........................................................................................3–13
3.4.4 LPOD Unit Firmware Updates................................................................................................3–14
CHAPTER 4. ETHERNET INTERFACE OPERATION.......................................................................4–1

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4.1 Overview ......................................................................................................................................4–1
4.1.1 Prerequisites.............................................................................................................................4–1
4.2 SNMP Interface............................................................................................................................4–2
4.2.1 MIB Files...................................................................................................................................4–2
4.2.1.1 CEFD Root MIB File......................................................................................................4–2
4.2.1.2 LPOD MIB File ..............................................................................................................4–2
4.2.1.3 LPOD Traps MIB File ....................................................................................................4–2
4.2.2 SNMP Community Strings ........................................................................................................4–3
4.2.3 SNMP Traps..............................................................................................................................4–3
4.3 Telnet Interface............................................................................................................................4–6
4.3.1 Using HyperTerminal for Telnet Remote Control Operation .....................................................4–7
4.3.1.1 Configure HyperTerminal for Telnet Remote Control Operation ...................................4–8
4.4 HTTP (Web Server) Interface......................................................................................................4–9
4.4.1 Enable the HTTP Interface .......................................................................................................4–9
4.4.2 HTTP Interface User Login..................................................................................................... 4–11
4.4.3 HTTP Interface Features ........................................................................................................4–12
4.4.3.1 Menu Tree...................................................................................................................4–12
4.4.3.2 Page Navigation..........................................................................................................4–12
4.4.3.3 Page Sections.............................................................................................................4–12
4.4.3.4 Action Buttons.............................................................................................................4–12
4.4.3.5 Drop-down Lists ..........................................................................................................4–13
4.4.3.6 Text or Data Entry........................................................................................................4–13
4.5 HTTP Interface Page Examples and Descriptions.................................................................4–14
4.5.1 Home Pages...........................................................................................................................4–14
4.5.1.1 Home | Home..............................................................................................................4–14
4.5.1.2 Home | Contact ...........................................................................................................4–15
4.5.1.3 Home | Support...........................................................................................................4–16
4.5.2 Admin (Administration) Pages................................................................................................4–17
4.5.2.1 Admin | Access............................................................................................................4–17
4.5.2.2 Admin | SNMP.............................................................................................................4–19
4.5.3 Config Pages ..........................................................................................................................4–20
4.5.3.1 Config | Amplifier.........................................................................................................4–20
4.5.3.2 Config | LNB................................................................................................................4–22
4.5.3.3 Config | Utility ..............................................................................................................4–23
4.5.3.4 Config | Redundancy...................................................................................................4–25
4.5.4 Status Pages...........................................................................................................................4–26
4.5.4.1 Status | Summary........................................................................................................4–26
4.5.4.2 Status | Status .............................................................................................................4–27
4.5.4.3 Status | FETs...............................................................................................................4–28
4.5.4.4 Status | Events ............................................................................................................4–29
4.5.4.5 Status | Statistics .........................................................................................................4–31
4.5.4.6 Status | Trending Graphs.............................................................................................4–32
CHAPTER 5. SERIAL INTERFACE OPERATION .............................................................................5–1
5.1 Overview ......................................................................................................................................5–1
5.2 Key Operational Parameters / Common Commands and Queries.........................................5–1
5.2.1 RF Input Level...........................................................................................................................5–1
5.2.2 Attenuator Control.....................................................................................................................5–1
5.2.3 Mute Control .............................................................................................................................5–2
5.2.4 Faults ........................................................................................................................................5–2
5.2.5 Power Detector.........................................................................................................................5–3
5.2.6 Common Queries......................................................................................................................5–3
5.2.7 End-of-Life Commands/Queries...............................................................................................5–4
5.3 Remote Control Protocol and Structure...................................................................................5–4
5.3.1 EIA-232.....................................................................................................................................5–4

