GE MDS SD Series User manual

Installation and Operation Guide
Technical Manual
MDS 05-4846A01, Rev. H
November 2013
Covering ES/SS Units with Firmware Version 5.x
Applies to all models EXCEPT those operated in x710 Mode. For x710 mode
operation, refer to Publication 05-4670A01.
MDS SD Series
Secure, Long Range IP/Ethernet & Serial

Quick-Start instructions for this product are contained in publication 05-4847A01.
All GE MDS manuals and updates are available online at www.gemds.com.

MDS 05-4846A01, Rev. H SD Series Technical Manual i
TABLE OF CONTENTS
1.0 INTRODUCTION .................................................................................................................. 1
1.1 Conventions Used in This Manual .................................................................................................1
1.2 New Features in this Release .......................................................................................................2
2.0 PRODUCT DESCRIPTION................................................................................................... 3
2.1 Front Panel Connectors and Indicators .........................................................................................3
2.2 Key Product Features ....................................................................................................................4
Media Access Control (MAC)...........................................................................................................4
VLAN Capability...............................................................................................................................5
Terminal Server Capability...............................................................................................................5
Store and Forward Capability...........................................................................................................5
Peer-to-Peer Capability....................................................................................................................6
Frequency Re-use (System ID) .......................................................................................................6
2.3 SD Model Offerings .......................................................................................................................6
2.4 Operating Modes and Applicable Manuals ....................................................................................6
2.5 Accessories and Spares ................................................................................................................8
Protected Network Station ...............................................................................................................8
Dual Protected Configurations.........................................................................................................9
3.0 TYPICAL APPLICATIONS...................................................................................................11
3.1 Operating Parameters .................................................................................................................11
3.2 Example Systems ........................................................................................................................12
Multiple Address Systems (MAS) ..................................................................................................12
Point-to-Point System....................................................................................................................12
IP Payload/Ethernet Polling and Terminal Server Operation.........................................................13
Port Sharing with Multiple Hosts....................................................................................................14
Push Communication (Report-by Exception).................................................................................15
IP Polling of Serial Remotes..........................................................................................................15
IP Polling of Two Serial Ports on One Remote ..............................................................................16
4.0 INSTALLATION PLANNING ............................................................................................... 18
4.1 Chassis Dimensions ....................................................................................................................19
4.2 Mounting Bracket Options ...........................................................................................................19
Optional DIN Rail Mounting ...........................................................................................................20
4.3 Antennas and Feedlines ..............................................................................................................20
Antennas........................................................................................................................................20
Feedlines .......................................................................................................................................21
4.4 DC Power Connection .................................................................................................................22
4.5 Grounding Considerations ...........................................................................................................22
4.6 Ethernet Data Interface (RJ-45) ..................................................................................................23

ii SD Series Technical Manual MDS 05-4846A01, Rev. H
4.7 Serial Data Interfaces ..................................................................................................................24
COM1 (Serial) Connection.............................................................................................................24
COM2 (Data) Connections.............................................................................................................25
5.0 STEP-BY-STEP INSTALLATION ........................................................................................ 28
5.1 Initial Configuration ......................................................................................................................29
Web-Based Management ..............................................................................................................29
Web Browser Connection ..............................................................................................................30
Alternative Management Methods.................................................................................................32
5.2 Initial Startup & Checkout ............................................................................................................33
Ethernet Connector LEDs..............................................................................................................33
5.3 Optimizing the Radio Network .....................................................................................................34
Modem Type Setting......................................................................................................................34
Inter-Packet Gap Settings..............................................................................................................34
Baud Rate Setting..........................................................................................................................34
Ethernet Settings ...........................................................................................................................35
Antenna SWR Check.....................................................................................................................35
6.0 USING THE DEVICE MANAGER.......................................................................................36
6.1 Navigating the Screens ...............................................................................................................36
Overview Screen............................................................................................................................37
6.2 Management Tasks .....................................................................................................................38
6.3 Configuration Screens .................................................................................................................43
Radio..............................................................................................................................................43
Store and Forward Operation.........................................................................................................49
Features.........................................................................................................................................55
Understanding the Use of Virtual Radio Channels (VRCs)............................................................60
Using the Terminal Server—Typical Example................................................................................63
Communications Ports...................................................................................................................67
Security..........................................................................................................................................70
6.4 Maintenance & Status Screen .....................................................................................................73
Event Log.......................................................................................................................................73
Alarm Summary.............................................................................................................................74
Performance ..................................................................................................................................75
Firmware Utilities ...........................................................................................................................81
Configuration Files.........................................................................................................................85
7.0 TROUBLESHOOTING....................................................................................................... 87
7.1 LED Indicators .............................................................................................................................89
7.2 Checking for Alarms/Events ........................................................................................................89
Major Alarms vs. Minor Alarms......................................................................................................89
Status and Informational Events ....................................................................................................90
Event Code Definitions ..................................................................................................................90
7.3 Operating Constraints ..................................................................................................................91
8.0 TECHNICAL REFERENCE ................................................................................................ 93
8.1 Performing Network-Wide Remote Diagnostics ..........................................................................93
Setting Up Diagnostics...................................................................................................................94

