GE MDS 9710T User manual

Installation and Operation Guide
Technical Manual
MDS 05-3305A01, Rev. E
OCTOBER 2011
400 MHz and 900 MHz
Remote Data Transceivers
MDS 4710/9710 Series
(Including: MDS 4710A/C/M and MDS 9710A/C/M/T)

QUICK START GUIDE
Below are the basic steps for installing the transceiver. See “INSTALLATION” on Page 5 of this guide for
detailed instructions.
1. Install and connect the antenna system to the radio
• Use good quality, low loss coaxial cable. Keep the feedline as short as possible.
• Preset directional antennas in the direction of desired transmission.
2. Connect the data equipment to the radio’s INTERFACE connector
• Use a DB-25 Male connector to connect to the radio. Connections for typical systems are shown
below.
• Connect only the required pins. Do not use a straight-through RS-232 cable with all pins wired.
• Verify the data equipment is configured as DTE. (By default, the radio is configured as DCE.)
3. Apply DC power to the radio (10.5–16 Vdc @ 2.5 A minimum)
• Observe proper polarity. The red wire is the positive lead; the black is negative.
4. Set the radio’s basic configuration with a Hand-Held Terminal (HHT)
• Set the transmit frequency (TX xxx.xxxx).
• Set the receive frequency (RX xxx.xxxx).
• Set the baud rate/data interface parameters as follows. Use the BAUD xxxxx abc command, where
xxxxx equals the data speed (110–38400 bps) and abc equals the communication parameters as
follows:
a = Data bits (7 or 8)
b = Parity (N for None, O for Odd, E for Even
c = Stop bits (1 or 2)
(Example: BAUD 9600 8N1)
NOTE: 7N1, 8E2 and 8O2 are invalid parameters and are not supported by the transceiver.
5. Verify proper operation by observing the LED display
• Refer to Table 7 on Page 14 for a description of the status LEDs.
• Refine directional antenna headings for maximum receive signal strength using the RSSI command.
DB-9 DB-25 DB-9 DB-25
As required for application
TRANSCEIVER
(DCE)
RTU
(DTE)
DB-9 to DB-25 Example
As required for application
RTU
(DTE)
DB-25 to DB-25 Example
TRANSCEIVER
(DCE)
3
2
7
6
4
8
5
RTS
RXD
TXD
DCD
GND
DSR
CTS
RTS
RXD
TXD
DCD
GND
DSR
CTS
2
3
5
6
7
1
8
2
3
4
5
6
1
7
8
2
3
4
5
6
1
7
8
DSR
TXD
RXD
GND
RTS
CTS
GND
DCD
DSR
TXD
RXD
GND
RTS
CTS
GND
DCD

MDS 05-3305A01, Rev. E MDS 4710/9710 Technical Manual i
TABLE OF CONTENTS
1.0 GENERAL ................................................................................... 1
1.1 Introduction ......................................................................................1
1.2 Applications ......................................................................................2
Point-to-Multipoint, Multiple Address Systems (MAS) ......................2
Point-to-Point System .......................................................................3
Continuously-Keyed versus Switched-Carrier Operation..................3
Single-Frequency (Simplex) Operation.............................................4
1.3 Model Number Codes ......................................................................4
1.4 Contents of Standard Shipping Packages ........................................4
1.5 Accessories ......................................................................................5
2.0 INSTALLATION............................................................................ 5
2.1 Installation Steps ..............................................................................6
2.2 Transceiver Mounting .......................................................................7
2.3 Antennas and Feedlines ..................................................................9
Feedlines ..........................................................................................9
2.4 Power Connection ..........................................................................10
2.5 Safety/Earth Ground ......................................................................10
2.6 Data Interface Connections ............................................................11
2.7 Using the Radio’s Sleep Mode .......................................................12
System Example.............................................................................13
3.0 OPERATION.............................................................................. 13
3.1 LED Indicators ................................................................................14
3.2 RSSI Measurement ........................................................................14
4.0 TRANSCEIVER PROGRAMMING............................................ 15
4.1 Hand-Held Terminal Connection & Startup ....................................15
4.2 Hand-Held Terminal Setup .............................................................16
4.3 Keyboard Commands ....................................................................17
Entering Commands.......................................................................17
Error Messages...............................................................................19
4.4 Detailed Command Descriptions ....................................................21
ALARM............................................................................................21
AMASK [0000 0000–FFFF FFFF]...................................................21
ASENSE [HI/LO].............................................................................23
BAUD [xxxxx abc]...........................................................................24
BUFF [ON, OFF] [xxx].....................................................................24
CKEY [ON–OFF].............................................................................25
CTS [0–255]....................................................................................25
DATAKEY [ON, OFF]......................................................................25