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5.3.2 EIA-485.....................................................................................................................................5–5
5.3.3 Basic Serial Protocol.................................................................................................................5–5
5.3.4 Basic Protocol...........................................................................................................................5–6
5.3.5 Packet Structure........................................................................................................................5–6
5.3.5.1 Start of Packet...............................................................................................................5–7
5.3.5.2 Target Address ..............................................................................................................5–7
5.3.5.3 Address Delimiter..........................................................................................................5–7
5.3.5.4 Instruction Code............................................................................................................5–8
5.3.5.5 Instruction Code Qualifier..............................................................................................5–8
5.3.5.5.1 Controller-to-Target Rules..........................................................................................5–8
5.3.5.5.2 Target-to-Controller Rules..........................................................................................5–8
5.3.5.6 Optional Message Arguments.......................................................................................5–9
5.3.5.7 End of Packet................................................................................................................5–9
5.4 Remote Commands and Queries............................................................................................. 5–11
APPENDIX A. 1:1 REDUNDANCY.......................................................................................................A–1
A.1 LPOD Redundancy Operation Overview ................................................................................. A–1
A.2 1:1 Redundancy Mode............................................................................................................... A–2
A.2.1 Ethernet-based Monitor and Control.........................................................................................A–2
A.2.1.1 1:1 Redundancy System Setup (Using a Single Ethernet Interface)............................A–3
A.2.2 Serial-based Monitor and Control.............................................................................................A–4
A.2.2.1 Applicable Serial-Based Redundancy Commands and Queries ..................................A–7
A.2.3 Troubleshooting Connectivity Issues........................................................................................A–8
A.3 1:1 Redundancy System Cabling and Installation.................................................................. A–9
A.3.1 Cable Sealing and Wrapping....................................................................................................A–9
A.4 1:1 Redundancy System Assembly Kit Examples................................................................ A–12
A.4.1 Common Kit Examples ...........................................................................................................A–13
A.4.1.1 KT-0020827 1:1 Free Standing Unitstrut Kit................................................................A–13
A.4.1.2 KT-0000116 LPOD Rx Splitter / Cable Kit...................................................................A–14
A.4.1.3 KT-0000098 LPOD C-Band Rx Switch Kit ..................................................................A–15
A.4.1.4 PL/7596-1 LPOD Ku-Band Rx Switch Kit ...................................................................A–18
A.4.1.5 KT-0000191 Ku-Band Rx Switch Kit Example, OMT-Mounted, Metric.......................A–21
A.4.2 LPOD PS 1 1:1 Redundancy Kit Examples............................................................................A–24
A.4.2.1 KT-0000104 LPOD PS 1 C-Band 1:1 Redundancy Kit...............................................A–24
A.4.2.2 KT-0000090 LPOD PS 1 C-Band Coax Output 1:1 Redundancy Kit..........................A–27
A.4.2.3 KT-0000089 LPOD PS 1 Ku-Band 1:1 Redundancy Kit .............................................A–30
A.4.2.4 KT-0000170 LPOD PS 1 X-Band 1:1 Redundancy Kit ...............................................A–33
A.4.3 LPOD PS 1.5 1:1 Redundancy Kit Examples.........................................................................A–36
A.4.3.1 KT-0020526 LPOD PS 1.5 C-Band DC Option 1:1 Redundancy Kit..........................A–36
A.4.3.2 KT-0000060 LPOD PS 1.5 Ku-Band 1:1 Redundancy Kit ..........................................A–40
A.4.4 LPOD PS 2 1:1 Redundancy Kit Examples............................................................................A–43
A.4.4.1 KT-0020827 PS 2 C-Band 1:1 Redundancy Free Standing Kit ..................................A–43
A.4.4.2 KT-0000091 LPOD PS 2 C-Band 1:1 Redundancy Kit...............................................A–45
A.4.4.3 KT-0000254 LPOD PS 2 Ku-Band 1:1 Redundancy Kit .............................................A–49
APPENDIX B. CABLE DRAWINGS..................................................................................................... B-1
B.1 Overview ......................................................................................................................................B-1
B.2 Control and Data Cables.............................................................................................................B-2
B.2.1 Serial Interface Cable ................................................................................................................B-3
B.2.2 Ethernet Interface Cable............................................................................................................B-4
B.2.3 19-Pin COMMS Cable (100’).....................................................................................................B-5
B.2.4 19-Pin COMMS Cable (250’).....................................................................................................B-6
B.2.5 Redundant Loop Cable – Rx / Tx ..............................................................................................B-7
B.2.6 Redundant Loop Cable – Tx Only .............................................................................................B-8
B.3 RF Cables..................................................................................................................................... B-9

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B.3.1 RF Cable (Type ‘N’) .................................................................................................................B-10
APPENDIX C. MAINTENANCE............................................................................................................C–1
C.1 Overview ..................................................................................................................................... C–1
C.2 Clean the LPOD PS 1 Heat Sinks.............................................................................................. C–2
C.3 Clean the LPOD PS 1.5 Heat Sinks........................................................................................... C–6
C.4 Clean the LPOD PS 2 Heat Sinks............................................................................................ C–10
C.5 Cable Sealing and Wrapping................................................................................................... C–14

