Dataradio ViPR User manual

V
Vi iP PR R™ ™
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Na ar rr ro ow wb ba an nd d I IP P M Mo od de em m/ /R Ro ou ut te er r
User Manual
PN 001-5008-000 Rev 5
Revised July 2009

REVISION HISTORY
REV DATE REVISION DETAILS
0 Jan 11, 2008 Initial Release as 001-5008-000.
1 May 2008 Update Dual Port ViPR information.
2 September 2008
Added information about SNMP.
Updated Firmware Upgrade instructions.
3 December 2008
Added information about TCP Client Server Mode.
Added information about Saving/Restoring User
Configuration files.
4 April 2009
Added information about V1.5 ViPR code release.
Added information about TCP Proxy Feature.
Added note to RF Acknowledgment section.
Corrected ViPR Power Cable Part in Accessory Table.
Added specifications and part number for 900 MHz ViPR.
Updated RF Exposure Compliance requirements.
Added section 2.10, Choosing an IP Addressing Scheme
5 July 2009
Added information about V1.6 ViPR 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

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 ViPR are used in a normal
manner with a well-constructed network. ViPR 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 ViPR, or for the failure of ViPR to transmit or receive such data.
COPYRIGHT NOTICE
© Copyright 2007 CalAmp.
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.
RF EXPOSURE COMPLIANCE REQUIREMENTS
The ViPR radio is intended for use in the Industrial Monitoring and Control and
SCADA markets. The ViPR 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
5 dBi 10 dBi 15 dBi
Min Safety Distance
(VHF @ max Power) 123cm 218.8cm 389cm
Min Safety Distance
(UHF @ max Power) 105.7cm 188cm 334.4cm
Min Safety Distance
(900 MHz @ max power) 63.8cm 115 cm 201.7 cm
Note: 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 ViPR radio 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.
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. Recommended
safety guidelines for the human exposure to radio frequency electromagnetic energy are
contained in the Canadian Safety Code 6 (available from Health Canada) and the Federal
Communications Commission (FCC) Bulletin 65.
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.
RF Exposure

TABLE OF CONTENTS
1VIPR OVERVIEW.......................................................................................................................................................8
1.1General Description............................................................................................................................................8
1.2Operational Characteristics...............................................................................................................................8
1.3Physical Description ...........................................................................................................................................9
1.3.1Front Panel....................................................................................................................................................9
1.3.2LED Panel...................................................................................................................................................10
1.3.3Ethernet LAN Port......................................................................................................................................10
1.3.4SETUP and COM Ports ..............................................................................................................................11
1.3.5Power Connector ........................................................................................................................................11
1.3.6Antenna Connector .....................................................................................................................................12
1.3.7Chassis Dimensions ....................................................................................................................................12
1.4Part Numbers and Availability........................................................................................................................12
1.4.1ViPR Radio.................................................................................................................................................12
1.4.2Accessories and Options.............................................................................................................................12
1.5Product Warranty ............................................................................................................................................12
1.6RMA Request....................................................................................................................................................12
1.7Documentation and Downloads.......................................................................................................................12
2SYSTEM ARCHITECTURE AND NETWORK PLANNING.................................................................................12
2.1Single Coverage Area.......................................................................................................................................12
2.2Master/Remote..................................................................................................................................................12
2.3Point-to-Point....................................................................................................................................................12
2.3.1Point-to-Multipoint .....................................................................................................................................12
2.3.2Report by Exception ...................................................................................................................................12
2.4Extending the Coverage Area with a Relay Point..........................................................................................12
2.4.1Understanding RF Path Requirements........................................................................................................12
2.5Site Selection and Site Survey..........................................................................................................................12
2.5.1Site Selection ..............................................................................................................................................12
2.5.2Site Survey..................................................................................................................................................12
2.6Selecting Antenna and Feedline.......................................................................................................................12
2.6.1Antenna Gain ..............................................................................................................................................12
2.6.2Omni Directional Antenna..........................................................................................................................12
2.6.3Yagi Antenna ..............................................................................................................................................12
2.6.4Vertical Dipoles ..........................................................................................................................................12
2.6.5Feedline ......................................................................................................................................................12
2.6.6RF Exposure Compliance Requirements ....................................................................................................12
2.7Terrain and Signal Strength............................................................................................................................12
2.8Radio Interference............................................................................................................................................12
2.9IP Forwarding Modes.......................................................................................................................................12
2.9.1Bridge Mode ...............................................................................................................................................12
2.9.2Router Mode ...............................................................................................................................................12
2.10Choosing an IP Addressing Scheme................................................................................................................12
2.10.1Bridge Mode ...............................................................................................................................................12
2.10.2Router Mode ...............................................................................................................................................12
3DATARADIO VIPR QUICK START........................................................................................................................12
3.1Setup and Configuration..................................................................................................................................12
3.2Install the Antenna ...........................................................................................................................................12

