GE MDS entraNET 900 User manual

Technical Manual
05-4055A01, Rev. E
JANUARY 2011
900 MHz and 2400 MHz
Extended Range IP Networking Transceivers
Firmware Code 3.0
MDS entraNET™900
MDS entraNET™2400
Remote
Access Point

Quick Start Instructions
Listed below are the basic steps for installing GE MDS entraNET transceivers. Refer to the
appropriate sections in the manual for detailed information.
1. Initial Checkout
• Set the equipment up in a tabletop arrangement as described in 2 TABLETOP SETUP AND
EVALUATION,(beginning on Page 15).
• Follow all steps to ensure proper cable connections and unit configuration. As a minimum, Access
Points must have the following programmed: IP Address, IP Network identifier, and Radio Network
Address. (RF output power and Password should also be reviewed and set if necessary.) Remote
radios normally require only a Radio Network Address to be set. (Note: The Remote Radio Net-
work Address must match that of the AP.)
• Connect data equipment to the transceivers. Use LAN/ETH ports for Ethernet systems, or COM2
ports for Serial data systems.
• Verify proper exchange of data communications by viewing the LEDs. The following indications
should be seen on the LED panel within 30 seconds of startup:

PWR—Lit continuously
LINK—Lit continuously
ETH—Lit continuously (unless Sleep is activated)
COM2—Blinking to indicate exchange of data communications
2. Endpoint Connectivity (PING) Test—for Ethernet Systems Only
• For Ethernet systems, verify the link integrity between the Access Point and endpoint devices con-
nected to Remotes by issuing a PING command from the AP. Below is a basic setup diagram for
the PING test. (NOTE: Endpoint devices must have a compatible IP address for this test to work.)
COM1
ETH PWR
LINK
LAN
PORT
PC RUNNING PING UTILITY ACCESS POINT ETHERNET REMOTE
ETH
PORT
ETHERNET ENDPOINT
(Device Being Pinged)
STRAIGHT THROUGH
CABLE
CROSS-OVER
CABLE
LAN COM1 COM2 PWR LINK
Invisible place holder
3. Set Configuration of AP and Remote Radios
• Refer to 3 AP MANAGEMENT beginning on Page 29 for details on connecting to the AP and
using the built-in menu system. Refer to 4 REMOTE RADIO MANAGEMENT beginning on
Page 99 for details on programming Remotes.
• If you have a large number of radios to configure, a configuration script may be used to speed the
process. See USING CONFIGURATION SCRIPTS beginning on Page 181 for details.
4. Install the Equipment in the Field
• Refer to 6 INSTALLATION beginning on Page 147 for details on site selection, mounting, cabling,
and antenna/feedline recommendations.
• After basic installation, optimize the performance of the radio network following the recommenda-
tions beginning on Page 160.

05-4055A01, Rev. E MDS entraNET Technical Manual i
TABLE OF CONTENTS
1 INTRODUCING THE 
MDS entraNET SYSTEM . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
1.1 ABOUT THIS MANUAL ........................................................................................................3
1.1.1 Supplemental Information Online ...............................................................................................3
1.2 PRODUCT DESCRIPTION................................................................................................... 3
1.2.1 Model Offerings ..........................................................................................................................6
1.3 APPLICATIONS.................................................................................................................... 6
1.3.1 Long-Range Wireless LAN .........................................................................................................6
Antenna Placement..........................................................................................................................6
Communication Rules......................................................................................................................6
1.3.2 Combining Serial and Ethernet Devices .....................................................................................7
1.3.3 DNP3 Protocol-Aware Networks ................................................................................................8
1.3.4 Upgrading an Older Wireless Network with 
Serial Interfaces ....................................................................................................................................9
Replacing Legacy Wireless Products ..............................................................................................9
Supplementing a Legacy Wireless Network with IP Services..........................................................9
1.3.5 P22 Protected Network (Redundant) Configuration ...................................................................9
1.4 GE MDS SECURITY SUITE............................................................................................... 10
1.4.1 Intrusion Detection via SNMP Traps ........................................................................................11
1.5 ACCESSORIES.................................................................................................................. 12