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Table of Contents TOC-6 MN-LPOD
List of Tables
Table 1-1. Low Oscillator (LO) Frequencies..............................................................................................1–7
Table 2-1. ‘J2 | RF OUT’ Interface Type....................................................................................................2–5
Table 2-2. PS 1/PS 1.5 ‘J3 | POWER IN’ Pin Assignments ......................................................................2–6
Table 2-3. PS 2 ‘J3 | POWER IN’ Pin Assignments ..................................................................................2–7
Table 2-4. PS 1 ‘J3 | POWER IN’ Pin Assignments ..................................................................................2–8
Table 2-5. PS 1.5 ‘J3 | POWER IN’ Pin Assignments ...............................................................................2–9
Table 2-6. PS 2 ‘J3 | POWER IN’ Pin Assignments ..................................................................................2–9
Table 2-7. PS 2 ‘J3 | POWER IN’ 48 VDC Pin Assignments...................................................................2–10
Table 2-8. ‘J6 | COM1’ Pin Assignments.................................................................................................2–11
Table A-1. OFM Online-to-Offline Operational Settings Conveyance.......................................................A–6
List of Figures
Figure 1-1. LPOD Outdoor Amplifiers / BUCs...........................................................................................1–1
Figure 1-2. LPOD PS 1 and PS 1.5 Block Diagram..................................................................................1–4
Figure 1-3. LPOD PS 2 Block Diagram.....................................................................................................1–5
Figure 1-4. LPOD PS 1 C-Band Dimensional Envelope (Coax Output).................................................1–14
Figure 1-5. LPOD PS 1 C-Band Dimensional Envelope (Coax Output) – Reduced Height Unit............1–15
Figure 1-6. LPOD PS 1 C-Band Dimensional Envelope.........................................................................1–16
Figure 1-7. LPOD PS 1 X-Band Dimensional Envelope.........................................................................1–17
Figure 1-8. LPOD PS 1 Ku-Band Dimensional Envelope.......................................................................1–18
Figure 1-9. LPOD PS 1 Ku-Band Dimensional Envelope – Reduced Height Unit..................................1–19
Figure 1-10. LPOD PS 1.5 C-Band Dimensional Envelope (DC Option) ...............................................1–20
Figure 1-11. LPOD PS 1.5 C-Band Dimensional Envelope (AC Option)................................................1–21
Figure 1-12. LPOD PS 1.5 X-Band Dimensional Envelope....................................................................1–22
Figure 1-13. LPOD PS 1.5 Ku-Band Dimensional Envelope..................................................................1–23
Figure 1-14. LPOD PS 2 C-Band Dimensional Envelope.......................................................................1–24
Figure 1-15. LPOD PS 2 X-Band Dimensional Envelope.......................................................................1–25
Figure 1-16. LPOD PS 2 Ku-Band Dimensional Envelope.....................................................................1–26
Figure 2-1. Water Tight Cable End Example ............................................................................................2–2
Figure 2-2. PS 1 Connectors.....................................................................................................................2–4
Figure 2-3. PS 1.5 Connectors .................................................................................................................2–4
Figure 2-4. PS 2 Connectors.....................................................................................................................2–4
Figure 2-5. Circular Connector Example ............................................................................................2–12
Figure 2-6. ‘J10 | Modem Rx’ and ‘J11 | LNB’ Connectors .....................................................................2–13
Figure 2-7. Ground Connector Locations................................................................................................2–13
Figure 2-8. Universal Pole Mounting Kit (PL/12319-1) ...........................................................................2–15
Figure 2-9. Universal Pole Mounting Kit – Final Assembly.....................................................................2–17
Figure 2-10. Single Unit Mounting Kit (KT-0000095) for PS 1, PS 1.5...................................................2–18
Figure 2-11. Single Unit Mounting Kit (KT-0000125) for PS 2 ................................................................2–19
Figure 2-12. SSPA Spar Mount Installation Example..............................................................................2–20
Figure 2-13. Spar Mount Installation Kits for PS 1, PS 1.5.....................................................................2–21
Figure 2-14. Shelf Mounted, Single Unit Kit (KT-0020524) for PS 2 ......................................................2–22
Figure 3-1. Standalone or Redundant Serial Connectio ...........................................................................3–3
Figure 3-2. Standalone or Redundant Ethernet Connection.....................................................................3–4
Figure 4-1. Telnet Interface Example – Windows Command-line.............................................................4–6
Figure 4-2. Telnet Interface Example – HyperTerminal.............................................................................4–7
Figure 4-3. Configure HyperTerminal........................................................................................................4–8
Figure 4-4. LPOD HTTP Interface “Splash” Page Example....................................................................4–11
Figure 4-5. LPOD HTTP Interface Menu Tree........................................................................................4–12
Figure 4-6. LPOD ‘Home | Home’ Page (PS .5 Unit Example Shown)...................................................4–14
Figure 4-7. ‘Home | Contact’ Page..........................................................................................................4–15
Figure 4-8. ‘Home | Support’ Page..........................................................................................................4–16