3.3PC LAN Setup...................................................................................................................................................12
3.3.1Front Panel Connections.............................................................................................................................12
3.4Measure and Connect Primary Power............................................................................................................12
3.5Connect ViPR to Programming PC ................................................................................................................12
3.5.1Initial Installation Login .............................................................................................................................12
3.6Configure Your ViPR Using the Setup Wizard .............................................................................................12
3.7Check For Normal Operation..........................................................................................................................12
4VIPR WEB MANAGEMENT...................................................................................................................................12
4.1Navigating the Network Management System...............................................................................................12
4.2Main Menu........................................................................................................................................................12
4.2.1Network Management System Commands.................................................................................................12
5UNIT STATUS...........................................................................................................................................................12
5.1Unit Identification and Status..........................................................................................................................12
5.2Diagnostics.........................................................................................................................................................12
5.2.1Local Diagnostics .......................................................................................................................................12
5.2.2Online Diagnostics......................................................................................................................................12
6SETUP (BASIC)........................................................................................................................................................12
6.1General Setup....................................................................................................................................................12
6.2IP Settings..........................................................................................................................................................12
6.2.1Ethernet Interface........................................................................................................................................12
6.2.2RF Interface ................................................................................................................................................12
6.2.3Default Gateway .........................................................................................................................................12
6.3Channel Table...................................................................................................................................................12
6.4Serial Ports Setup .............................................................................................................................................12
6.4.1Basic Settings..............................................................................................................................................12
6.4.2IP Gateway Service.....................................................................................................................................12
6.4.3IP Gateway Transport .................................................................................................................................12
6.4.4RTS/CTS Mode Settings ............................................................................................................................12
7SETUP (ADVANCED)..............................................................................................................................................12
7.1RF Optimizations..............................................................................................................................................12
7.1.1MAC Advanced Settings ............................................................................................................................12
7.1.2Carrier Sense Level Threshold....................................................................................................................12
7.1.3Listen Before Transmit ...............................................................................................................................12
7.2IP Services.........................................................................................................................................................12
7.2.1SNMP .........................................................................................................................................................12
7.2.2NAT Overview ...........................................................................................................................................12
7.2.3NAT on ViPR .............................................................................................................................................12
7.2.4Ethernet Interface Private ...........................................................................................................................12
7.2.5RF Interface Private....................................................................................................................................12
7.2.6User NAT Entries .......................................................................................................................................12
7.2.7NAT Port Forwarding.................................................................................................................................12
7.3IP Addressing....................................................................................................................................................12
7.3.1Broadcast Mode ..........................................................................................................................................12
7.3.2Multicast Mode...........................................................................................................................................12
7.4IP Optimization.................................................................................................................................................12
7.5IP Routing (Table/Entries)...............................................................................................................................12
7.6Time Source.......................................................................................................................................................12
7.6.1SNTP ..........................................................................................................................................................12
7.6.2Time Zone...................................................................................................................................................12

