Ground Control MCD-4801 User manual

MCD-4801
The Football
User Manual
MCD-4801 USER MANUAL
Ground Control
v1.2

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Contents
MCD-4801 OWNER IDENTIFIERS ............................................................................................... 4
CONTACTING GROUND CONTROL TECHNICAL SUPPORT ................................................... 4
MCD-4801 “THE FOOTBALL” OVERVIEW.................................................................................. 5
MCD-4801 FEATURES .................................................................................................................. 5
MCD-4801 SYSTEM CONTENTS.................................................................................................. 7
INSIDE THE MCD-4801 ................................................................................................................ 8
SYSTEM OPERATION ................................................................................................................. 10
WIFI SECURITY ........................................................................................................................... 11
ACCESSING THE MCD-4801 WEB INTERFACE ........................................................................ 13
USING THE LAN PORT............................................................................................................... 13
MONITORING USAGE................................................................................................................ 14
CHARGING FACTS...................................................................................................................... 15
MCD-4801 ACCESSORIES .......................................................................................................... 16
MCD-4801 TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS ............................................................................... 20
TROUBLESHOOTING SYSTEM OVERHEATING...................................................................... 22
CONTACTING GROUND CONTROL SUPPORT....................................................................... 23

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Safety Information
Important Safety Information for the
Ground Control BGAN MCD-4801 System
Like all BGAN systems, the MCD-4801 is a transmitting satellite device.
All persons should stay at least 1 meter from the case when it is transmitting.
If you have additional questions regarding connecting or operating your
system, beyond the simple operation set of the MCD-4801, please review the
Hughes 9450 Users Guide on the included USB key, or contact the Ground
Control Technical Support Team for assistance.
GROUND CONTROL SUPPORT
USA Toll Free: 1-800-931-5559
International: [phone]
Email: [email protected]

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MCD-4801 Owner Identifiers
Please fill out the information on this page with the account information supplied to you
from Ground Control and keep this manual available in the field.
Ground Control Account Number:GC____________________
MCD-4801 Web Interface: 192.168.128.200
Hughes 9450 Web Interface: 192.168.128.100
BGAN Static IP Address: (if any) _______________________
SSID Wireless Broadcast Football [Serial Number]
Wireless Security Password: _______________________
Default has no wireless security
Contacting Ground Control Technical Support
Ground Control technical support representatives are available 24 hours per day for your
convenience. Please note that our standard hours of operation are Monday –Friday, 8AM
to 5PM Pacific Standard Time. If you call outside of these hours, support response may be
delayed and certain resources may not be available to the support agent.
For Technical Support, please call 1-800-931-5559 from the U.S. or [phone] from
abroad. You may also email [email protected] from a computer connected
to working Internet connection.

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MCD-4801 “The Football” Overview
The MCD-4801 "Mobile Communications Device", also known as "The Football", is an auto-
pointing BGAN satellite terminal that requires no user training to operate. Simply place
the weather-tight case on the ground, or on a boat deck, or on any surface with a clear
view of the sky, rain or shine, anywhere in the world and turn it on - no pointing
necessary. Within a minute, the MCD-4801 becomes a wireless hotspot for any wireless
device up to 100 meters from the case for up to 5 hours on the internal battery. The auto-
pointing case uses the high performance Hughes 9450 in-motion BGAN terminal
integrated with our proprietary mobile electronics for a ruggedized self-contained, in-field,
user-friendly solution.
MCD-4801 Features
Features are subject to change. Please refer to the Ground Control website for current features.
No Aiming Required. Simply turn the unit on under an open sky.
Does Not Require User Interaction. No software to run. Establishes AP automatically.
Up to 100 meter range wireless access point for laptop, smartphone, or other wireless device.
Internet speeds up to 460 Kbps in both directions.
Two external all weather RJ-45 Ethernet connection ports.
Up to 5 hour battery life for normal use.
May be plugged into a vehicle 12V power port for continuous operation (through included inverter).
Operates from -25°C to 70°C (-13˚F to +158˚F) temperatures. Auto-shutoff at 158°F (internal temp)
Operates on top of moving vehicle roof, or boat, or any moving object.
Works well in heavy rain, and will operate with 20mm of ice before transmission issues.
Watertight, crushproof, dustproof reinforced plastic case.
The MCD-4801 operates globally (except for the north and south polar regions).
Portable - Ships UPS, FedEx, carry-on luggage anywhere… Onboard battery is NOT Li-Ion.
Full IP compatibility - Internet, SMTP email, file transfer (FTP, and VPN).
Cost effect "always-on" access, charged for only what is transferred.
The MCD-4801 case is a Ground Control manufactured solution, supported by us 24/7.

