Elster Ea_repeater User manual

General

Areas with less than 2 hours of sunlight per day for significant periods of time (for example: Alaska,

northern Canada, etc.) are not suitable locations for the EA_Repeater with the solar power option.

For information regarding solar insolation, visit the following Web sites:

• Within the United States, see the National Renewable Energy Laboratory at

http://www.nrel.gov/gis/solar.html

• Within Canada, see Natural Resources Canada:

https://glfc.cfsnet.nfis.org/mapserver/pv/index_e.php (English)

https://glfc.cfsnet.nfis.org/mapserver/pv/index_f.php (français)

In less densely populated areas, the range ofa gatekeeper’s EA_LAN can be extended by deploying a

repeating device called the EA_Repeater. EA_Repeaters enhance network performance with two-way

communications in rural or remote areas where EnergyAxis-enabled electricity meters are not

sufficiently dense to support reliable mesh network communications. The EA_Repeater can also be

used to create the EA_LAN for water-only or gas-only utilities or utility service areas.

There are two versions of the EA_Repeater. Both versions use a NEMA 4X rated polycarbonate

enclosure that provides different installation options. If the antenna needs to be elevated to increase

communications distances, version 2 offers the ability to add a remote external antenna.

• Figure 1 shows the approximate dimensions of version 1

• Figure 2 shows the approximate dimensions of version 2

• Figure 3 shows the approximate dimensions of the solar panel

Before installing the EA_Repeater (version 2), you must tear off the foam cubes located inside the

surface of the enclosure door. Failure to remove the foam cubes may result in allowing moisture and

dust to enter the enclosure. See “Removing the foam cubes” on page 3 for more information.

Solar EA_Repeater installation instructions

IL42-5020B

Solar EA_Repeater installation instructions 2

Figure 1. Solar EA_Repeater (version 1) dimensions

Figure 2. Solar EA_Repeater (version 2) dimensions

8.5 [216]

4.0 [102] R0.28

[R7]

R0.5

[R13]

10.1

[257]

13.7

[348]

16.4

[417]

1.0 [25]

3.5 [89]

Approximate dimensions in inches [millimeters]

9.5

[241]

4.0

[102]

8.5 [216]

R0.3

[8]

9.5

[241]

10.1

[257]

14.2

[361]

3.0

[76]

R0.8

[20]

Approximate dimensions in inches [millimeters]

1.0

[25]

3.0

[89]

17.4

[442]

Solar EA_Repeater installation instructions 3

Figure 3. Solar panel dimensions

Removing the foam cubes

Use authorized utility procedures when handling the EA_Repeater. Dangerous voltages are present.

Equipment damage, personal injury, or death can result if authorized utility procedures are not

followed when handling the EA_Repeater.

The EA_Repeater version 2 is shipped with foam cubes attached to the inside surface of the enclosure

door (see Figure 4). Before placing the repeater into service, tear off the two 1-inch by 1-inch foam

cubes. Failure to remove the foam cubes may result in allowing moisture and dust to enter the

enclosure.

14.25

[362]

315°

14.85

[377]

14.9

[379]

22.1

[561]

4.0

[102]

5.5

[140]

Approximiate dimensions

in inches [millimeters]

Solar EA_Repeater installation instructions 4

Figure 4. Location of the foam cubes to be removed

EA_Repeater components

Visually inspect all parts for any damage that may have occurred during shipment. Contact Elster if you

discover any components broken or missing.

The EA_Repeater contains components that are sensitive to electrostatic discharge (ESD). When

installing, servicing, or removing components, connect to ground with a wrist strap and follow safe

ESD procedures. Failing to properly ground both you and the electronic devices or failure to follow safe

ESD procedures to avoid ESD can result in equipment damage.

Item Manufacturer Version 1 part number Version 2 part number

MPPT solar controller GenaSun 1B11886H01 1B11886H01

PV panel subassembly Elster 5D25978G01 5D25978G02

Electronic assembly Elster 5D26170G54 5D26170G54

Enclosure mounting bracket Elster 5D25872H02 5D25872H02

3.8

[97]

3.9 [99]

Approximate dimensions in inches [millimeters]

Solar EA_Repeater installation instructions 5

Figure 5. EA_Repeater (version 1) components

LOAD

BATT

PANEL

–

123 456

Battery pack

Electronic assembly

Solar controller

Wire nuts for

PV panel connections

Ground lug

Cable gland

Enclosure mounting bracket

Solar EA_Repeater installation instructions 6

Figure 6. EA_Repeater (version 2) components

Remote LAN antenna supporting hardware

These additional antenna hardware components are required to place the EA_Repeater (version 2) into

service: antenna, antenna mounting hardware, and an RF cable to route between the enclosure and

antenna. The following table identifies the approved antennas. You can obtain the components using

your preferred provider or order it through your local Elster representative.