ii MDS 4710/9710 Technical Manual MDS 05-3305A01, Rev. E
DEVICE [DCE, CTS KEY]...............................................................25
DKEY..............................................................................................26
DIN [ON/OFF].................................................................................26
DLINK [ON/OFF/xxxx].....................................................................26
DTYPE [NODE/ROOT]...................................................................26
DUMP .............................................................................................26
EMP [ON/OFF]................................................................................26
HREV..............................................................................................27
INIT.................................................................................................27
INIT [4710/9710].............................................................................27
INIT [4720/9720].............................................................................27
KEY.................................................................................................28
MODEL...........................................................................................28
MODEM [xxxx, NONE]....................................................................28
OWM [XXX...]..................................................................................28
OWN [XXX...]..................................................................................28
PTT [0–255]....................................................................................28
PWR [20–37]...................................................................................28
RSSI................................................................................................29
RTU [ON/OFF/0-80]........................................................................29
RX [xxx.xxxx] ..................................................................................29
RXLEVEL [–20 to +6]......................................................................30
RXTOT [NONE, 1-1440] .................................................................30
SCD [0-255]....................................................................................30
SER.................................................................................................30
SHOW [DC, PORT, PWR]...............................................................30
SNR ................................................................................................30
SREV..............................................................................................31
STAT ...............................................................................................31
TEMP..............................................................................................31
TOT [1-255, ON, OFF]....................................................................31
TX [xxx.xxxx]...................................................................................31
TXLEVEL [–20 to +6, AUTO]..........................................................32
UNIT [10000...65000]......................................................................32
5.0 TROUBLESHOOTING .............................................................. 32
5.1 LED Indicators ................................................................................32
5.2 Event Codes ...................................................................................33
Checking for Alarms—STAT command...........................................33
Major Alarms vs. Minor Alarms.......................................................33
Event Code Definitions ...................................................................34
6.0 TECHNICAL REFERENCE....................................................... 35
6.1 MDS 4710A/C/M and 9710A/C/M/T Transceiver Specifications ....35
6.2 Helical Filter Adjustment ................................................................36
6.3 Performing Network-Wide Remote Diagnostics .............................37
6.4 User-Programmable Interface Output Functions ...........................39
6.5 Upgrading the Radio’s Software ....................................................40
6.6 External Orderwire Module ............................................................41

MDS 05-3305A01, Rev. E MDS 4710/9710 Technical Manual iii
Installation.......................................................................................41
Operation........................................................................................42
6.7 dBm-Watts-Volts Conversion Chart ................................................43
7.0 GLOSSARY OF TERMS ........................................................... 44
Copyright Notice
This Installation and Operation Guide and all software described herein
are protected by copyright: 2010 GE MDS, LLC. All rights reserved.
GE MDS, LLC reserves its right to correct any errors and omissions in
this publication.
Revision Notice
While every reasonable effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of
this manual, product improvements may result in minor differences
between the manual and the product shipped to you. If you have addi-
tional questions or need an exact specification for a product, please con-
tactour Customer Service Team using the information at the back of this
guide. In addition, manual updates can often be found on the GE MDS
Web site at www.microwavedata.com.
ISO 9001 Registration
GE MDS adheres to this internationally accepted quality system stan-
dard.
MDS Quality Policy Statement
We, the employees of GE MDS, LLC, are committed to achieving total
customer satisfaction in everything we do.
Total Customer Satisfaction in:
• Conception, design, manufacture and marketing of our products.
• Services and support we provide to our internal and external
customers.
Total Customer Satisfaction Achieved Through:
• Processes that are well documented and minimize variations.
• Partnering with suppliers who are committed to providing quality and
service.
• Measuring our performance against customer expectations and
industry leaders.
• Commitment to continuous improvement and employee involvement.