7.7Alarm Reporting...............................................................................................................................................12
7.7.1Forward Power Alarm & Notification ........................................................................................................12
7.7.2Reverse Power Alarm & Notification.........................................................................................................12
7.7.3PA Power Alarm & Notification.................................................................................................................12
7.8User Settings......................................................................................................................................................12
8SECURITY.................................................................................................................................................................12
8.1User ID and Password......................................................................................................................................12
8.2Encryption.........................................................................................................................................................12
9STATISTICS..............................................................................................................................................................12
9.1Ethernet (LAN).................................................................................................................................................12
9.2Serial..................................................................................................................................................................12
9.3RF.......................................................................................................................................................................12
9.4Airlink Error Detection....................................................................................................................................12
10MAINTENANCE...................................................................................................................................................12
10.1Ping Test............................................................................................................................................................12
10.2Unit Configuration Control.............................................................................................................................12
10.2.1User Configuration Settings........................................................................................................................12
10.3Package Control................................................................................................................................................12
10.4Net Tests............................................................................................................................................................12
10.4.1Net Test Setup.............................................................................................................................................12
10.4.2Net Test Results..........................................................................................................................................12
10.5RF Tests.............................................................................................................................................................12
10.6Feature Options ................................................................................................................................................12
11NEIGHBOR MANAGEMENT.............................................................................................................................12
11.1User Interface....................................................................................................................................................12
11.2Neighbor Discovery (Modes)............................................................................................................................12
11.2.1Manual-SCAN ............................................................................................................................................12
11.2.2Auto-SCAN ................................................................................................................................................12
11.2.3Disabled ......................................................................................................................................................12
11.3Local Status.......................................................................................................................................................12
11.3.1Neighbor Discovery States .........................................................................................................................12
11.3.2Neighboring ViPRs Found..........................................................................................................................12
11.3.3Discovery Duration.....................................................................................................................................12
11.4Discovered ViPR Neighbors.............................................................................................................................12
11.4.1Information on Neighboring ViPRs............................................................................................................12
11.4.2Neighbor Table Entry Type ........................................................................................................................12
11.4.3Route to Neighboring ViPRs ......................................................................................................................12
11.5Control Operations...........................................................................................................................................12
11.6Primary and Backup Route Selection.............................................................................................................12
11.7Network Status..................................................................................................................................................12
11.8Maintenance......................................................................................................................................................12
11.9Recommended Neighbor Discovery Modes of Operations............................................................................12
12NETWORK OPTIMIZATION ..............................................................................................................................12
12.1Maximizing TCP/IP Throughput....................................................................................................................12
12.2Maximizing Throughput with a Weak RF Link ............................................................................................12

12.2.1Use Router Mode with RF Acknowledgements Enabled............................................................................12
12.2.2Reduce RF Network Bit Rate .....................................................................................................................12
12.2.3Increase OIP and MAC Retries Limit.........................................................................................................12
13UPGRADING YOUR FIRMWARE......................................................................................................................12
13.1Software Release History .................................................................................................................................12
13.2Upgrade Modem Firmware Procedure...........................................................................................................12
13.3Upgrade Radio Firmware................................................................................................................................12
13.4Verify File Integrity..........................................................................................................................................12
VIPR SPECIFICATIONS.................................................................................................................................................12
PRODUCT WARRANTY ..................................................................................................................................................12
DEFINITIONS..................................................................................................................................................................12

001-5008-000 rev5_2.doc Page 8
1VIPR OVERVIEW
This document provides information required for the operation and verification of the
Dataradio ViPR Narrowband IP Modem/Router. The information in this manual makes the
assumption the user’s PC has an NIC (Network Interface Card) with TCP/IP implemented.
Setup requires the knowledge and authorization to modify the TCP/IP settings for the NIC.
Changing or installing new IP addresses in a network can cause serious network problems.
If you have any questions or concerns, contact the Network Administrator for your system.
1.1 GENERAL DESCRIPTION
ViPR provides any IP-enabled device with connectivity to transmit narrowband data. This
DSP-based radio was designed for SCADA, telemetry and industrial applications in the 136-
174 MHz, 215-240 MHz VHF, 406.1-512 MHz UHF, and 928-960 MHz frequency ranges.
ViPR supports serial and Ethernet/IP Remote Terminal Units (RTU) and programmable logic
controllers (PLC). It is standard IEEE 802.3 compliant. ViPR 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
The ViPR product has the following operational characteristics:
Frequency range of 136-174 MHz, 215-240 MHz, 406.1-470 MHz, 450-512 MHz, or
928-960 MHz.
User-selectable data rates
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
Wide input power range of 10 to 30 volts DC
AES 128-bit data encryption (Applies to Serial and IP connections)
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
Industrial operating temperature range of -30 to +60 C
Rugged die-cast aluminum and steel case