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Figure 4-9. ‘Admin | Access’ Page ..........................................................................................................4–17
Figure 4-10. ‘Admin | SNMP’ Page .........................................................................................................4–19
Figure 4-11. ‘Config | Amplifier’ Page......................................................................................................4–20
Figure 4-12. ‘Config | LNB’ Page ............................................................................................................4–22
Figure 4-13. ‘Config | Utility’ Page...........................................................................................................4–23
Figure 4-14. ‘Config | Redundancy’ Page...............................................................................................4–25
Figure 4-15. ‘Status | Summary’ Page ....................................................................................................4–26
Figure 4-16. ‘Status | Status’ page ..........................................................................................................4–27
Figure 4-17. ‘Status | FETs’ Page............................................................................................................4–28
Figure 4-18. ‘Status | Events’ Page.........................................................................................................4–29
Figure 4-19. ‘Status | Statistics’ Page......................................................................................................4–31
Figure 4-20. ‘Status | Trending Graphs’ Page.........................................................................................4–32
Figure A-1. Ethernet-based M&C using CEFD Kit KT-0000203 ...............................................................A–2
Figure A-2. Serial-based M&C using CEFD Kit KT-0020518....................................................................A–4
Figure A-3. Typical LPOD 1:1 Redundancy System Cabling Schematic................................................A–11
Figure A-4. KT-0020827 1:1 Free Standing Unitstrut Kit....................................................................A–13
Figure A-5. KT-0000116 LPOD Rx Splitter / Cable Kit Example – Exploded and Assembled Isometric
Views...............................................................................................................................................A–14
Figure A-6. KT-0000098 LPOD C-Band Rx Switch Kit Example – Exploded Isometric View.................A–16
Figure A-7. KT-0000098 LPOD C-Band Rx Switch Kit Example – Assembled Isometric View..............A–17
Figure A-8. PL/7596-1 LPOD Ku-Band Rx Switch Kit Example – Exploded Isometric View..................A–19
Figure A-9. PL/7596-1 LPOD Ku-Band Rx Switch Kit – Assembled Isometric View ..............................A–20
Figure A-10. KT-0000191 Ku-Band Rx Switch Kit Example, OMT-Mounted, Metric – Exploded Isometric
View.................................................................................................................................................A–22
Figure A-11. KT-0000191 Ku-Band Rx Switch Kit Example, OMT-Mounted, Metric – Assembled Isometric
View.................................................................................................................................................A–23
Figure A-12. KT-0000104 LPOD PS 1 C-Band 1:1 Redundancy Kit Example – Exploded Isometric ViewA–
25
Figure A-13. KT-0000104 LPOD PS 1 C-Band 1:1 Redundancy Kit Example – Assembled Isometric View
........................................................................................................................................................A–26
Figure A-14. KT-0000090 LPOD PS 1 C-Band Coax Output 1:1 Redundancy Kit Example – Exploded
Isometric View.................................................................................................................................A–28
Figure A-15. KT-0000090 LPOD PS 1 C-Band Coax Output 1:1 Redundancy Kit Example – Assembled
Isometric View.................................................................................................................................A–29
Figure A-16. KT-0000089 LPOD PS 1 Ku-Band 1:1 Redundancy Kit Example – Exploded Isometric View
........................................................................................................................................................A–31
Figure A-17. KT-0000089 LPOD PS 1 Ku-Band 1:1 Redundancy Kit Example – Assembled Isometric View
........................................................................................................................................................A–32
Figure A-18. KT-0000170 LPOD PS 1 X-Band 1:1 Redundancy Kit Example – Exploded Isometric ViewA–
34
Figure A-19. KT-0000170 LPOD PS 1 X-Band 1:1 Redundancy Kit Example – Assembled Isometric View
........................................................................................................................................................A–35
Figure A-20. KT-0020526 LPOD PS 1.5 C-Band DC Option 1:1 Redundancy Kit Example – Exploded
Isometric Views ...............................................................................................................................A–38
Figure A-21. KT-0020526 LPOD PS 1.5 C-Band DC Option 1:1 Redundancy Kit Example – Assembled
Isometric View.................................................................................................................................A–39
Figure A-22. KT-0000060 LPOD PS 1.5 Ku-Band 1:1 Redundancy Kit Example – Exploded Isometric
View.................................................................................................................................................A–41
Figure A-23. KT-0000060 LPOD PS 1.5 Ku-Band 1:1 Redundancy Kit Example – Assembled Isometric
View.................................................................................................................................................A–42
Figure A-24. PS 2 C-Band 1:1 Redundancy Free Standing Kit Example Using KT-0020827 – Assembled
Isometric View.................................................................................................................................A–43
Figure A-25. PS 2 C-Band 1:1 Redundancy Free Standing Kit Example Using KT-0020827 – Assembled
Views...............................................................................................................................................A–44
Figure A-26. KT-0000091 LPOD PS 2 C-Band 1:1 Redundancy Kit Example – Exploded Isometric ViewA–
46