MDS 05-4846A01, Rev. H SD Series Technical Manual iii
8.2 Over-the-Air Firmware Upgrades ................................................................................................94
Intrusive vs. Passive (Non-Intrusive) Mode ...................................................................................95
Broadcast Reprogramming Suggestions by Network Type ...........................................................96
OTA Reprogramming Overview.....................................................................................................97
Cancelling OTA Reprogramming ...................................................................................................97
Error Conditions/Recovery.............................................................................................................97
Execution and Screen Examples...................................................................................................98
8.3 COM1 Operating Modes .............................................................................................................99
Changing COM1 Modes ................................................................................................................99
8.4 Implementing Sleep Mode ...........................................................................................................99
8.5 Technical Specifications ...........................................................................................................101
8.6 dBm-Watts-Volts Conversion Chart ...........................................................................................103
9.0 GLOSSARY OF TERMS & ABBREVIATIONS ................................................................. 104
Copyright and Trademark
This manual and all software described herein is protected by Copyright: 2013 GE MDS, LLC. All
rights reserved. GE MDS, LLC reserves its right to correct any errors and omissions in this publi-
cation. Modbus® is a registered trademark of Schneider Electric Corporation. All other trademarks
and product names are the property of their respective owners.
RF Safety Notice (English and French)
Concentrated energy from a directional antenna may pose a health hazard to
humans. Do not allow people to come closer to the antenna than the distances
listed in the table below when the transmitter is operating. More information on
RF exposure can be found online at the following website:
www.fcc.gov/oet/info/documents/bulletins.
Concentré d'énergie à partir d'une antenne directionnelle peut poser un risque
pour la santé humaine. Ne pas permettre aux gens de se rapprocher de l'antenne
que les distances indiquées dans le tableau ci-dessous lorsque l'émetteur est en
marche. Plus d'informations sur l'exposition aux RF peut être trouvé en ligne à
l'adresse suivante: www.fcc.gov / oet / info / documents et bulletins.
Antenna Gain vs. Minimum RF Safety Distance
Antenna Gain
0–5 dBi 5–10 dBi 10–16.5 dBi
Safety Distance (SD4) 0.79 meter 1.41 meters 3.05 meters
RF Exposure
l'exposition aux RF