2 TABLETOP SETUP AND 
EVALUATION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
2.1 INTRODUCTION ................................................................................................................ 17
2.2 CONNECTOR OVERVIEW ................................................................................................ 17
2.3 TEST SETUP...................................................................................................................... 18
STEP 1—CONNECT THE ANTENNA PORTS .............................................................................19
STEP 2—MEASURE AND CONNECT DC POWER.....................................................................19
STEP 3—CONFIGURE THE AP ...................................................................................................22
Log-in and Configuration................................................................................................................22

ii MDS entraNET Technical Manual 05-4055A01, Rev. E
Set Key AP Parameters.................................................................................................................23
STEP 4—CONFIGURE THE REMOTE RADIO ............................................................................24
Log-in and Configuration................................................................................................................24
Set or Verify Network Address.......................................................................................................25
STEP 5—CONNECT TERMINAL EQUIPMENT............................................................................26
Ethernet Device Connection to Remote.........................................................................................26
Serial Device Connection to Remote.............................................................................................26
STEP 6—CHECK FOR NORMAL OPERATION ...........................................................................26
2.3.1 Verify Connectivity (PING command) .......................................................................................27
Serial Connections.........................................................................................................................27

3 AP MANAGEMENT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
3.1 INTRODUCTION ................................................................................................................ 31
3.1.1 PC-Based Configuration Software ............................................................................................31
3.1.2 Menu Structure .........................................................................................................................32
3.1.3 Differences in the User Interfaces ............................................................................................35
3.2 ACCESSING THE MENU SYSTEM................................................................................... 36
3.2.1 Methods of Control ...................................................................................................................36
3.2.2 PC Connection and Log-In Procedures ....................................................................................37
3.2.3 Navigating the Menus ...............................................................................................................42
Navigating via Terminal or Telnet Sessions
Recommended for first-time users.................................................................................................42
Navigating via a Web Browser.......................................................................................................42
3.3 BASIC DEVICE INFORMATION......................................................................................... 43
3.3.1 Starting Information Screen ......................................................................................................43
3.3.2 Main Menu ................................................................................................................................44
3.4 CONFIGURING NETWORK PARAMETERS ..................................................................... 45
3.4.1 Network Configuration Menu ....................................................................................................45
3.4.2 IP Configuration Menu ..............................................................................................................46
3.4.3 Wireless MAC Configuration Menu ..........................................................................................48
3.4.4 Mobility Configuration Menu .....................................................................................................49
3.4.5 SNMP Agent Configuration Menu ............................................................................................50
3.4.6 Bridge Configuration Menu .......................................................................................................51
3.5 CONFIGURING RADIO PARAMETERS ............................................................................ 52
3.5.1 Radio Configuration Menu ........................................................................................................52
Skip Zones Menu...........................................................................................................................53
3.6 CONFIGURING THE SERIAL INTERFACES..................................................................... 54
3.6.1 Overview ..................................................................................................................................54
Serial-to-Serial Services ................................................................................................................55

05-4055A01, Rev. E MDS entraNET Technical Manual iii
IP-to-Serial Services......................................................................................................................55
Configuration..................................................................................................................................56
Serial Configuration Wizard...........................................................................................................56
3.6.2 Local Serial Configuration Menu ..............................................................................................57
View Current Settings Screen—Serial-to-Serial Example .............................................................59
View Current Settings Screen—Unicast UDP Mode Example.......................................................61
3.6.3 Remote Serial Gateway Configuration (IP-to-Remote Serial) ..................................................62
3.7 SECURITY CONFIGURATION........................................................................................... 64
3.7.1 Security Configuration Menu ....................................................................................................65
3.8 WIRELESS NETWORK MENU .......................................................................................... 69
3.8.1 Remote Management Submenu ..............................................................................................70
Manage Selected Remote Submenu
.......................................................................................................................................................71
Broadcast Remote Reprogramming Menu
.......................................................................................................................................................72
Remote Database Menu................................................................................................................74
Group Database Menu...................................................................................................................75
Endpoint Database Menu ..............................................................................................................75
Access Point Database Menu........................................................................................................76
3.9 STATISTICS AND EVENT LOG ......................................................................................... 77
3.9.1 COM1 and COM2 Data Statistics Menus ................................................................................78
3.9.2 Remote Serial Gateway Statistics ............................................................................................79
3.9.3 Ethernet and Wireless Packet Statistics ...................................................................................80
Ethernet Packet Statistics ..............................................................................................................80
Wireless Packet Statistics..............................................................................................................80
3.9.4 Radio Packet Statistics .............................................................................................................81
3.9.5 Event Log Menu .......................................................................................................................82
Time and Date Stamping................................................................................................................82
3.10 DEVICE INFORMATION MENU....................................................................................... 84
Device Names Menu......................................................................................................................85
3.11 MAINTENANCE AND TOOLS.......................................................................................... 85
3.11.1 Reprogramming Menu ...........................................................................................................86
3.11.2 Configuration Scripts Menu ...................................................................................................87
A Brief Description of Configuration Files ......................................................................................87
3.11.3 RSG Configuration Script Menu ............................................................................................89
3.11.4 Authorization Codes Menu ....................................................................................................91
3.11.5 Transmitter Test Menu ...........................................................................................................92
3.12 REDUNDANCY MENU..................................................................................................... 93
Packet Rx Errors Exceeded Threshold Menu................................................................................96
3.13 DNP3 ROUTING MENU................................................................................................... 97