iv MDS 4710/9710 Technical Manual MDS 05-3305A01, Rev. E
Antenna Installation Warning
1. All antenna installation and servicing is to be performed by
qualified technical personnel only. When servicing the antenna, or
working at distances closer than those listed below, ensure the
transmitter has been disabled.
Output is measured at the antenna terminal of the transmitter. The
antenna(s) used for this transmitter must be fixed-mounted on
outdoor permanent structures to provide the minimum separation
distances described in this filing for satisfying RF exposure
compliance requirements. When applicable, RF exposure
compliance may need to be addressed at the time of licensing, as
required by the responsible FCC Bureau(s), including antenna
co-location requirements of §1.1307(b)(3).
2. Typically, the antenna connected to the transmitter is a directional
(high gain) antenna, fixed-mounted on the side or top of a building,
or on a tower. Depending upon the application and the gain of the
antenna, the total composite power could exceed 200 watts EIRP.
The antenna location should be such that only qualified technical
personnel can access it, and that under normal operating conditions
no other person can touch the antenna or approach within 3.05
meters of the antenna.
FCC Part 15 Notice
The MDS 4710 AND 9710 transceivers licensed under Part 15 of the
FCC Rules. (MDS 4710, Part 90.210, 403–512 MHz; MDS 9710,
Part 101.101, 928–960 MHz) Operation is subject to the following two
conditions: (1) this device may not cause harmful interference, and (2)
thisdevicemustacceptanyinterferencereceived,includinginterference
that may cause undesired operation. This device is specifically designed
to be used under Section 15.247 of the FCC Rules and Regulations. Any
RF Exposure
Separation distances
required for FCC RF
Exposure compliance
Antenna Gain vs. Recommended Safety Distance
(MDS 4710 Series)
Antenna Gain (MDS 4710 Series)
0–5 dBi 5–10 dBi 10–16.5 dBi
Minimum RF
Safety Distance 0.79 meter 1.41 meters 3.05 meters
Antenna Gain vs. Recommended Safety Distance
(MDS 9710 Series)
Antenna Gain (MDS 9710 Series)
0–5 dBi 5–10 dBi 10–18.65 dBi
Minimum RF
Safety Distance 0.53 meter 0.94 meter 2.6 meters

MDS 05-3305A01, Rev. E MDS 4710/9710 Technical Manual v
unauthorized modification or changes to this device without the express
approval of Microwave Data Systems may void the user’s authority to
operate this device. Furthermore, this device is intended to be used only
when installed in accordance with the instructions outlined in this
manual. Failure to comply with these instructions may also void the
user’s authority to operate this device.
CSA/usNotice
This product is approved for use in Class 1, Division 2, Groups A, B,
C & D Hazardous Locations. Such locations are defined in Article 500
of the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) publication NFPA
70, otherwise known as the National Electrical Code.
Thetransceiverhasbeenrecognizedfor use in these hazardous locations
by the Canadian Standards Association (CSA) which also issues the US
mark of approval (CSA/US). The CSA Certification is in accordance
with CSA STD C22.2 No. 213-M1987.
CSA Conditions of Approval: The transceiver is not acceptable as a
stand-alone unit for use in the hazardous locations described above. It
must either be mounted within another piece of equipment which is cer-
tified for hazardous locations, or installed within guidelines, or condi-
tions of approval, as set forth by the approving agencies. These
conditions of approval are as follows:
• The transceiver must be mounted within a separate enclosure
which is suitable for the intended application.
• The antenna feedline, DC power cable and interface cable must
be routed through conduit in accordance with the National Elec-
trical Code.
• Installation, operation and maintenance of the transceiver should
be in accordance with the transceiver's installation manual, and
the National Electrical Code.
• Tampering or replacement with non-factory components may
adversely affect the safe use of the transceiver in hazardous loca-
tions, and may void the approval.
• A power connector with screw-type retaining screws as supplied
by GE MDS must be used.
Do not disconnect equipment unless power has been
switched off or the area is known to be non-hazardous.
Refer to Articles 500 through 502 of the National Electrical
Code (NFPA 70) for further information on hazardous
locations and approved Division 2 wiring methods.
EXPLOSION
HAZARD!