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LAN PORT –Two RJ-45 ports for Ethernet connection are available on
the front panel. Both are sealed with a quick-disconnect water-tight
cap. Special quick-disconnect Ethernet cable ends that maintain a
watertight connection to the MCD-4801 are available as an accessory
item.
Light Sensor –This sensor will backlight the display in darkness so the display
can be read. From the MCD-4801 control panel, the sensitivity of this sensor
can be set, including always off.
Display –Shows power up status and battery level.
Charge / Power Port –This charge port is used to connect the
AC/DC Power Supply. The charger will power the terminal as well as
recharge and maintain the MCD-4801 battery. The charge system
will work as necessary with the unit on or off. Higher outside air
temperatures may increase charge time if the unit is on while
charging. Always install the Charge Port Cap when the power
supply is not connected to maintain its weatherproof integrity.
One button operation,
Global connectivity,
High-speed Internet,
No training or certification required,
A Global, Portable WiFi Hotspot.

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MCD-4801 System Contents
The MCD-4801 includes (from top-left moving counter-clockwise) the MCD-4801 terminal with
attached quickstart guide in the lid, a miniature compass, a USB flash drive with user guides, an
international plug kit for US, UK, EU, AU and China plug types (with small bag), an AC/DC charger
for the MCD-4801, a mini-inverter to power the MCD-4801 from a vehicle power port, and an
accessory bag to hold all loose contents.

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Inside the MCD-4801
Inside the case (from left side moving right) is the WiFi antenna, the domed class 11 BGAN satellite
antenna, the SIM cover, fan, and the LED power button. There is also an internal fan used to vent
electronics. We recommend having the case lid opened slightly in hot locations.
WiFi Antenna –When raised, the WiFi antenna adds extra
range to the MCD-4801 wireless connection. This antenna is
a standard RP-SMA type antenna and larger higher gain
antennas can easily be mounted. Note the antenna needs to
be folded down in order to close the case lid.
SIM Card Tray –Rotate the SIM cover to expose the SIM
tray. Insert the SIM with the notch side down, and to the
right. To insert a SIM, push it into the SIM slot until it “clicks”.
To remove SIM card, simply push it in until it clicks, and it
will self-eject when finger is removed.

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Fan & Fan Cover –The fan inside of the MCD-4801 will
automatically start if the internal temperature becomes too
hot. It is advisable to run the case lid cracked open in hot
weather. The terminal will auto-shutoff when the internal
temperature reaches 158ºFahrenheit (70º Celsius).
Power –On/Off –When pressed, the power button will light
up when the terminal is turned on. To power the system off,
simple press the button again.
The MCD-4801 may be used on a moving vessel, even during heavy seas.

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System Operation
STEP 1 –FIND AN OPEN AREA
Lay the MCD-4801 flat (top side up, as if to open
the case), under an open sky.
The terminal needs to have line-of-sight with
one of the three BGAN Inmarsat satellites.
These satellites are stationary in the sky, so as
long as line-of-sight is maintained, the terminal
may be placed up against a wall or tree.
The map below is very helpful to find what direction, and how high up from the horizon an
available BGAN satellite is. Use the included compass to help you quickly discern where a good
location would be to place the terminal to avoid things like trees and buildings.

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The MCD-4801 may also work through glass from inside a building or through a tent wall. If
possible, it is good to place the terminal on an elevated area, such as a vehicle roof, so that the
satellite signal is not interfered with when people walk by.
STEP 2 –TURN POWER ON
Open the MCD-4801 to access the power button of the terminal.
Simply press the power button to turn it on. The button itself
will light up to show the system is active. The external display
will show the system status and current battery level.
Close the lid for a watertight seal. The MCD-4801 operates just as well with the lid open or closed.
During hot weather, it is advised to keep the lid slightly open to vent internal heat.
Note, as with all BGAN systems, everyone should stay at least 1 meter from this device while it is
transmitting.
The MCD-4801 will begin to search for a satellite, as well as attain a GPS location. A GPS signal will
be quickly acquired if there is a wide sky above the terminal, otherwise it make take up to 3
minutes for GPS to be found.
In about 1 minute, the system will be online (3 minutes if GPS hasn’t been found). If it is not online
in that time, simply reboot the system. You may need to move the MCD-4801 to a new location if it
has not found a satellite.
STEP 3 –CONNECTING TO THE MCD-4801 WiFi HOTSPOT
The MCD-4801 establishes a standard WiFi hotspot with the name of “Football”. You may connect
a laptop or smart device to the MCD-4801 using that device’s wireless access screen. Once
connected, you are online, and may use the connection like any other Internet connection.
That’s it... you are online!
WiFi Security
By default, wireless security is NOT enabled when the terminal is shipped. We recommend
enabling WiFi security as soon as possible to keep the terminal from being used by unauthorized
devices.