001-5008-000 rev5_2.doc Page 9
These features provide system benefits that give users:
Rugged Packaging. ViPR is housed in a compact and rugged cast aluminum case. Built
for industrial applications in a variety of environments, ViPR operates over an extended
temperature range and provides worry-free operation in the roughest environments.
Simple Installation. Basic installation typically utilizes an omni-directional antenna at the
master station or Relay Point and a directional antenna at each remote site not a Relay
Point. See Section 2 for information on Site and Antenna Selection. For basic service, just
hook up an antenna, connect your Ethernet LAN to the ViPR’s LAN port, apply primary
power, check and set a few operating parameters and you are done.
Flexible Management. Configuration, commissioning, maintenance and troubleshooting
can be done locally or remotely. There are no physical switches or adjustments; all
operating parameters are set via a web browser. The Dual-Port ViPR provides a receive
antenna connector allowing for unique customer applications requiring additional receive
filtering, external PA(s), and other options.
Long Range. Narrowband configurations allow better coverage over harsh terrain.
1.3 PHYSICAL DESCRIPTION
ViPR 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.
The ViPR is designed for easy installation and configuration; the ViPR features no external or
internal switches or adjustments. All operating parameters are set via an internal web
browser.
1.3.1 Front Panel
Figure 1.1 ViPR Front Panel (Dual-port model shown)

001-5008-000 rev5_2.doc Page 10
As shown in Figure 1.1, 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
For Dual-port ViPR connections, see Section 1.3.6.
1.3.2 LED Panel
The LED panel has five Tri-Color LEDs. The functionality of each LED is shown in Table 1.1.
Table 1.1 ViPR LED Functionality
LED Color Definition
Power Green
Red
ViPR ready, normal operations
ViPR hardware fault
Status Green
Blinking Green
Red
Amber (Solid or Blinking)
ViPR no faults, normal operations
ViPR scanning for neighbors
ViPR has a fault condition, check unit status
ViPR detects high background noise
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 Ethernet LAN Port
The Ethernet LAN port is an RJ-45 receptacle with a 10 BaseT Ethernet connection and
Auto-MDIX feature. Table 1.2 shows pin-out descriptions for the RJ-45 port.
Table 1.2 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
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.

001-5008-000 rev5_2.doc Page 11
1.3.4 SETUP and COM Ports
The SETUP and COM serial connections are DE-9F RS-232 ports.
Serial port considerations:
•ViPR radio modem SETUP and COM ports are Data Communication Equipment (DCE)
devices
•In general, equipment connected to the ViPR’s SETUP / COM serial port is Data
Terminal Equipment (DTE) and a straight-through cable is recommended.
Note: If a DCE device is connected to the ViPR SETUP / COM port, a null modem
cable/adapter is required.
The pin-out for the SETUP and COM ports are shown in Table 1.3.
Table 1.3 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
The DCD, DTR, RTS and CTS control lines are programmable. Refer to section 6.4 for serial
port control line configurations.
1.3.5 Power Connector
The ViPR is supplied with a right-angle power connector (10-30 VDC). Table 1.4 shows the
pin-out of the power connector.
Table 1.4 Pin-out of the power connector
Contact #
(Left to Right) Color Description
4 Fan Power Output (5V)
3 Black Ground
2 Red Positive (10-30) VDC
1 White Enable
Note: The White Enable line must be tied to the red positive lead of the connector for the
ViPR to function.

001-5008-000 rev5_2.doc Page 12
1.3.6 Antenna Connector
The standard ViPR has a 50-ohm TNC female antenna connector. This connection functions
for both transmit and receive.
The Dual-Port ViPR has 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 allows for unique customer 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 ViPR. 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.
1.3.7 Chassis Dimensions
Figure 1.2 shows the dimensions of the ViPR Chassis and mounting plate.
Figure 1.2 ViPR Chassis Dimensions (units are in inches)