iv MDS entraNET Technical Manual 05-4055A01, Rev. E

4 REMOTE RADIO MANAGEMENT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 99
4.1 INTRODUCTION ..............................................................................................................101
4.2 Programming Methods......................................................................................................101
4.2.1 Terminal Interface Mode .........................................................................................................101
4.2.2 Remote Management via the AP ...........................................................................................101
4.3 Log-in Procedure .............................................................................................................. 101
4.4 Commands........................................................................................................................ 102
4.4.1 Entering Remote Commands .................................................................................................102
4.5 Minimum Configuration for Remotes ................................................................................ 102
4.5.1 Detailed Command Descriptions ............................................................................................103
4.6 UPGRADING REMOTE FIRMWARE ................................................................................117

5 SAMPLE CONFIGURATIONS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 119
5.1 INTRODUCTION ..............................................................................................................121
5.2 IP-to-Local Serial Application Example............................................................................. 121
Establishing a Connection ...........................................................................................................121
5.3 IP-to-Remote Serial Application Example.........................................................................122
5.3.1 Endpoint Device Connected to the AP ...................................................................................123
5.4 Point-to-Point, Serial-to-Serial Application Example......................................................... 123
5.4.1 Step-by-step Instructions for Configuring a Point-to-Point Serial Connection ........................124
5.5 Point-to-Multipoint, Serial-to-Serial Application Example.................................................. 132
5.5.1 Step-by-Step Instructions for Configuring a Point-to-Multipoint Serial Connection ................133
5.6 Mixed-Mode Application Example..................................................................................... 140
5.6.1 Operation and Data Flow ........................................................................................................140
5.7 Group Broadcast Session Example.................................................................................. 142
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05-4055A01, Rev. E MDS entraNET Technical Manual v
6 INSTALLATION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 147
6.1 INSTALLATION................................................................................................................. 149
6.1.1 General Requirements ...........................................................................................................149
6.1.2 Site Selection .........................................................................................................................149
6.1.3 Conducting a Site Survey .......................................................................................................150
Terrain and Signal Strength..........................................................................................................150
A Word About Radio Interference................................................................................................150
Mounting Dimensions for Radios.................................................................................................152
6.1.4 Antenna and Feedline Selection ............................................................................................153
Antennas......................................................................................................................................153
Feedlines .....................................................................................................................................154
6.2 HOW MUCH OUTPUT POWER CAN BE USED?
(U.S.A. and Canada, 900 MHz systems).................................................................................. 156
6.2.1 Calculating System Gain ........................................................................................................156
6.3 HOW MUCH OUTPUT POWER CAN BE USED?
(U.S.A. and Canada, 2400 MHz systems)................................................................................ 157
6.3.1 Calculating System Gain ........................................................................................................157
6.4 HOW MUCH OUTPUT POWER CAN BE USED? (ETSI 2400 MHz systems)................. 158
6.4.1 Calculating System Gain ........................................................................................................159
6.5 OPTIMIZING PERFORMANCE........................................................................................ 160
6.5.1 Principles of Wireless Network Operation ..............................................................................160
6.5.2 Aiming Directive Antennas for Maximum RSSI ......................................................................162
Procedure ....................................................................................................................................162
6.5.3 Tips for Improving Data Throughput .......................................................................................163
To Maximize Throughput of Data and Reduce Latency Time ......................................................163
To Maximize Overall Data Performance ......................................................................................164