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To access the WiFi security screens, type in 192.168.128.100 into any connected browser window.
Next, select the “Settings” tab, and choose “WLAN Security”
Select the type of security you wish to use from the pull down window (WPA2 is recommended).
Detailed wireless security information can be found on page 37 of the Hughes 9450 User Manual.

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Accessing the MCD-4801 Web Interface
From any connected browser, type in 192.168.128.200 and
press Enter. The MCD-4801 main interface screen will
appear. This screen will show you the state of the battery
and give you access to changes settings of the system as
well as access usage totals.
Click on the Settings Button to be taken to the main
interface window of the Hughes 9450. Here you can set
any parameter of the system.
Click on Usage to see how much data has been
transferred. You may reset totals so that you can track
your current session.
Bookmark 192.168.128.200 from any connected browser
so that you can monitor battery levels.
From any connected browser, type in 192.168.128.100
and press Enter. The Hughes 9450 web interface screen
becomes available. These screens will allow a number of
parameter changes such as SSID, enabling/disabling WiFi,
Static IP configuration, MAC filtering, usage totals, along
with a number of other status and parameter screens. For
more information regarding the Hughes 9450, please refer
to the Hughes 9450 User Manual.
Using the LAN Port
An Ethernet cable may connect to the waterproof jack on the external LAN port of the MCD-4801.
Twist off the weather cap and connect a standard Ethernet cable. The MCD-4801 is normally set to
DHCP (Dynamic Routing), which means it will automatically issue an IP address to any computer
that connects to it. The LAN Port does provide POE (Power Over Ethernet) for devices that require
this feature.
A standard Ethernet cable is all that is needed. A crossover cable is not required.

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Monitoring Usage
The amount of Megabytes transferred is shown on the Usage Statistics screen of the Hughes 9450
Web Interface. This screen is reached by entering 192.168.128.100 into any connected browser.
As show above, not only are Megabytes tracked for both inbound and outbound traffic, streaming
services as well as time on the phone are tracked.
The usage screen is divided into two parts; “Trip Usage Statistics” are similar to the trip counter on
a vehicle. You can reset the totals to 0 at any time. The other “Lifetime Usage Statics” is like an
odometer and cannot be reset unless the terminal is factory reset (and upgraded to the most
recent firmware).
Note these totals are estimates and should only be used as a general idea of usage.

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Charging Facts
Recharging the MCD-4801 Internal Batteries
The MCD-4801 will operate about 5 hours on a single battery charge. To charge the system, simply
connect the charger to the system. Charge time will take less than eight hours if fully discharged.
Long Term Storage Charging
The charger may be left connected to the MCD-4801 during storage to keep the MCD-4801’s
batteries in a state of readiness.
If you choose not to keep the system plugged in during storage, we recommend recharging every
month, and no less than every 6 months to avoid complete battery depletion.
Vehicle Power for Continuous Use & Charging
Plug the Mini-Inverter into any vehicle power port to provide
power for the MCD-4801 charger. Keep the vehicle running
if the MCD-4801 will be online for any significant period of
time to avoid depleting the car battery.
Solar Charging for Continuous Use and Charging
The optional foldable solar panel for the MCD-4801 will
provide up to 75% of the power for operation, increasing
run time by 300 to 400%. It will also recharge the internal
batteries in no power locations when power is off.

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MCD-4801 Accessories
Note: All prices are subject to change. Please visit www.groundcontrol.com/football for current
pricing on all system accessories.
Gen 2 MCD-4801 Replacement AC/DC Charger
The new "Gen 2" charger for the MCD-4801 works for
both fast charging, and maintenance charging for long
term storage. Charge time is just under 4 hours if the
terminal is complete discharged. Keep it plugged in for
long term storage to maintain battery at 100%. This
charger is not compatible with Gen 1 MCD-4801
terminals.
MPN:BGANAMCDCHARGER
Replacement Universal Power Connectors
International plugs including U.S., U.K., European,
Australian, China, N. Europe.
MPN:BGANAMCD03
Ethernet Cables with Watertight RJ-45 Connector
While standard Ethernet cables may connect to the
MCD-4801 front panel, these gray Cat5e Ethernet
cables have one end with a quick connect adapter that
makes a watertight seal to the MCD-4801 front panel.
5 Meter MPN: BGANAMCD10
10 Meter MPN: BGANAMCD11
25 Meter MPN: BGANAMCD12
Watertight RJ-45 Connectors
Make your own watertight cables with these
connectors. While standard Ethernet cables may
connect to the MCD-4801 front panel, these RJ-45
Ethernet connectors will make your Cat5e Ethernet
cable have a watertight connection to the MCD-4801
case. Requires standard RJ-45 crimper tool to make.
MPN: BGANAMCD08