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Figure A-27. KT-0000091 LPOD PS 2 C-Band 1:1 Redundancy Kit Example – Assembled Isometric View
........................................................................................................................................................A–48
Figure A-28. KT-0000254 LPOD PS 2 Ku-Band 1:1 Redundancy Kit Example – Exploded Isometric View
........................................................................................................................................................A–50
Figure A-29. KT-0000254 LPOD PS 2 Ku-Band 1:1 Redundancy Kit Example – Assembled Isometric View
........................................................................................................................................................A–51
Figure B-1. Serial Interface Cable (CEFD P/N CA-0020526, part of KT-0020518).................................. B-3
Figure B-2. Ethernet Interface Cable (CEFD P/N CA-0000352, part of KT-0000203).............................. B-4
Figure B-3. COMMS Cable, 100’ (CEFD P/N CA-0000318)..................................................................... B-5
Figure B-4. COMMS Cable, 250’ (CEFD P/N CA-0000543)..................................................................... B-6
Figure B-5. Redundant Loop Cable – Rx / Tx (CEFD P/N CA-0020657)................................................. B-7
Figure B-6. Redundant Loop Cable –Tx Only (CEFD P/N CA-0020655)................................................. B-8
Figure B-7. 1/4" Heliax Coaxial Cable (CEFD P/N CA/3722-X) ............................................................. B-10
Figure C-1. Comtech EF Data LPOD Outdoor Amplifiers / BUCs ........................................................... C–1
Figure C-2. LPOD HTTP Interface ‘Status |Trending Graphs’ Page –Temperature Graph Example .... C–1
Figure C-3. LPOD PS 1 Shroud Screw Locations ................................................................................... C–3
Figure C-4. Fan Shroud Removal............................................................................................................ C–4
Figure C-5. Fan Power Supply Disconnection......................................................................................... C–4
Figure C-6. LPOD PS 1 Heat Sink Locations .......................................................................................... C–5
Figure C-7. Fan Power Supply Reconnection.......................................................................................... C–5
Figure C-8. LPOD PS 1.5 Shroud Screw Locations ................................................................................ C–7
Figure C-9. Fan Shroud Removal............................................................................................................ C–7
Figure C-10. Fan 1 / Fan 2 Power Supplies Disconnection..................................................................... C–8
Figure C-11. LPOD PS 1.5 Heat Sink Location ....................................................................................... C–8
Figure C-12. Fan 1 / Fan 2 Power Supplies Reconnection ..................................................................... C–9
Figure C-13. LPOD PS 2 Shroud Screw Locations ................................................................................C–11
Figure C-14. Fan Shroud Removal.........................................................................................................C–11
Figure C-15. Fan 1 / Fan 2 Power Supplies Disconnection................................................................... C–12
Figure C-16. LPOD PS 2 Heat Sink Locations ...................................................................................... C–12
Figure C-17. Fan 1 / Fan 2 Power Supplies Reconnection ................................................................... C–13