iv SD Series Technical Manual MDS 05-4846A01, Rev. H
FCC Part 15 Notice
Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) this device may not cause harmful inter-
ference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may
cause undesired operation. Any unauthorized modification or changes to this device without the
express approval of the manufacturer may void the user’s authority to operate this device. Further-
more, this device is intended to be used only when installed in accordance with the instructions out-
lined in this manual. Failure to comply with these instructions may void the user’s authority to
operate this device.
Industry Canada Notice
This Class A digital apparatus complies with Canadian ICES-003.
Cet appareil numérique de la classe A est conforme à la norme NMB-003 du Canada.
Servicing Precautions
When servicing energized equipment, be sure to wear appropriate Personal Protective Equipment
(PPE). During internal service, situations could arise where objects accidentally contact or short
circuit components and the appropriate PPE would alleviate or decrease the severity of potential
injury. When servicing radios, all workplace regulations and other applicable standards for live
electrical work should be followed to ensure personal safety.
Manual Revision and Accuracy
This manual was prepared to cover a specific version of firmware code. Accordingly, some screens
and features may differ from the actual unit you are working with. While every reasonable effort
has been made to ensure the accuracy of this publication, product improvements may also result in
minor differences between the manual and the product shipped to you. If you have additional ques-
tions or need an exact specification for a product, please contact GE MDS using the information at
the back of this guide. In addition, manual updates can be found on our web site at
www.gemds.com
Safety Distance (SD9) 0.46 meter .82 meters 1.74 meters
Safety Distance (SD1) For SD1, maintain an RF safety distance of
1.80 meters for a 7 dBd (9.15 dBi) antenna.
Use of higher gain antennas means
increasing the distance accordingly.
Safety Distance (SD2) For SD2, maintain an RF safety distance of
1.50 meters for a 7 dBd (9.15 dBi) antenna.
Use of higher gain antennas means
increasing the distance accordingly.
Safety Distance
(other models): Consult factory prior to operation.
Antenna Gain vs. Minimum RF Safety Distance
Antenna Gain
0–5 dBi 5–10 dBi 10–16.5 dBi

MDS 05-4846A01, Rev. H SD Series Technical Manual v
Environmental Information
The manufacture of this equipment has required the extraction and use of natural resources.
Improper disposal may contaminate the environment and present a health risk due to hazardous
substancescontainedwithin. To avoiddissemination of thesesubstances into our environment,and
to limit the demand on natural resources, we encourage you to use the appropriate recycling sys-
temsfor disposal. Thesesystems will reuseor recycle mostof the materialsfound in thisequipment
in a sound way. Please contact GE MDS or your supplier for more information on the proper dis-
posal of this equipment.
Battery Disposal—This product may contain a battery. Batteries must be disposed of properly, and
may not be disposed of as unsorted municipal waste in the European Union. See the product doc-
umentation for specific 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 designated collection point.
Product Test Data Sheets
Test Data Sheets showing the original factory test results for this unit are available upon request
from the GE MDS Quality Leader. Contact the factory using the information at the back of this
manual. Serial numbers must be provided for each product where a Test Data Sheet is required.
CSA/us Notice
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) pub-
lication NFPA 70, otherwise known as the National Electrical Code. The transceiver has been rec-
ognized for 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 certified for hazardous locations, or installed within guidelines, or conditions 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 accor-
dance with the National Electrical 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 locations, 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 SD Series Technical Manual MDS 05-4846A01, Rev. H
BSD License Information
TheSD Seriesproducts containsource codeoriginallyreleasedaspartof“WPA Supplicant”which
is copyrighted as indicated below and is redistributed under the terms of the BSD license:
WPA Supplicant
Copyright (c) 2003-2010, Jouni Malinen <[email protected]> and contributors
All Rights Reserved.
BSD License
-------
Redistribution and use in source and binary forms, with or without modification, are permitted pro-
vided that the following conditions are met:
1. Redistributions of source code must retain the above copyright notice, this list of conditions and
the following disclaimer.
2. Redistributions in binary form must reproduce the above copyright notice, this list of conditions
and the following disclaimer in the documentation and/or other materials provided with the distri-
bution.
3. Neither the name(s) of the above-listed copyright holder(s) nor the names of its contributors may
be used to endorse or promote products derived from this software without specific prior written
permission.
THIS SOFTWARE IS PROVIDED BY THE COPYRIGHT HOLDERS AND CONTRIBUTORS
“AS IS” AND ANY EXPRESS OR IMPLIED WARRANTIES, INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIM-
ITED TO, THE IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS FOR A
PARTICULAR PURPOSE ARE DISCLAIMED. IN NO EVENT SHALL THE COPYRIGHT
OWNER OR CONTRIBUTORS BE LIABLE FOR ANY DIRECT, INDIRECT, INCIDENTAL,
SPECIAL, EXEMPLARY, OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES (INCLUDING, BUT NOT
LIMITED TO, PROCUREMENT OF SUBSTITUTE GOODS OR SERVICES; LOSS OF USE,
DATA, OR PROFITS; OR BUSINESS INTERRUPTION) HOWEVER CAUSED AND ON
ANY THEORY OF LIABILITY, WHETHER IN CONTRACT, STRICT LIABILITY, OR TORT
(INCLUDING NEGLIGENCE OR OTHERWISE) ARISING IN ANY WAY OUT OF THE USE
OF THIS SOFTWARE, EVEN IF ADVISED OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGE.