vi MDS 4710/9710 Technical Manual MDS 05-3305A01, Rev. E
Distress Beacon Warning
In the U.S.A., the 406 to 406.1 MHz band is reserved for use by distress
beacons. Since the radio described in this manual is capable of transmit-
ting in this band, take precautions to prevent the radio from transmitting
between 406 to 406.1 MHz in U.S. applications.
ESD Notice
To prevent malfunction or damage to this radio, which may be caused
by Electrostatic Discharge (ESD), the radio should be properly
groundedbyconnection to the ground studontherear panel. In addition,
the installer or operator should follow proper ESD precautions, such as
touching a grounded bare metal object to dissipate body charge, prior to
adjusting front panel controls or connecting or disconnecting cables on
the front or rear panels.
Environmental Information
The equipment that you purchased has required the extraction and use
of natural resources for its production. Improper disposal may contami-
nate the environment and present a health risk due to hazardous sub-
stances contained within. To avoid dissemination of these substances
into our environment, and to diminish the demand on natural resources,
we encourage you to use the appropriate recycling systems for disposal.
These systems will reuse or recycle most of the materials found in this
equipment in a sound way. Please contact MDS or your supplier for
more information on the proper disposal of this equipment.
BatteryDisposal–Thisproduct may containabattery.Batteries must be
disposed of properly, and may not be disposed of as unsorted municipal
waste in the European Union. See the product documentation for spe-
cific battery information. Batteries are marked with a symbol, which
may include lettering to indicate cadmium (Cd), lead (Pb), or mercury
(Hg). For proper recycling return the battery to your supplier or to a des-
ignated collection point. For more information see:
www.weeerohsinfo.com.

MDS 05-3305A01, Rev. E MDS 4710/9710 Technical Manual 1
1.0 GENERAL
1.1 Introduction
This guide presents installation and operating instructions for the
MDS 4710A/9710Aandthe MDS 4710C/9710C Series(400/900MHz)
digital radio transceivers.
These transceivers (Figure 1) are data telemetry radios designed to
operate in a point-to-multipoint environment, such as electric utility
Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) and distribution
automation, gas field automation, water and wastewater SCADA, and
online transaction processing applications. They use microprocessor
control and Digital Signal Processing (DSP) technology to provide
highly reliable communications under adverse conditions.
Figure 1. Transceiver Connectors and Indicators
Modulation and demodulation is accomplished using Digital Signal Pro-
cessing (DSP). DSP adapts to differences between components from
unit to unit, and ensures consistent and repeatable performance in
ambient temperatures from –30 to +60 degrees Celsius. The use of Dig-
ital Signal Processing eliminates the fluctuations and variations in
modem operation that degrade operation of analog circuits.
The transceiver is designed for trouble-free operation with data equip-
ment provided by other manufacturers, including Remote Terminal
Units (RTUs), flow computers, lottery terminals, automatic teller
machines, programmable logic controllers, and others.
NOTE: Some features are not available on all radios, based on the
options purchased and the applicable regulatory constraints for
the region in which the radio operates.
DIAGNOSTICS
CONNECTOR (RJ-11)
ANTENNA CONNECTOR
(TYPE N)
13.8 VDC POWER
CONNECTOR
SERIAL NUMBER
LABEL
EXTERNAL
INTERFACE
CONNECTOR
(DB-25)
LED INDICATORS (4)

2 MDS 4710/9710 Technical Manual MDS 05-3305A01, Rev. E
1.2 Applications
Point-to-Multipoint, Multiple Address Systems (MAS)
This is the most common application of the transceiver. It consists of a
central master station and several associated remote units as shown in
Figure 2. A MAS network provides communication between a central
host computer and remote terminal units (RTUs) or other data collection
devices.Theoperationoftheradiosystemistransparenttothecomputer
equipment.
Often, however, a radio system consists of many widely separated
remote radios. A point-to-multipoint or SCADA (Supervisory Control
and Data Acquisition) system might be utilized for automatic, remote
monitoring of gas wells, water tank levels, electric power distribution
system control and measurement, and so on.
The radio system can replace a network of remote monitors currently
linked to a central location via leased telephone line. At the central
office of such a system, there is usually a large mainframe computer and
a way to switch between individual lines coming from each remote mon-
itor. In this type of system, there is a modulator/demodulator (modem)
at the main computer, and at each remote site, usually built into the
remote monitor itself. Since the cost of leasing a dedicated-pair phone
line is quite high, a desirable alternative is to replace the phone line with
a radio path.
Figure 2. Typical MAS Point-to-Multipoint Network

IDIAG
13.8 VDC
PWR
+

HOST SYSTEM
REMOTE RADIO
SWC OFF
RTU
RTU
RTU
RTU

IDIAG
13.8 VDC
PWR
+


IDIAG
13.8 VDC
PWR
+


IDIAG
13.8 VDC
PWR
+


IDIAG
13.8 VDC
PWR
+

RTU
MDS MASTER
STATION
CONTINUOUSLY
KEYED
REMOTE RADIO
SWC OFF
REMOTE RADIO
SWC OFF
REMOTE RADIO
SWC OFF
REMOTE RADIO
SWC OFF