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Table of Contents TOC-9 MN-LPOD
Acronym List
Acronym Description
First Use
Page Numbe
AO Assignment Operator 5-8
BUC Block Up Converter 1-1
CEFD Comtech EF Data 1-1
DC Direct Current 1-1
EOL End of Life 5-3
FET Field Effect Transistor 4-27
FSK Frequency Shift Keying 1-3
FTP File Transfer Protocol 3-1
GaAs FET GalliumArsenide Field-effect Transistor 1-2
HTTP Hypertext Transfer Protocol 4-1
IF Intermediate Frequency 1-3
IPA IPAddress 4-9
LED Light Emmiting Diode A-8
LNB Low Noise Block Down Converter 1-1
LO Local Oscillator 1-6
LPOD Low Power Outdoor 1-1
LRS Local Remote Status 4-9
M&C Monitor and Control 1-2
MCP Monitor/Control Processor 1-2
MIB Management Information Base 4-1
MTBF Mean Time Between Failures 1-2
NIC Network Interface Controller A-8
NMS Network Management System 4-1
OID Object Identifier 4-2
OS Operating System 3-8
OXCO Oven-controlled Crystal Oscillator 1-3
PC Personal Computer 3-1
QO Query Operator 5-8
RF Radio Frequency 1-1
SMTP Simple Mail Transfer Protocol 4-16
SNG Satellite News Gathering 1-2
SNMP Simple Network Management Protocol 4-1

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Table of Contents TOC-10 MN-LPOD
Acronym Description
First Use
Page Numbe
SSPA Solid State PowerAmplifier 1-2
TWT Traveling Wave Tube 1-1
VSWR Voltage Standing Wave Ratio 1-3
Units of Measurement
Unit / Symbol
Definition
Ω
Ohm
A
Ampere
bps
bits per second
˚C
Celsius (degrees)
Hz
Hertz
kHz
kiloHertz
dB
decibel
dBc
Decibels relative to the carrier
dBm
Decibel-milliwatts
˚F
Fahrenheit (degrees)
Kbps
Kilobit per second
kg
kilogram
ksps
Kilosymbols per second
lbs.
pounds
mA
Milli-amp
Mbps
Megabit per second
MHz
Megahertz
mm
millimeter
ms
millisecond
Msps
Megasymbols per second
mW
milliwatt
in.
inch
Ppm
Packets per minute
Pps
Packets per second
SR
Symbols per second
ųF
100 micro-farads
W
Watt
V
Volt

Low Power Outdoor (LPOD) Amplifier/Block Up Converter (BUC)
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Preface i MN-LPOD
PREFACE
About this Manual
This manual provides installation and operation information for the Comtech EF Data LPOD family of
Outdoor Amplifiers / Block Up Converter (BUCs). This document is intended for the persons responsible
for the operation and maintenance of the LPOD PS 1, PS 1.5, or PS 2.
Related Documents
•Comtech EF Data CLC-10 Handheld Terminal M&C Accessory for LPOD or SPOD PS 1, PS 1.5,
PS 2 User’s Guide (CEFD P/N MN-CLC10)
•Comtech EF Data LPODnet M&C Netbook Accessory for LPOD or SPOD PS 1, PS 1.5, PS 2
Operation Manual (CEFD P/N MN-LPODNET)
•Comtech EF Data RF Control – Transceiver/Amplifier M&C Utility User Guide (CEFD P/N MN-
CRFC)
Disclaimer
Comtech EF Data has reviewed this manual thoroughly in order to provide an easy-to-use guide to this
equipment. All statements, technical information, and recommendations in this manual and in any guides
or related documents are believed reliable, but the accuracy and completeness thereof are not
guaranteed or warranted, and they are not intended to be, nor should they be understood to be,
representations or warranties concerning the products described. Further, Comtech EF Data reserves the
right to make changes in the specifications of the products described in this manual at any time without
notice and without obligation to notify any person of such changes.
If there are any questions regarding this equipment or the information in this manual, please contact
Comtech EF Data Product Support.

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Preface ii MN-LPOD
Conventions and References
Patents and Trademarks
See all of Comtech EF Data's Patents and Patents Pending at http://patents.comtechefdata.com.
Comtech EF Data acknowledges that all trademarks are the property of the trademark owners.
Warnings, Cautions, Notes, and References
A WARNING indicates a potentially hazardous situation that, if not avoided,
could result in death or serious injury.
A CAUTION indicates a hazardous situation that, if not avoided, may result in
minor or moderate injury. CAUTION may also be used to indicate other unsafe
practices or risks of property damage.
A NOTE: gives you important information about a task or the equipment.
A REFERENCE directs you to important operational information or details
furnished elsewhere, either in the manual or in adjunct Comtech EF Data
publications.
Examples of Multi-Hazard Notices
Recommended Standard Designations
Electronic Industries Association (EIA) designations supersede Recommended Standard (RS)
designations. Reference to the old RS designations may appear where it might concern actual text (e.g.,
RS-232) displayed on the product panels and on screens or pages in the Serial Remote or HTTP (Web
Server) Interfaces. All other references in the manual refer to EIA designations.