001-5008-000 rev5_2.doc Page 13
1.4 PART NUMBERS AND AVAILABILITY
1.4.1 ViPR Radio
Table 1.5 provides a breakdown of the ViPR part number 140-50X8-Y0Z.
Table 1.5 - Part Number Breakdown
Model Number Description Frequency Range
140-5018-500 Standard VHF ViPR 136 - 174 MHz
140-5028-502 Standard VHF ViPR 200 215 – 240 MHz
140-5048-300 Standard UHF ViPR Range 3 406.1 - 470 MHz
140-5048-500 Standard UHF ViPR Range 5 450 – 512 MHz
140-5098-500 Standard 900MHz ViPR 928 – 960 MHz
140-5018-501 Dual Port VHF ViPR 136 - 174 MHz
140-5028-503 Dual Port VHF ViPR 200 215 – 240 MHz
140-5048-301 Dual Port UHF ViPR Range 3 406.1 - 470 MHz
140-5048-501 Dual Port UHF ViPR Range 5 450 – 512 MHz
140-5098-501 Dual Port 900MHz ViPR 928 – 960 MHz
1.4.2 Accessories and Options
Tables 1.6-1.8 list standard accessories (including antenna, feedline, and connectors) tested
and approved for use with the ViPR.
Table 1.6 - Accessories
ITEM PART NUMBER
ViPR Power Cable 897-5008-010
ViPR Demo Kit* – VHF - 136-174, 215-240 MHz 250-5018-500
ViPR Demo Kit* – UHF - 406-470 MHz 250-5048-300
ViPR Demo Kit* – UHF - 450-512 MHz 250-5048-500
Factory Installed ViPR Fan Kit 150-5008-001
Field Installed ViPR Fan Kit** 150-5008-002
TNC-Male to N-Male 18” 250-0697-103
TNC-Male to N-Male 48” 250-0697-104
TNC-Male to N-Male 72” 250-0697-105
TNC-Male to N-Female 18” 250-0697-106
* The ViPR Demo Kit includes two of each of the following: ViPR, rubber duck antennas, adapters, attenuators,
power cables, and power supplies.
** The field install Fan Kit is available for all UHF/900 ViPRs (140-5048-xxx/140-5098-xxx) but is only available for
VHF models-(140-5018-xxx) with RF revision 0.3 or greater (shipping Fall 2008). Contact CalAmp Technical
Support for more information.

001-5008-000 rev5_2.doc Page 14
Table 1.7 Antenna Kits
ITEM PART NUMBER
Antenna Kit*: 138-143 MHz 6.5 dBd 250-0211-007
Antenna Kit*: 138-143 MHz 9.5 dBd 250-0211-010
Antenna Kit*: 143-148 MHz 6.5 dBd 250-0211-107
Antenna Kit*: 143-138 MHz 9.5 dBd 250-0211-110
Antenna Kit*: 148-152 MHz 6.5 dBd 250-0211-207
Antenna Kit*: 148-152 MHz 9.5 dBd 250-0211-210
Antenna Kit*: 152-157 MHz 6.5 dBd 250-0211-307
Antenna Kit*: 152-157 MHz 9.5 dBd 250-0211-310
Antenna Kit*: 157-163 MHz 6.5 dBd 250-0211-407
Antenna Kit*: 157-163 MHz 9.5 dBd 250-0211-410
Antenna Kit*: 163-169 MHz 6.5 dBd 250-0211-507
Antenna Kit*: 163-169 MHz 9.5 dBd 250-0211-510
Antenna Kit*: 169-174 MHz 6.5 dBd 250-0211-607
Antenna Kit*: 169-174 MHz 9.5 dBd 250-0211-610
Antenna Kit*: 216-222 MHz 6.5 dBd 250-0221-007
Antenna Kit*: 216-222 MHz 9.5 dBd 250-0221-010
Antenna Kit*: 450-470 MHz, 7 dBd 250-0241-507
Antenna Kit*: 450-470 MHz, 10 dBd 250-0241-510
Antenna Kit*: 890-960 MHz, 6.4 dBd 250-5099-011
Antenna Kit*: 890-960 MHz, 10 dBd 250-5099-021
*Kits include premium antenna, mounting bracket, surge protector, grounding kit, cable ties, 18” TNC male to N-
male jumper cable and weather kit. UHF/900 kits include 25 feet of LMR400 antenna feedline. Feedline is available
for VHF kits in 25 or 50 feet lengths.
Table 1.8 - Feedline and Connectors
ITEM PART NUMBER
25 feet antenna feedline (LMR400), N-Male 250-0200-025
50 feet antenna feedline (LMR400), N-Male 250-0200-055
Barrel Connector, RF1 N type, Female 250-0200-100
1.5 PRODUCT WARRANTY
It is our guarantee that every ViPR Radio modem will be free from physical defects in
material and workmanship for TWO YEARS 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 B. If the product proves
defective during the warranty period, contact our Customer Service Department 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 online at www.calamp.com/component/option,com_rma/