7 TROUBLESHOOTING AND RADIO TESTS . . . . . 165
7.1 TROUBLESHOOTING...................................................................................................... 167
7.1.1 Interpreting the Front Panel LEDs ..........................................................................................167
7.1.2 Troubleshooting Using the Embedded Management System ................................................168
Serial Port and Remote Serial Statistics Menu ............................................................................171
Diagnostic Tools...........................................................................................................................171
7.1.3 Using Logged Operation Events .............................................................................................172


vi MDS entraNET Technical Manual 05-4055A01, Rev. E
8 TECHNICAL REFERENCE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 177
8.1 UPGRADING AP FIRMWARE..........................................................................................179
8.2 USING CONFIGURATION SCRIPTS............................................................................... 181
Sample of an Exported Configuration File...................................................................................182
Editing Configuration Files...........................................................................................................186
8.3 DATA INTERFACE CONNECTORS................................................................................. 187
8.3.1 LAN/ETH Port .........................................................................................................................187
8.3.2 COM1 Port .............................................................................................................................188
8.3.3 COM2 Port .............................................................................................................................189
8.4 TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS....................................................................................... 189
8.5 dBm-WATTS-VOLTS CONVERSION CHART.................................................................. 193

9 TERMS AND ABBREVIATIONS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 195
Copyright Notice
This publication is protected by U.S.A. copyright law. Copyright 2011, GE MDS. All rights reserved.
ISO 9001 Registration
GE MDS adheres to the internationally-accepted ISO 9001 quality system standard.
Related Materials on the Internet
Data sheets, frequently asked questions, application notes, information on firmware upgrades, and other valuable
information can be found on the GE MDS Web site at www.gemds.com.
About GE MDS
Over two decades ago, GE MDS began building radios for business-critical applications. Since then, we’ve installed
more than 500,000 radios in over 110 countries. To succeed, we overcame impassable terrain, brutal operating condi-
tions and disparate, complex network configurations. We also became experts in wireless communication standards
and system applications worldwide. The result of our efforts is that today, thousands of utilities around the world rely
on GE MDS-based wireless networks to manage their most critical assets.
The majority of GE MDS radios deployed since 1985 are still installed and performing within our customers' wireless
networks. That’s because we design and manufacture our products in-house, according to ISO 9001 which allows us
to control and meet stringent global quality standards.
Thanks to our durable products and comprehensive solutions, GE MDS is the wireless leader in industrial automa-
tion—including oil and gas production and transportation, water/wastewater treatment, supply and transportation,
electric transmission and distribution and many other utility applications. GE MDS is also at the forefront of wireless
communications for private and public infrastructure and online transaction processing. Now is an exciting time for
GE MDS and our customers as we look forward to further demonstrating our abilities in new and emerging markets.
As your wireless needs change you can continue to expect more from GE MDS. We'll always put the performance of
your network above all. Visit us at www.gemds.com for more information.