Low Power Outdoor (LPOD) Amplifier/Block Up Converter (BUC)
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Preface iii MN-LPOD
Safety and Compliance
CAUTION
It is important that you review and understand the Safety and Compliance information
that follows.
Electrical Safety and Compliance
CAUTION
NEUTRAL FUSING – DOUBLE POLE/NEUTRAL FUSING IS USED ON THE PRIME POWER
SUPPLY INPUT.
This equipment has been designed to minimize exposure of personnel to hazards. For further information,
contact Comtech EF Data Product Support. The operators and technicians must:
•Know how to work around, with, and on high voltage equipment.
•Exercise every precaution to ensure personnel safety.
•Exercise extreme care when working near high voltages.
•Be familiar with the warnings presented in this manual.
Installation Guidelines Regarding Power Line Quality
Comtech EF Data has become familiar with the varying quality of the AC power grid
around the world. Observing the following installation guidelines should help ensure a
reliable
installation.
•Surge suppression – High voltage surges can cause failure of the power supply. These surges
are typically caused by circuit switching on the main AC power grid, erratic generator operation,
and also by lightning strikes. While the LPOD does have built in surge suppression, if the unit is
to be installed in a location with questionable power grid quality, Comtech EF Data recommends
installation of additional power conditioning/surge suppression at the power junction box.
•Grounding – The LPOD provides a grounding terminal. This is provided to allow you to ground
the LPOD to the antenna’s grounding network. All components installed at the antenna should be
grounded to a common grounding point at the antenna.
•Electrical welding – If welding needs to take place at the antenna, disconnect all cables from the
LPOD except for the ground wire. Cap all RF connections with terminations. This will prevent
damage to the input/output circuitry of the LPOD.
•Lightning – Lightning strikes on or around the antenna will generate extremely high voltages on
all cables connected to the LPOD. Depending on the severity of the strike, the LPOD’s internal
surge protection combined with the recommended external suppression may protect the LPOD’s
power supply. However, if the installation will be in an area with a high probability of lightning
strikes, Comtech EF Data recommends the installation of surge suppression on the RF and IF
cables. One source of these suppressors is PolyPhaser (www.polyphaser.com).

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Preface iv MN-LPOD
Product Support
For all product support, please call:
+1.240.243.1880
+1.866.472.3963 (toll free USA)
Comtech EF Data Headquarters
http://www.comtechefdata.com
Comtech EF Data Corp.
2114 West 7th Street
Tempe, Arizona USA 85281
+1.480.333.2200
Warranty Policy
Comtech EF Data products are warranted against defects in material and workmanship for a specific
period from the date of shipment, and this period varies by product. In most cases, the warranty period is
two years. During the warranty period, Comtech EF Data will, at its option, repair or replace products that
prove to be defective. Repairs are warranted for the remainder of the original warranty or a 90 day
extended warranty, whichever is longer. Contact Comtech EF Data for the warranty period specific to the
product purchased.
For equipment under warranty, the owner is responsible for freight to Comtech EF Data and all related
customs, taxes, tariffs, insurance, etc. Comtech EF Data is responsible for the freight charges only for
return of the equipment from the factory to the owner. Comtech EF Data will return the equipment by the
same method (i.e., Air, Express, Surface) as the equipment was sent to Comtech EF Data.
All equipment returned for warranty repair must have a valid RMA number issued prior to return and be
marked clearly on the return packaging. Comtech EF Data strongly recommends all equipment be
returned in its original packaging.
Comtech EF Data Corporation’s obligations under this warranty are limited to repair or replacement of
failed parts, and the return shipment to the buyer of the repaired or replaced parts.
Limitations of Warranty
The warranty does not apply to any part of a product that has been installed, altered, repaired, or misused
in any way that, in the opinion of Comtech EF Data Corporation, would affect the reliability or detracts
from the performance of any part of the product, or is damaged as the result of use in a way or with
equipment that had not been previously approved by Comtech EF Data Corporation.
The warranty does not apply to any product or parts thereof where the serial number or the serial number
of any of its parts has been altered, defaced, or removed.
The warranty does not cover damage or loss incurred in transportation of the product. The warranty does
not cover replacement or repair necessitated by loss or damage from any cause beyond the control of