MDS 05-4846A01, Rev. H SD Series Technical Manual 1
1.0 INTRODUCTION
This manual is one of two publications for users of the MDS SD Series
Transceiver shown in Figure 1. It contains an overview of common
applications, installation planning data, specifications, troubleshooting,
and instructions for using the web-based Device Manager. This manual
is intended for technical personnel who perform network design, config-
uration, and troubleshooting of the equipment.
A companion Setup Guide is also available (Part no. 05-4847A01). The
scope of the Setup Guide is limited to installing the transceiver and
placing it in service for the first time. All product documentation can be
downloaded free of charge from the GE MDS website at www.gemds.com.
The website also contains links to Application Bulletins and other
product information.
Invisible place holder
Figure 1. MDS SD Series Transceiver
1.1 Conventions Used in This Manual
Software & Device
Manager Notations This product is designed for software control via a connected PC. To
show the names of screen items, keyboard entries, or other information
displayed on a PC, a bolded font is used throughout the manual that
appears as follows:
Bolded font example (for screen names and keyboard entries)
To show the navigation path leading to a particular screen, this same
font is used with forward-pointing arrows between screen names. For
example, suppose you wish to access the radio’s Features Screen. The
navigation path shown for it would appear as follows:
Configuration>>Features
Model Number
Notations The term “SD” or “SD Series” is used in this manual to denote all
models in the SD product line. Specific model numbers such as MDS
SD1 (150-174 MHz), SD2 (216-235 MHz), SD4 (300-512 MHz), and
SD9 (820-960 MHz) are used only when necessary to reference
model-specific features.

2 SD Series Technical Manual MDS 05-4846A01, Rev. H
Authorization
Features Some features of the radio are dependent on purchased options and
applicable regulatory constraints. A “key” icon is shown near the
heading of any such features. In some cases a feature upgrade may be
available. Contact your sales representative for additional information.
1.2 New Features in this Release
The SD transceiver has been updated to include the following function-
ality in the latest release of the product:
• Peer-to-Peer capability (see Page 6 and Page 67)
• Internal MODBUS TCP to RTU conversion (see Page 62)
• Transparent mode with AES Encryption (see Page 72)
• DLINK AES Encryption (see Page 72)
• System ID (frequency re-use) capability (see Page 6 and Page 45)
• Data Key Hold Time-Out (see Page 9 and Page 54)
• 4800B Modem supports baud mismatch functionality at 300,
1200, and 2400 baud rates. (This feature available with
post-version 5.0.9 firmware.)

MDS 05-4846A01, Rev. H SD Series Technical Manual 3
2.0 PRODUCT DESCRIPTION
The transceiver is a software-configurable, industrial radio for use in
licensed data acquisition networks. It may be interfaced with a variety
of data control equipment including remote terminal units (RTUs), pro-
grammable logic controllers (PLCs), flow computers, and similar
devices. Data interface connections may be made for both serial
(RS-232/RS-485) and Ethernet protocols. It is designed for use in both
polled networks and report-by-exception (push) systems.
The radio employs digital signal processing (DSP) technology and a
fully digital transmit and receive IF chain to provide robust communica-
tions even under adverse conditions. DSP technology also helps elimi-
nate the effects of component variations or temperature changes,
resulting in optimized performance.
2.1 Front Panel Connectors and Indicators
Figure 2 shows the transceiver’s front panel connectors and indicators.
These items are referenced in the installation steps and in various other
locations in the manual. The transceiver’s LED functions are described
in Table 10 on Page 33.
Invisible place holder
Figure 2. Front Panel Connectors & Indicators
ANTENNA
CONNECTOR (TNC)
SERIAL DATA
CONNECTORS (DB-9)
DC INPUT
POWER
LED INDICATOR
PANEL
ETHERNET
CONNECTOR (RJ-45)
COM1 used for radio management