05-4055A01, Rev. E MDS entraNET Technical Manual vii
OPERATIONAL & SAFETY NOTICES
RF Exposure
U.S. Installations: Professional installation required. The radio equipment
described in this guide emits radio frequency energy. Although the power level is
low, the concentrated energy from a directional antenna may pose a health hazard.
For 900 MHz units, do not allow people to come closer than 23 cm (9 inches) to
the antenna. For 2.4 GHz units, do not allow people to come closer than 5 cm (2
inches) to the antenna. These distances apply whether the transmitter is operated
in indoor or outdoor environments. More information on RF exposure is available
on the Internet at www.fcc.gov/oet/info/documents/bulletins.
ETSI Installations: In regions where the European Telecommunications Stan-
dards Institute (ETSI) standards apply, 2.4 GHz units with a maximum output
power of 100 mW EIRP are supplied. Do not allow people to come closer than 2.2
cm (1 inch) to the antenna.
CSA/US Notice
The transceiver has been recognized for use in hazardous locations by the Canadian Standards Association
(CSA), which also issues the U.S. mark of approval. The CSA Certification is in accordance with CSA STD
C22.2 No. 213-M1987.
FCC Part 15 Notice
The transceiver complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. 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 inter-
ference that may cause undesired operation. This device is specifically designed to be used under Section 15.247 of
the FCC Rules and Regulations. Any unauthorized modification or changes to this device without the expressapproval
of GE MDS 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.
Manual Revision and Accuracy
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 additional questions or need an
exact specification for a product, please contact our 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.gemds.com.
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 substances contained within. To avoid dissem-
ination of these substances into our environment, and to limit 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 GE MDS or your supplier for more information on the proper disposal
of this equipment.
BatteryDisposal–This productmay containabattery.Batteriesmust bedisposed of properly, and may not be disposed
of as unsorted municipal waste in the European Union. See the product documentation 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. For more information see:
www.weeerohsinfo.com.

LAN COM1 COM2 PWR LINK
viii MDS entraNET Technical Manual 05-4055A01, Rev. E

05-4055A01, Rev. E MDS entraNET Technical Manual 1
1INTRODUCING THE
MDS entraNET SYSTEM
1 Chapter Counter Reset Paragraph
1.1 ABOUT THIS MANUAL 3
1.1.1 Supplemental Information Online ..................................................3
1.2 PRODUCT DESCRIPTION 3
1.2.1 Model Offerings .............................................................................6
1.3 APPLICATIONS 6
1.3.1 Long-Range Wireless LAN ............................................................6
Antenna Placement ............................................................................6
Communication Rules ........................................................................6
1.3.2 Combining Serial and Ethernet Devices .......................................7
1.3.3 DNP3 Protocol-Aware Networks ...................................................8
1.3.4 Upgrading an Older Wireless Network with
Serial Interfaces .......................................................................................9
Replacing Legacy Wireless Products.................................................9
Supplementing a Legacy Wireless Network with IP Services ............9
1.3.5 P22 Protected Network (Redundant) Configuration ......................9
1.4 GE MDS SECURITY SUITE 10
1.4.1 Intrusion Detection via SNMP Traps ...........................................11
1.5 ACCESSORIES 12
LAN COM1 COM2 PWR LINK

2 MDS entraNET Technical Manual 05-4055A01, Rev. E
LAN COM1 COM2 PWR LINK

05-4055A01, Rev. E MDS entraNET Technical Manual 3
1.1 ABOUT THIS MANUAL
This guide provides installation and operating instructions for the MDS
entraNET 900TM and MDS entraNET 2400TM series radio system. The
guide is intended for use by those who install, configure, and operate the
entraNET wireless network.
Quick Start instructions are provided on the inside front cover of this
guide. They provide the basic steps for installing and operating the
transceivers, but do not cover all of the configurable parameters. The
main section of this guide contains complete information on menu
functions,aswellasdetailedinstallation,operation,andtroubleshooting
information. This guide is arranged into the following eight chapters:
• Chapter 1—Introducing the MDS entraNET System (Page 1)
• Chapter 2—Tabletop Setup and Evaluation (Page 15)
• Chapter 3—Access Point (AP) Management (Page 29)
• Chapter 4—Remote Radio Management (Page 99)
• Chapter 5—Sample Configurations (Page 119)
• Chapter 6—Installation (Page 147)
• Chapter 7—Troubleshooting and Radio Tests (Page 165)
• Chapter 8—Technical Reference (Page 177)
• Chapter 9—Terms and Abbreviations (Page 195). Terms
defined in Chapter 9 are italicized on first appearance.
1.1.1 Supplemental Information Online
Release notes, manual updates, and other supplemental materials are
available online for many GE MDS products. For more information,
visit us at online at www.gemds.com.
1.2 PRODUCT DESCRIPTION
The entraNET system is an easy-to-install wireless solution supporting
long-range serial and Ethernet data transmission at speeds up to
106 kbps. The system includes an Access Point (AP) transceiver and a
Remote transceiver capable of serial and Ethernet communication.
These radios serve a variety of network configurations. Figure 1-1
shows the two radios.