001-5008-000 rev5_2.doc Page 15
FACTORY AND TECHNICAL SUPPORT
M-F 7:30-4:30 CST
CalAmp Wireless DataCom
299 Johnson Ave., Ste 110, Waseca, MN 56093
Tel [phone]; Fax [phone]
Email [email protected]
1.6 RMA REQUEST
When returning a product, mark the RMA clearly on the outside of the package. Include a
complete description of the problem and the name and telephone number of a contact
person. RETURN REQUESTS WILL NOT BE PROCESSED WITHOUT THIS INFORMATION.
Contact Customer Service:
299 Johnson Ave., Ste 110
Waseca, MN 56093
Tel [phone]
BE SURE TO HAVE THE EQUIPMENT MODEL AND SERIAL NUMBER, AND BILLING AND
SHIPPING ADDRESSES ON HAND WHEN CALLING.
For units in warranty, customers are responsible for shipping charges to CalAmp Wireless
DataCom. For units returned out of warranty, customers are responsible for all shipping
charges. Return shipping instructions are the responsibility of the customer.
1.7 DOCUMENTATION AND DOWNLOADS
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. For access to
the most current product documentation and application notes, visit
www.calamp.com/home/download_library.html

001-5008-000 rev5_2.doc Page 16
2
2 S SY YS ST TE EM M A AR RC CH HI IT TE EC CT TU UR RE E A AN ND D N NE ET TW WO OR RK K P PL LA AN NN NI IN NG G
This section briefly discusses network architecture (including basic network types),
interfacing modems and DTE, data protocols for efficient channel operation, addressing, and
repeaters.
ViPR is designed to replace wire lines in SCADA, telemetry and control applications. The
Ethernet and RS-232 serial port allows direct connection to Programmable Logic Controllers
(PLCs) or Remote Terminal Units (RTUs). A SCADA system is defined as 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.
The ViPR is intended for use in the Industrial Monitoring and SCADA market. The range of
the ViPR is dependent on terrain, RF (radio frequency) path obstacles, and antenna system
design. This section provides tips for selecting an appropriate site, choosing an antenna
system, and reducing the chance of harmful interference.
2.1 SINGLE COVERAGE AREA
In a network topology with only a single coverage area (all units can talk to one another
directly), there are several common system configurations.
The most common is for one unit to be designated as a master and the rest designated as
remotes. Another system configuration is Report-by-Exception.
2.2 MASTER/REMOTE
In a ViPR network, ViPRs are not programmed to be masters or remotes. All ViPRs in a
network can be configured the same. However, a unit can be configured as an Access Point.
The unit configured as an Access Point would allow access to the Internet, but an Access
Point is not required in all networks. Most SCADA networks have a “polling master”, but the
polling master is not necessarily configured any different than the remotes. It is the
responsibility of the polling master to control RF traffic so RF collisions do not occur.
Note: 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 possibly corrupt data.
The ViPR 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. These
technologies still need to 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 ViPR 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 ViPR. ViPRs will buffer reply messages because the dominant RTU/radio
is transmitting (carrier is present). A ViPR 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

001-5008-000 rev5_2.doc Page 17
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 ViPR has the ability to use two completely different and separate SCADA polling
protocols, it is important to have interaction between the two protocols. The ViPR 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.
2.3 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,
mobile applications (like in-vehicle GPS receivers and base stations) or a wide variety of
other networking applications.
System configurations indicated above allow for either Ethernet or serial interfaces. In
bridge mode, all the network devices are on the same IP subnet. In router mode, the
Ethernet connection on the polling master unit and the remote(s) use different IP subnets.
A hub or switch may be used to allow multiple devices to connect to the ViPR radio modem.
Serial connections are transparent pass-through connections, allowing the use of legacy
serial devices in the ViPR product environment.
Figure 2.1 – Point-to-Point Network

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2.3.1 Point-to-Multipoint
A Point-to-Multipoint network is a common network type used in SCADA or other polling
systems. The single polling master 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 2.2 – Point to Multipoint Network
2.3.2 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. The ViPR has several collision avoidance features to help minimize collisions.
The ViPR is a “polite radio”. The ViPR 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 ViPR will buffer the data. The ViPR will transmit the buffered
data when there is no RF traffic present (no carrier present).