4 SD Series Technical Manual MDS 05-4846A01, Rev. H
2.2 Key Product Features
The transceiver is designed to meet the demanding needs of today’s
wireless networks in a compact, and rugged package. It offers an array
of features in a single hardware platform:
•Software-configurable via a built-in Device Manager—no man-
ual controls or adjustments.
• Media Access Control (MAC) to prevent data collisions when
two or more radios try to use the radio channel at the same time.
• Available encryption of payload data (AES 128-bit)
• Supports Virtual LAN (VLAN) operation
• Terminal Server capability to enable IP addressing of serial inter-
face ports on individual radios
• Store and Forward capability
• Supports a wide variety of modem speeds and bandwidths for
regulatory compliance in virtually all regions of the world
• Ethernet & serial interfaces—ideal for migration to IP networks
• Dual serial functionality (RS-232 and RS-485)
• Over-the-air reprogramming of remote units—no unnecessary
trips to radio sites
• Licensed 5-watt design, maximizes communications range with
low interference risk from other users
• Configurable via software as a Remote or an AP unit
• Low power “sleep mode”—ideal for battery-powered solar sites
• Virtual Radio Channels (VRC) support multiple polling applica-
tions on one radio
NOTE: Some features may not be available on all units, depending on the
options purchased and regulatory constraints for the region in which
the radio will operate.
Media Access Control (MAC)
Animportantfeature ofthetransceiverisMedia AccessControl(MAC).
The radio’s MAC is specifically designed for use with narrow band-
width, half duplex radio networks such as those commonly used in
licensed telemetry systems. When the MAC is enabled, it provides effi-
cient support of multiple data traffic models including multiple hosts,
synchronous and asynchronous polls, and report-by-exception (push
traffic). MAC ensures that every transceiver in the network has an equal
probability of gaining access to the radio channel when it has data to
send.
Coordination of
Channel Access The main objective of the MAC is to coordinate channel access for all
radios in the network, preventing data “collisions” that can occur with
simultaneous transmissions from radios on the same RF channel. With
MAC operation, a single radio is configured as an Access Point (AP)

MDS 05-4846A01, Rev. H SD Series Technical Manual 5
and other units are designated as Remotes. The AP serves as the con-
troller of the RF network. Remotes request permission from the AP to
usethe RFchannelbefore sendingpayloaddata,thusavoiding collisions
of data, and creating a highly reliable wireless network. The MAC is
responsible for allocating which unit gets access to the broadcast
medium (the RF channel), when, and for how long.
Data Validation Additionally,the MACvalidatesallmessages andpurges corrupted data
from the system. Successful delivery of data is ensured through the use
of retries and acknowledgements. Minimal overhead is used to accom-
plish these tasks, which translates to increased bandwidth efficiency of
the radio channel with minimal latency, ensuring that messages are
delivered in a timely manner.
VLAN Capability
A Virtual Local Area Network (VLAN) is essentially a limited broad-
cast domain, meaning that all members of a VLAN receive broadcast
frames sent by members of the same network, but not frames sent by
members of a different network.
The radio supports port-based VLAN at the Ethernet interface and over
the air, in accordance with the IEEE 802.1Q standard. When VLAN
Mode is enabled, the wireless ports of both AP and Remote radios act as
a “trunk port” to carry data.
Terminal Server Capability
The unit’s Terminal Server option allows serial port data to be sent over
the air in the form of IP packets. It works by encapsulating data from the
serial (COM1/COM2) ports as IP packets, thentransmitting it over the air.
At the receiving end, the data is decapsulated and delivered to the appro-
priate COM port. The Terminal Server option provides a front-end RTU
conversion for TCP MODBUS Data. See “Terminal Server COM1/2
Configuration” on Page 61 for more information.
Store and Forward Capability
Store and Forward (SAF) capability is only available in Packet w/MAC
mode. It allows a radio to store incoming data and retransmit it a short
time later to other stations. This can be used to link outlying Remote sta-
tionsto the APwhen directcommunicationis notpossible due toterrain,
distance, or other obstructions.
Communication routes are automatically discovered and traffic is intel-
ligently filtered such that only store and forward traffic is sent through
the SAF unit, conserving critical bandwidth in the network.