4 MDS entraNET Technical Manual 05-4055A01, Rev. E
Invisible place holder
Figure 1-1. MDS entraNET Transceiver Models
Robust Radio
Operation MDS entraNET transceivers use an advanced Media Access Controller
(MAC) to ensure network access for stations with data to send. The
MAC permits data to be sent from endpoint devices on an on-demand
basis, preventing over-the-air data collisions and ensuring that data gets
through as intended. MAC functionality eliminates the need for active
polling of Remotes, an important requirement in Report-by-Exception
(RBE) applications.
Rugged Packaging MDS entraNET radios are housed in compact and rugged die-cast cases
that need only be protected from direct exposure to the weather. The
transceiversare suppliedwithflatsurface-mountingbracketsoroptional
35 mm DIN rail brackets, depending on customer requirements.
Simple Installation Basic installation typically employs an omni-directional antenna at the
AP site and a directional antenna at each associated Remote site. The
antenna is a vital link in the system and must be chosen and installed
correctly. INSTALLATION PLANNING on Page 149 provides guidance
on choosing proper antennas and installation sites.
Toestablishbasic service, connectan antenna, connectanEthernetLAN
(Local Area Network) to the AP, connect a serial or Ethernet device to
the Remotes, apply power, set a few operating parameters using a
personal computer, and you are done. No license is required for
operation in the U.S.A., Canada, and many other countries. Check the
regulations in your country before placing the radios on the air.
GE MDS Security
Suite Network security is a vital issue in today’s wireless world. The
MDS entraNET system provides multiple tools to help you build a
network that minimizes the risk of eavesdropping or unauthorized
access. Some security features are inherent to radio operation, such as
the use of spread-spectrum transmission. Other techniques are built into
Access Point
Remote

05-4055A01, Rev. E MDS entraNET Technical Manual 5
the radio firmware, including data encryption, enabling or disabling
remote access channels, and password protection.
Security is not a one-step process that can be simply turned on and
forgotten. It must be practiced and enforced at multiple levels, every
day. Section 1.4 contains additional information about entraNET
security features.
License-Free
Operation The transceivers are designed for frequency-hopping spread-spectrum
operation in the license-free 900 MHz or 2400 MHz band. They can
provide reliable long distance communications over line-of-sight signal
paths.
Multiple Services Networks can include a mixture of equipment requiring Ethernet and
serial data interfaces on the same cell or AP. This flexibility allows the
transceiver to provide services in data networks that are on a migration
path from legacy serial or EIA-232-based hardware to faster and more
easily interfaced Ethernet systems.
Flexible
Management Configuration, troubleshooting and other management activities are
performed using a connected PC, locally or remotely. Modes of access
include a local RS-232 console, local or remote IP access through
Ethernet, Telnet, or a Web browser, and Simple Network Management
Protocol (SNMP).
Feature Summary The MDS entraNET design makes installation and configuration an
easy task, while allowing for configuration changes in the future.
• Long-range transmission over favorable, unobstructed terrain, with
sufficient antenna heights
• Low power consumption—Sleep and Shutdown modes to enable
solar-powered operation
• Repeater configurations—A repeater scheme can be established to
extend the transmission range or to work around obstructions in a
network. This is accomplished by connecting two radios back to
back at a single site.
• Industrial-grade product—Extended temperature range for
trouble-free operation in extreme environments
• Robust radio communications—Designed to perform in
high-interference environments
• GE MDS Security Suite—Blocks common attack schemes and
prevents “rogue” hardware from gaining access to or control of a
network. Common attack events are logged and reported using
alarms.
• Fast, 106 kbps data speed—Ten times faster than 9.6 kbps radios
• Simple setup—Ethernet bridge configuration option requires
minimal setup
• Serial ports—Gateway for serial interface equipment to IP or
Ethernet networks with an embedded terminal server