Note: This device has been designed to operate with the antennas listed below and having a

maximum gain of 5.15 dBi. Antennas not included in this list or having a gain greater than

5.15 dBi are strictly prohibited for use with this device. The required antenna impedance is

50 ohms.

Antenna Mount Gain

PCTEL (MAXRAD) MFB9150 unity gain

Fiberglass omnidirectional

Remote 2.15 dBi

PCTEL (MAXRAD) MFB9153 3 dB

Fiberglass omnidirectional

Remote 5.15 dBi

Electronic assembly

Enclosure mounting bracket

Solar panel

connector

External antenna/

lightning arrester

connector

Ground lug

Battery pack

Solar controller

Battery positive

terminal

Solar EA_Repeater installation instructions 7

The following hardware is available for purchase from Elster. Your local Elster representative can assist

you with purchasing these components as needed.

Placing the solar EA_Repeater into service

Determine your mounting location and use the appropriate features on the universal mounting bracket

to secure the device:

• Keyhole features: The keyhole features are intended to ease installation of the EA_Repeater by

allowing the device to hang from the fastener. The bolts can be partially installed in the mounting

location leaving a few inches of fastener exposed. The head of the fastener can then pass through

the large portion of the opening and rest in the narrower portion. The fasteners can then be fully

secured without having to hold the device in place.

• Open aperture banding slots: The banding features are used to accommodate up to a ¾-inch

stainless steel strap. These features include an open aperture to allow the bands to be partially

installed such that the EA_Repeater can hang on the straps. The straps can then be fully secured

without having to hold the device in place.

Installing the EA_Repeater remote antenna hardware (version 2 only)

Use authorized utility procedures when installing the EA_Repeater into service. Dangerous voltages

are present. Equipment damage, personal injury, or death can result if authorized utility procedures

are not followed when installing the EA_Repeater.

Placing the EA_Repeater into service will require mounting the remote external antenna in a suitable

location. The antenna should be mounted in the clear, as free from conductive or metallic obstructions

as possible. The connectors should be sealed for waterproofing.

There are several options for remote antenna cabling. The most economical connection to the external

remote antenna is the LMR-400 type cable. This type of cable is suitable for distances up to 100 feet

(approximately 30 meters). Antenna cables should be ordered with the N-type male connectors on

each end. One end attaches to the EA_Repeater housing, and the other end attaches to the antenna.

You may perform on-site assembly, order stock lengths from Elster, or order pre-assembled cables (for

example, from Laird Technologies).

The RF cable should be mounted at the bottom of the enclosure in a drip loop fashion. A drip loop is

formed by bringing the RF cable to a point below the enclosure and then bending it back up to the

lightning arrestor bulkhead. This forms a U-shape which allows water to run down the cable exterior.

Item Part number

MAXRAD MBF9153 antenna and mounting hardware 7S1812G001

Stock cable lengths

N-male to N-male LMR-400 RF cable, 10-foot 7S1816H001

N-male to N-male LMR-400 RF cable, 15-foot 7S1816H002

N-male to N-male LMR-400 RF cable, 25-foot 7S1816H003

N-male to N-male LMR-400 RF cable, 35-foot 7S1816H004

N-male to N-male LMR-400 RF cable, 50-foot 7S1816H005

N-male to N-male LMR-400 RF cable, 100-foot 7S1816H006

Solar EA_Repeater installation instructions 8

Connecting power to the EA_Repeater (version 1)

Use authorized utility procedures when installing the EA_Repeater into service. Dangerous voltages

are present. Equipment damage, personal injury, or death can result if authorized utility procedures

are not followed when installing the EA_Repeater.

Do not short-circuit the red battery cable to the controller. Shorting the red battery cable can

permanently damage the battery assembly or solar controller and cause faulty operation to the

device.

Be sure to follow your utility’s procedures for installing the solar panel that will be used for the

EA_Repeater. Be sure to follow your utility’s procedures for installing or mounting the EA_Repeater on

the pole or surface.

The EA_Repeater is shipped with most of the wiring connections already made. To complete the wiring

and place the EA_Repeater into service (see Figure 5):

1 Remove the vinyl cap from the battery positive terminal. The vinyl cap is no longer needed and may

be disposed.

2 Attach the red battery cable to the positive battery terminal on the solar controller.

3 Feed the solar supply cable through the PV panel gland.

4 Attach the red PV panel cable to the solar controller white flying lead.

5 Attach the black PV panel cable to the solar controller black flying lead.

6 Torque the PV panel gland to 22 inch-pounds (2.5 Newton-meters).

Solar EA_Repeater installation instructions 9

Connecting power to the EA_Repeater (version 2)

Use authorized utility procedures when installing the EA_Repeater into service. Dangerous voltages

are present. Equipment damage, personal injury, or death can result if authorized utility procedures

are not followed when installing the EA_Repeater.