001-5008-000 rev5_2.doc Page 19
2.4 EXTENDING THE COVERAGE AREA WITH A RELAY POINT
The ViPR has a Relay Point feature that allows a unit to relay data from one RF coverage
area to another RF coverage area. When units are spread over two or more coverage areas,
the user must identify the devices forming the backbone between coverage areas so any
unit can talk to any other regardless of their locations. There can be multiple Relay Points
in the system extending the coverage over several hops.
Figure 2.3 - Two Coverage Areas
The unit forming the backbone between the coverage areas must be configured to repeat all
necessary information from one coverage area to the next. This unit must have the Relay
Point parameter enabled (See Section 6.1).
2.4.1 Understanding RF Path Requirements
Radio waves are propagated when electrical energy produced by a radio transmitter is
converted into magnetic energy by an antenna. Magnetic waves travel through space. The
receiving antenna intercepts a very small amount of this magnetic energy and converts it
back into electrical energy that is amplified by the radio receiver. The energy received by
the receiver is called the Received Signal Strength Indication (RSSI) and is measured in
dBm.
A radio modem requires a minimum amount of received RF signal to operate reliably and
provide adequate data throughput. This is the radio’s receiver sensitivity. In most cases,
spectrum regulators will define or limit the amount of signal that can be transmitted and it
will be noted on the FCC license. This is the effective isotropic radiated power (EIRP).
Transmitted power decays with distance and other factors as it moves away from the
transmitting antenna.
2.5 SITE SELECTION AND SITE SURVEY
2.5.1 Site Selection
For a successful installation, careful thought must be given to selecting the site for each
radio. Suitable sites should provide the following:
Protection from direct weather exposure
A source of adequate and stable primary power
Suitable entrances for antenna, interface, or other cabling
Antenna location with an unobstructed transmission path to all remote radios in the
system
These requirements can be quickly determined in most cases.

001-5008-000 rev5_2.doc Page 20
2.5.2 Site Survey
A Site Survey is an RF propagation study of the RF path between two points or between one
point and multiple points. UHF radio signals travel primarily by line of sight and
obstructions between the sending and receiving stations will affect system performance.
Signal propagation is also affected by attenuation from obstructions such as terrain, foliage,
or buildings in the transmission path. A Site Survey is recommended for most projects to
determine the optimal RF paths for each link. This is especially true when more than one RF
coverage area is required. A Site Survey will determine the best unit location for the Relay
Points.
2.6 SELECTING ANTENNA AND FEEDLINE
The ViPR can be used with a variety of antenna types. The exact style used depends on the
physical size and layout of a system. The ViPR device has been tested and approved with
antennas having a maximum gain of 10 dBi.
2.6.1 Antenna Gain
Antenna gain is usually measured in comparison to a dipole. A dipole acts much like the
filament of a flashlight bulb: it radiates energy in almost all directions. One bulb like this
would provide very dim room lighting. Add a reflector capable of concentrating all the
energy into a narrow angle of radiation and you have a flashlight. Within that bright spot
on the wall, the light might be a thousand times greater than it would be without the
reflector. The resulting bulb-reflector combination has a gain of 1000, or 30 dB, compared
to the bulb alone. Gain can be achieved by concentrating the energy both vertically and
horizontally, as in the case of the flashlight and Yagi antenna. Gain can be also be achieved
by reducing the vertical angle of radiation, leaving the horizontal alone. In this case, the
antenna will radiate equally in all horizontal directions, but will take energy that otherwise
would have gone skywards and use it to increase the horizontal radiation.
The required antenna impedance is 50 ohms. To reduce potential radio 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.
See Table 1.7 for a list of tested antenna recommendations. These antennas are FCC
approved for use with the ViPR. Similar antenna types from other manufacturers are equally
acceptable. It is important to follow the manufacturer’s recommended installation
procedures and instructions when mounting any antenna.
2.6.2 Omni Directional Antenna
In general, an omni directional antenna should be used at a master station and Relay
Points. This allows equal coverage to all of the remote locations. Omni directional antennas
are designed to radiate the RF signal in a 360-degree pattern around the antenna. Short
range antennas such as folded dipoles and ground independent whips are used to radiate
the signal in a ball shaped pattern while high gain omni antennas, such as a collinear
antenna, compress the RF radiation sphere into the horizontal plane to provide a relatively
flat disc shaped pattern that travels further because more of the energy is radiated in the
horizontal plane.