6 MDS entraNET Technical Manual 05-4055A01, Rev. E
1.2.1 Model Offerings
The MDS entraNET system includes two primary radio types— APs
and Remotes. Table 1-1 summarizes the interface capabilities for each
entraNET radio type.
NOTE: A Remote can serve multiple endpoint MAC addresses if the
Remote is provided an authorization code.
1.3 APPLICATIONS
The following sections describe typical entraNET installations. All
installations should be reviewed by a network manager to ensure proper
integration with existing equipment.
1.3.1 Long-Range Wireless LAN
The wireless LAN is a common application of the entraNET system. It
consists of a central control station (AP) and one or more associated
Remote radios, as shown in Figure 1-2 on Page 7. A LAN provides
communications between a central LAN/WAN and remote Ethernet
endpoints. Remote radios can support multiple Ethernetendpoints if the
Remote is provided an authorization code.
The operation of the radio system is transparent to the computer
equipment connected to it. As such, the system behaves just as it would
in a hardwired arrangement, with respect to data format and integrity.
Over-the-air messages are exchanged at the Ethernet level, including all
types of IP traffic.
Antenna Placement
The AP antenna is positioned at a location from which it can reliably
communicate with all of the Remote radios in the system. Commonly,
this is a relatively high location on top of a building, communications
tower or other elevated point.
Communication Rules
• A Remote transceiver can only talk over-the-air to an AP.
• Peer-to-peer communications between Remotes can take place
indirectly through the AP.
Table 1-1. MDS entraNET Models and Data Interface Services
Model LAN/ETH COM1*COM2
AP LAN Yes Yes
Remote ETH Yes Yes
NOTES
*This connector provides access to the radio menu system.

05-4055A01, Rev. E MDS entraNET Technical Manual 7
• An AP can only talk over-the-air to Remote radios; however, two
APs can communicate with each other through their Ethernet
connectors when a wired LAN/WAN is utilized.
Invisible place holder
Figure 1-2. Typical Wireless LAN System
1.3.2 Combining Serial and Ethernet Devices
Prior to the introduction of the entraNET series, multiple networks were
often needed to service different types of communication protocols. An
entraNET system provides this functionality through a single AP radio.
Each of the Remote radios in a system can be connected via IP to
differentSCADA or telemetry hosts,transportingdifferent(orthesame)
protocols. Both data streams are completely independent, and the
transceiver provides seamless, simultaneous operation, as shown in
Figure 1-3.
Invisible place holder
Figure 1-3. Multiple Protocol Network
Remote
Remote
Access Point
Remote
Remote
WAN/LAN
Ethernet
Device
Ethernet
Device
LINK ETH COM1 PWR
LINK ETH COM1 PWR
Ethernet
Device
LINK ETH COM1 PWR
LINK ETH COM1 PWR
Ethernet
Device
LAN COM1 COM2 PWR LINK
PC Running
NetView SCADA Host
Total Flow
Access Point
Remote
SCADA Host
Modbus/IP
Se ial Polling
Conve te
Remote
Remote
RTU
EIA-232
EIA-232
TCP/IP
C
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M
2P
W
R
L
I
N
KC
O
M
1
C
O
M
2P
W
R
L
I
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KC
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1
C
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2P
W
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8 MDS entraNET Technical Manual 05-4055A01, Rev. E
By using a single AP, the cost of infrastructure deployment is cut in half,
with only one antenna, one feedline, and one lightning protector
required. Other cost reductions come from the system as a whole,
including reduced management requirements when using GE
MDS NETview Management System (MS) software. In addition,
entraNET offers nearly unlimited potential for future applications that
run over IP and Ethernet services.
Inan IP-to-serialscenario, every Remote is sent informationreceivedby
the AP Ethernet port. Likewise, information received at the Remote
serial port is transmitted to the AP, and the AP delivers this information
through its Ethernet port in the form of an IP packet.
Additionally, the AP serial port can be used as a virtual Remote. This
means that encapsulated serial information received by the AP is sent
out the serial port of all Remotes as well as the AP serial port. The
reverse is also true, meaning that data received by the serial port of any
Remote or the AP serial port is encapsulated and sent out the AP
Ethernet port.
This arrangement can be used to connect an endpoint device at a
Repeater site without the need for an additional Remote radio.
1.3.3 DNP3 Protocol-Aware Networks
The GE MDS implementation of Distributed Network Protocol 3
(DNP3) allows the transfer and routing of DNP3 messages between
serial devices, while also supporting the conversion to an IP Ethernet
network. As DNP3 messages are routed through the system, the APs
“learn” the locations of all end devices, regardless of whether they are
configured for serial or Ethernet communication, eliminating the need
to configure their individual locations.
DNP3 devices with an Ethernet or IP interface can be connected to a
transceiver in one of two ways:
• To the Ethernet port of an AP radio
• To the Ethernet port of a Remote radio
DNP3 devices with a serial RS-232 interface can be connected to a
transceiver in one of two ways:
• To the serial port of an AP radio
• To the serial port of a Remote radio
The capability for DNP3 message routing isoptional for the transceiver.
An Authorization Key is required to enable this functionality, and is
available for purchase from GE MDS.