Do not short-circuit the red battery cable to the controller. Shorting the red battery cable can

permanently damage the battery assembly or solar controller and cause faulty operation to the

device.

Be sure to follow your utility’s procedures for installing the solar panel that will be used for the

EA_Repeater. Be sure to follow your utility’s procedures for installing or mounting the EA_Repeater on

the pole or surface.

The EA_Repeater is shipped with most of the wiring connections already made. To complete the wiring

and place the EA_Repeater into service (see Figure 6):

1 Remove the vinyl cap from the battery positive terminal. The vinyl cap is no longer needed and may

be disposed.

2 Attach the red battery cable to the positive battery terminal on the solar controller.

3 Unscrew the cap to the solar panel connector.

4 Attach the solar panel cable to the solar panel connector. The cable is keyed. Once the cable is

correctly aligned, it will slide into place.

5 Securely hand-tighten the solar panel cable.

Solar EA_Repeater installation instructions 10

DISCLAIMER OF WARRANTIES AND LIMITATIONS OF LIABILITY

There are no understandings, agreements, representations, or warranties either express or implied, including warranties of merchantability or fitness

for a particular purpose, other than those specifically set out by any existing contract between the parties. Any such contract states the entire

obligation of the seller. The contents of this document shall not become part of or modify any prior existing agreement, commitment, or relationship.

The information, recommendations, descriptions, and safety notices in this document are based on Elster Solutions, LLC experience and judgment

with respect to operation and maintenance of the described product. This information should not be considered as all-inclusive or covering all

contingencies. If further information is required, Elster Solutions, LLC should be consulted.

No warranties, either expressed or implied, including warranties of fitness for a particular purpose or merchantability, or warranties arising from the

course of dealing or usage of trade, are made regarding the information, recommendations, descriptions, warnings, and cautions contained herein.

In no event will Elster Solutions, LLC be responsible to the user in contract, in tort (including negligence), strict liability or otherwise for any special,

indirect, incidental, or consequential damage or loss whatsoever, including but not limited to: damage or loss of use of equipment, cost of capital,

loss of profits or revenues, or claims against the user by its customers resulting from the use of the information, recommendations, descriptions, and

safety notices contained herein.

Elster Solutions

Raleigh, North Carolina

Technical support: 800 338 5251

FCC and Industry Canada Compliance

User Information (Part 15.105)

This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are

designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses and can radiate

radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications.

However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio

or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one

or more of the following measures:

• reorient or relocate the receiving antenna

• increase the separation between the equipment and the receiver

• connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected

• consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help

If you experience trouble with this equipment, please use the Return Material Authorization (RMA) feature available at the Online Customer Services

at www.elstersolutions.com. Do not attempt to repair this equipment yourself unless you are replacing the entire module.

Compliance Statement (Part 15.19)

This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules and Class B digital apparatus requirements for ICES-003. Operation is subject to the following two

conditions: (1) This device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that

may cause undesired operation of the device.

This device complies with Industry Canada licence-exempt RSS standard(s). Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) this device may

not cause interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference, including interference that may cause undesired operation of the device.

Énoncé de conformité

Cet appareil est conforme à la Partie 15 des règles de la FCC et aux exigences relatives aux appareils numériques de classe B conformément à l'avis

sur la compatibilité électromagnétique ACEM-3. L'utilisation de cet appareil est soumise aux deux conditions suivantes : (1) Cet appareil ne doit pas

provoquer d'interférences nocives et (2) cet appareil doit accepter toutes les interférences reçues notamment celles pouvant provoquer un

fonctionnement intempestif de l'appareil.

Antenna Compliance

To reduce potential interference to other users, the antenna type and its gain should be so chosen that the equivalent isotropically radiated power

(e.i.r.p.) is not more than permitted for successful communication. Under Industry Canada regulations, this radio transmitter may only operate using

an antenna of a type and maximum (or lesser) gain approved for the transmitter by Industry Canada.

Conformément à la réglementation d'Industrie Canada, le présent émetteur radio peut fonctionner avec une antenne d'un type et d'un gain maximal

(ouinférieur) approuvé pour l'émetteur par Industrie Canada. Dans le but de réduire les risques de brouillage radioélectrique à l'intention des autres

utilisateurs, il faut choisir le type d'antenne et son gain de sorte que la puissance isotrope rayonnée équivalente (p.i.r.e.) ne dépasse pas l'intensité

nécessaire à l'établissement d'une communication satisfaisante.

Warning (Part 15.21)