6 SD Series Technical Manual MDS 05-4846A01, Rev. H
Peer-to-Peer Capability
Peer to Peer capability is available in Packet w/MAC mode only. It
allows Remote radios in the same radio network to pass data directly
between each other. When the Peer-to-Peer functionality is enabled on
the Remote, both the Remote and the AP will be able to pass data in the
system. The AP will route data to and from the enabled peers without
disrupting AP-to-Remote specific communications.
Frequency Re-use (System ID)
FrequencyRe-use ispossible in someapplications.SysID (orSystemID
as it is referred to in the Device Manager) offers approximately 20 dB
of additional co-channel isolation when operating networks on the same
frequency (see Page 45 for detailed information). Note that proper
system design is required. SysID offers nine unique choices including
the default value of NONE. Master and Remote radios in the same net-
work must use the same value.
To use this feature, a network must consist of all SDx radios. This fea-
ture is applicable only on digital modems (B modems are excluded).
Note that this feature does not affect adjacent channel performance, but
only co-channel performance.
2.3 SD Model Offerings
The radio is offered in three model types, using one hardware platform:
•Ethernet (ES)—All SD features and functionality
•Standard (SS)—All SD features, except over-the-air Ethernet
data
•x710 (MS)—Direct, drop-in compatibility for networks using a
mix of SD and older MDS x710 radios
Model Number
Codes The unit’s model number is printed on the bottom label. Additional unit
details are available through the Device Manager, described later in this
manual.
2.4 Operating Modes and Applicable Manuals
In addition to the model offerings above, the radio may be configured to
operate in any of the following modes:

MDS 05-4846A01, Rev. H SD Series Technical Manual 7
Standard Modes
(Modes covered by
this manual)
•Packet Mode—Payload data from the radio’s serial and Ethernet
ports is assembled into packets and transmitted over the air.
Packet mode supports Ethernet Bridging, AES 128-bit encryp-
tion, and Virtual Radio Channels (VRC). This mode requires an
all-SD radio network.
•Packet w/MAC—This mode is similar to Packet Mode above,
but adds a Media Access Control (MAC) layer to the feature set.
The MAC provides robust collision avoidance, with an AP con-
trolling which unit can access the communication channel, and
when, for maximum efficiency of the radio channel. This mode
supports push traffic, data retry, Virtual Radio Channels (VRC),
AES 128-bit encryption, Peer-to-Peer, and Store and Forward
operation. This mode requires an all-SD radio network.
•Transparent Mode—This mode is over-the-air compatible with
MDS x710 transceivers, while supporting payload data encapsu-
lated in IP at the Ethernet port. This mode is ideal for mixed net-
works containing SD and older MDS x710 radios. It allows
currently deployed x710 networks to add support for Ethernet
data at either the Master or Remote radios. Note that Ethernet
Bridging is not supported in this mode.
TransparentModealsooffers AESEncryptionandaddedsecurity
for DLINK polling. DLINK Encryption is only available in
TransparentMode whenAESEncryption isenabled. Transparent
w/AES Encryption requires an all SD radio network.
x710 Mode:
Different Manual
Required
•x710 Mode—This mode provides direct, drop-in compatibility
with MDS x710 (4710 or 9710) transceivers, and uses the same
corecommand set astheseradios.It isdesignedfor useinsystems
containing a mix of SD radios and legacy MDS x710 units.
IMPORTANT: This manual does not cover x710 Mode opera-
tion. Refer instead to the following manuals for x710 instruc-
tions:
•Start-Up Guide (x710 Mode)— Part No. 05-4669A01
•Technical Manual (x710 Mode)—Part No. 05-4670A01
Invisible place holder
Figure 3. SD Transceivers offer compatibility with older MDS x710
Transceivers (left), and may be used for replacement and/or
interoperability in these networks. A retrofit kit is available for
connector conversion (see Table 1).