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Preface v MN-LPOD
Comtech EF Data Corporation, such as lightning or other natural and weather related events or wartime
environments.
The warranty does not cover any labor involved in the removal and or reinstallation of warranted
equipment or parts on site, or any labor required to diagnose the necessity for repair or replacement.
The warranty excludes any responsibility by Comtech EF Data Corporation for incidental or consequential
damages arising from the use of the equipment or products, or for any inability to use them either
separate from or in combination with any other equipment or products.
A fixed charge established for each product will be imposed for all equipment returned for warranty repair
where Comtech EF Data Corporation cannot identify the cause of the reported failure.
Exclusive Remedies
Comtech EF Data Corporation’s warranty, as stated is in lieu of all other warranties, expressed, implied,
or statutory, including those of merchantability and fitness for a particular purpose. The buyer shall pass
on to any purchaser, lessee, or other user of Comtech EF Data Corporation’s products, the
aforementioned warranty, and shall indemnify and hold harmless Comtech EF Data Corporation from any
claims or liability of such purchaser, lessee, or user based upon allegations that the buyer, its agents, or
employees have made additional warranties or representations as to product preference or use.
The remedies provided herein are the buyer’s sole and exclusive remedies. Comtech EF Data shall not
be liable for any direct, indirect, special, incidental, or consequential damages, whether based on
contract, tort, or any other legal theory.

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Low Power Outdoor (LPOD) Amplifier/Block Up Converter (BUC)
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Introduction 1–1 MN-LPOD
Chapter 1. INTRODUCTION
1.1 Overview
Comtech EF Data (CEFD)s Low Power Outdoor (LPOD) family of Outdoor Amplifiers / Block Up
Converters (BUCs) – referred to collectively throughout this manual as the LPOD – deliver their
rated power, guaranteed, to the transmit waveguide flange at the 1 dB compression point. The
LPOD provides a cost effective, more reliable replacement for Traveling Wave Tube (TWT)
amplifiers in satellite communications.
CEFD’s extensive experience in the design of outdoor RF transceivers led to the LPOD family’s
efficient thermal and mechanical package. Recognizing the evolution of L-Band IF systems, the
LPOD is designed to eliminate the traditional requirement for the modem to supply a direct
current (DC) power source and a 10 MHz reference to the BUCs and Low-noise Block (LNB)s.
Figure 1-1. LPOD Outdoor Amplifiers / BUCs

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Introduction 1–2 MN-LPOD
1.2 Functional Description
The compact size and weight of the LPOD lends itself to any installation with limited available
mounting space. These include ship-borne antenna systems, small “flyaway” systems, and
Satellite News Gathering (SNG) installations. The addition of the optional internal reference and
LNB bias T facilitates multi-carrier and redundant operations required of small-to medium-sized
hub installations.
As shown in Figure 1-1, CEFD’s LPOD is available in three models:
•PS 1
•PS 1.5
•PS 2
Each LPOD consists of a CEFD Solid State Power Amplifier (SSPA) module with the Monitor and
Control Processor (MCP), a power supply, and a fan assembly. The amplifier features a CEFD
low loss combining technique and MCP-based temperature-versus-gain compensation.
The PS 1 and PS 1.5 models are always configured as a BUC/SSPA (L-Band in, RF out) with
available power levels to 100 W. The PS 2 version can be configured as an integrated BUC/SSPA
or solely as an SSPA (RF in, RF out) at power levels to 250 W.
1.3 Features
1.3.1 The Solid-State Advantage
The LPOD is constructed with highly reliable gallium arsenide field-effect transistors (GaAs
FETs). With third-order intermodulation products that are 4 to 6 dB better than TWT ratings, the
CEFD unit replaces TWTs with saturated power levels of up to twice the LPOD’s rated output.
The LPODs also provide mean time between failures (MTBF) that is 4 to 5 times greater than the
typical TWT MTBF.
1.3.2 Enhanced Standard Features
The LPOD comes equipped with useful features that other manufacturers offer only as options.
Included in the base price are temperature compensation, sample ports (on the PS 2 only), power
monitor, power factor corrected supply, and full remote monitor and control (M&C) capabilities
(including Ethernet and serial).
1.3.3 Built-in Redundancy Controller
The LPOD has the ability to function as a 1:1 (one backup for one primary) redundant controller in a
redundant mode without the use of an external device. The optional redundancy configuration is
implemented by attaching a ganged waveguide/coax transfer switch(es) to the input and output
connectors of the amplifiers, using a combination coaxial cable and waveguide kit.
When the backup LPOD is commanded into redundant mode, it monitors the online LPOD for
faults and status, and automatically maintains a configuration based on the online unit.
Afaulted online unit may be disconnected and replaced without affecting the online power amplifier.