05-4055A01, Rev. E MDS entraNET Technical Manual 9
NOTE: Detailed information on the DNP3 protocol is available on the
DNP Users’ Group Web site at www.dnp.org.
1.3.4 Upgrading an Older Wireless Network with
Serial Interfaces
Millions of wireless data products have been sold in the last twodecades
for licensed and license-free operation, many of them manufactured by
GE MDS. There are several ways that these systems can benefit from
employingMDSentraNETwirelessequipment,includingflexibleserial
and Ethernet interfaces, higher data throughput, and ease of installation.
MDS entraNET radios are well suited to replace leased lines, dial-up
lines, or existing data radios by taking advantage of the built-in serial
and Ethernet interfaces on the transceiver. The sections below discuss
two common scenarios.
Replacing Legacy Wireless Products
In most cases, legacy radio transceivers supporting serial interface
equipment can be replaced with MDS entraNET radios with little or no
special configuration. This equipment can be connected to MDS
entraNET radios through the COM1 orCOM2 port with a DB-25 to RJ-45
cable wired for EIA-232 signaling. The COM2 port supports standard
EIA-232 signaling and acts as a data communications equipment (DCE)
device.
NOTE: Several previous GE MDS-brand products contained signal
lines on their interface connectors that are not used or required
on entraNET radios. Consult the equipment manual(s) for
interface pinout information, and connect only the required
pins.
Supplementing a Legacy Wireless Network with IP Services
MDS entraNET Remotes support most polled protocols. The serial
interfaces encapsulate serial data in two differentmodes: connectionless
(User Datagram Protocol, or UDP) and connection-oriented
(Transmission Control Protocol, or TCP).
For complete details on serial gateway interface modes, see
“CONFIGURING THE SERIAL INTERFACES” on Page 54.
1.3.5 P22 Protected Network (Redundant)
Configuration
Formission-criticalapplications,GEMDSofferstheProtectedNetwork
Station. This radio incorporates two entraNET AP transceivers, two
power supplies, and a switchover logic board that automatically selects
between Transceiver A and Transceiver B asthe active radio.Figure 1-4

10 MDS entraNET Technical Manual 05-4055A01, Rev. E
shows a view of the protected chassis. For system-level information on
this product, see GE MDS publication 05-4161A01.
Invisible place holder
Figure 1-4. GE MDS P22 Protected Network Station
(incorporates two MDS entraNET APs)
1.4 GE MDS SECURITY SUITE
Today, the operation and management of an enterprise is becoming
increasingly dependent on electronic information flow. An
accompanying concern becomes the security of the communication
infrastructure and the security of the data itself.
The MDS entraNET is capable of dealing with many common security
issues. Table 1-2 profiles security risks and how the MDS entraNET
provides a solution for minimizing vulnerability.
Table 1-2. Security Risk Management
Security Risk The MDS entraNET Solution
Unauthorized access to the backbone
network through a foreign remote radio Approved Remotes List
Only radios on the Approved
Remotes list connect
“Rogue” AP, where a foreign AP takes
control of some or all Remote radios and
thus remote devices
Approved AP List
A Remote connects only to APs on
its Approved AP List
“Dictionary attacks”, where an intruder
runs a program that sequentially tries to
break a password
Failedlog-inlockdown
After three tries, a transceiver
ignores log-in requests for 5 min.
Critical event reports (traps) are
generated as well.