8 SD Series Technical Manual MDS 05-4846A01, Rev. H
2.5 Accessories and Spares
Table 1 lists common accessories and spare items for the transceiver.
GE MDS also offers an Accessories Selection Guide listing additional
items that may be used with the product. Visit www.gemds.com or contact
your factory representative to obtain a copy of the guide.
Protected Network Station
Thetransceiveris availablein aprotectednetwork configuration,known
as the SDxP (Figure 4), where xdenotes the particular model of SD
transceiver installed inside the chassis (i.e., SD1, 2, 4, 9, etc.).
The SDxP is a tabletop or rack-mount unit designed to hold two trans-
ceivers, two power supplies, and a switchover logic board that automat-
ically selects between transceiver A or B as the active unit. Manual
selection may also be made using a front panel switch.
Table 1. Accessories & Spare Items
Accessory Description Part Number
Retrofit Kit, Digital Contains adapters and connectors
needed to facilitate the replacement
of an existing MDS x710A/C/M
digital transceiver.
03-4696A01
Retrofit Kit, Analog Contains adapters and connectors
needed to facilitate the replacement
of an existing MDS x710A/C/M
analog transceiver.
03-4697A01
DC Power Plug,
2-pin, polarized Mateswithpowerconnectoronradio case. Screw terminals provided for
wires, threaded locking screws to
prevent accidental disconnect.
73-1194A53
Setup Guide
(for Packet and
Transparent Modes)
Describes the installation and setup
of the transceiver. A companion to
this Technical Manual.
05-4847A01
Flat Mounting
Bracket Kit Brackets that attach to the bottom of the unit. Used for mounting to a flat
mounting surface. Fits the mounting
footprint of MDS x710 transceivers.
03-4123A14
DIN Rail Mounting
Bracket Kit Contains bracket for mounting the transceiver to standard 35 mm DIN
rails commonly used in equipment
cabinets and panels.
03-4125A04

MDS 05-4846A01, Rev. H SD Series Technical Manual 9
Invisible place holder
Figure 4. Protected Network Station
With two transceivers and two power supplies installed, the unit con-
tinues to communicate even if a failure occurs in one of the transceivers,
or its associated power supply. This capability is important in critical
applications where uninterrupted service is required. Refer to publica-
tion 05-4161A01 for detailed information on this product.
Dual Protected Configurations
Two dual transceiver configurations are offered for the SD Series. They
are known as the SDxDT and the SDxDP. These configurations are used
for the following purposes:
• When full duplex operation is desired using dedicated Transmit
and Receive transceivers.
• When a Master or Repeater site requires bandpass duplexers due
to the presence of co-located antennas.
• When streaming Repeater operation is desired using dedicated
Transmit and Receive transceivers
To improve performance in networks that require the use of the modem
speed being faster than the baud rate, increase the Data Key Hold Time-out
parameter which prevents frequent key-up key-down sequences
between character times. This parameter can be adjusted between 1 and
10 characters. See Data Key Hold Time-out on Page 54 for a complete
description.
SDxDT
Configuration The SDxDT uses a similar chassis as the SDxP described above. How-
ever, one radio is configured with the transmit frequency and the other
for the receive frequency, with appropriate connections between them.
It also includes a bandpass duplexer tuned to a specific frequency for
simultaneous transmission and reception (full duplex) operation. Note
that the SDxDT provides one serial port and one Ethernet port for user
equipment.

10 SD Series Technical Manual MDS 05-4846A01, Rev. H
SDxDP
Configuration The SDxDP is a protected, full duplex Master or Repeater site configu-
ration. This consists of two SDxP chassis described earlier, with appro-
priate interconnect cabling between the units. The radios in one SDxP
areconfigured withthe transmitfrequency andthe radiosin the otherare
configured with the receive frequency. The SDxDP also includes a
bandpass duplexer tuned to a specific frequency for simultaneous trans-
mission and reception (full duplex) operation.

MDS 05-4846A01, Rev. H SD Series Technical Manual 11
3.0 TYPICAL APPLICATIONS
This section describes common scenarios the transceiver may be used
in.A number ofvariationsare possible;Ifyou have uniquerequirements
not found here, it is recommended that you consult a support specialist
at GE MDS. Contact information is provided at the back of this manual.
3.1 Operating Parameters
The transceiver can operate in both poll-response and “push” communi-
cation/report-by-exception networks. In poll-response networks a cen-
tral Master unit communicates with a number of Remote radios one at a
time. The Master exchanges data with the currently-connected Remote,
and when finished, it establishes a new connection with the next Remote
in the polling order. In push communication/Report by Exception net-
works, a Remote can also transmit if it has data to send, typically
prompted by a change in status conditions from connected data equip-
ment.
The radio includes a number of parameters which may be set to suit the
requirements of a particular application. Table 2 provides a summary of
common applications, protocols, and radio modes used. Refer to the
table to determine what applications can be supported and the required
radio mode settings.
Table 2. Application Types vs. Key Radio Settings
Application Protocol
(Example) Recommended Radio Mode Notes
Polled Bridged Ethernet MODBUS TCP Packet w/MAC MayalsousePacketmodeand enableLBT
with Listen on RX.
Bridged Ethernet IP(ICMP/TCP/UDP/
MODBUS TCP) Packet w/MAC Mayalso usePacket modeandenable LBT with Listen on RX.
Mixed Serial and Bridged
Ethernet MODBUS RTU & IP Packet w/MAC May also use Packet mode with Multihost feature enabled.
Report by Exception Serial and/or IP Packet w/MAC
Single Poll Multiple
Response Serial and/or IP Packet w/MAC
Two or more concurrent
serial polling applications
(COM2, COM1, and /or
IP Payload at master
DNP3 and Modbus
RTU Packet w/MAC May also use Packet mode with Multihost feature enabled.
Single Port Serial Polling
withencryption(COM2or
COM1)
Modbus RTU Packet
Transparent AES On AES On
Single Port Serial Polling
without encryption
(COM2, COM1, or IP
Payload at master)
Modbus RTU Packet
Transparent AES Off AES Off

12 SD Series Technical Manual MDS 05-4846A01, Rev. H
3.2 Example Systems
The following sections describe common system arrangements for the
transceiver. Other variations are possible, and if you have questions
about a specific application not covered here, you may contact your fac-
tory representative using the information at the back of this guide. For
typical radio settings in these systems, refer to Table 2 on Page 11.
Multiple Address Systems (MAS)
This is a common application for the transceiver. It consists of a central
Master unit and several associated Remote units as shown in Figure 5.
An MAS network provides communication between a central host com-
puter and remote terminal units (RTUs) or other data collection devices
in the field. Often, such a system is used to carry telemetry data to and
from widely separated remote radios.
Typical MAS applications may be for automatic, remote monitoring of
gas wells, water tank levels, electric power distribution systems, and
similar control and measurement functions.
Invisible place holder
Figure 5. Typical MAS Point-to-Multipoint Network
Point-to-Point System
Where permitted, the transceiver may also be used in a point-to-point
arrangement. A point-to-point system consists of just two radios—one
Master and one Remote (see Figure 6). It provides a simplex (or
half-duplex) and a duplex communications link for the transfer of data
between two locations.
RTU
MASTER STATION
REMOTE RADIO
REMOTE RADIO
RTU
HOST SYSTEM
OR: SDA-Augmented
Master Station
RTU
REMOTE RADIO
RTU
REMOTE RADIO