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80+ Watt Foldable Solar Panel
For MCD-4801 & Universal Use
This lightweight 80+ watt solar panel will connect
directly to the MCD-4801 for both power assist and
recharging. Recharge time is 10-12 hours in full
sunlight. If the MCD-4801 is turned on, the solar panel
will power assist up to 75% of the power needed,
extending the 5 hour battery life 300% to 400%. This
panel also includes a "universal" cable kit such as a
vehicle power port to charge other devices that can
power from a vehicle port. Click for larger image
MPN: BGANAMCD04
DC Vehicle / Battery Power Cable
3 meters (10' feet) DC power cable - Power or recharge
the MCD-4801 from any vehicle power port or battery
or any DC power source. Includes quick-connecting
alligator clips & vehicle power port connector. Input -
12VDC (vehicle battery) Output 24VDC. This accessory
is essential for charging the MCD-4801 in no-power
locations. Click for larger image.
MPN: BGANAMCD05
KIT - BB-2590 Rechargeable Lithium-Ion External
Battery, and Cables
Kit includes the rechargeable BB-2590 external battery
to power the MCD-4801 for an additional 3 hours (per
battery). Kit also includes "Battery Connector Cable"
(MPN: BGANAMCD06) that connects battery to MCD-4801,
and the "Battery Recharger" (MPN: BTC-70791-LR) for
recharging the BB-2590 battery.
Battery Technical Information
Battery Recharger Information
MPN: BB-2590KIT
BB-2590 Rechargeable Lithium-Ion External Battery
Extra BB-2590 batteries. Allows the MCD-4801 to
operate for an additional 3 hours. 6.8 Amp hours.
Requires Battery Connector Cable (MPN-BGANAMCD06) for
battery connection to MCD-4801. Also Requires Battery
Recharger for BB-2590 (MPN: BTC-70791-LR) for recharging
the battery.
BB-2590 Battery Technical Information
MPN:BB-2590 (aka BB-2590/U)

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Battery Recharger for BB-2590 External Battery
AC-DC Battery Recharger (110 to 240 VAC). May use
international power plug adapters for recharging from
any AC power source from any country. (Plug adapters
are shipped with MCD-4801). Will recharge BB-2590
within 10 hours.
Battery Recharger Information
MPN:BTC-70791-LR
Non-Rechargeable BA-5590 External Battery
Single-Use lithium sulfur dioxide battery. Allows the
MCD-4801 to operate for an additional 3 hours. 7.2
Amp hour. Meets MIL-B-49471/3A for voltage, leakage,
mechanical or thermal shock, vibration, insulation. This
battery will Require Battery Connector Cable (MPN:
BGANAMCD06) below to connect battery to MCD-4801.
BA-5590 Battery Technical Information
MPN:BA-5590/U
Battery Connector Cable
36" (3 feet) connector cable between an external
battery (type BB-2590 or BB-5590) and the MCD-4801.
Includes voltage regulator for smooth operation.
Click for larger image.
MPN:BGANAMCD06
Directional 8 dBi Wireless Antenna
This directional antenna extends the wireless range of
the MCD-4801 in one direction (a focused angle 66
degree wide by 16 degrees vertical from the face of the
antenna).
MPN:BGANAMCDANT01
Gen 2 - MCD-4801 Internal Batteries
(Includes 2 battery packs)
Each MCD-4801 includes two high-capacity NiMh
(Nickel-Metal Hydride) battery packs inside of the case.
Kit includes instructions for replacing packs with
existing batteries.
MPN:BGANAMCDBAT

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MCD-4801 3 Year Extended Warranty
This is a 24 month extension on the standard 12
month warranty. Standard & extended warranties
include replacement parts & labor.
SKW: BGANAMCD3YWAR
MCD-4801 5 Year Extended Warranty
This is a 48 month extension on the standard 12
month warranty. Standard & Extended warranties
include replacement parts & labor.
SKW: BGANAMCD5YWAR
The MCD-4801 is watertight, and operates with the case lid closed.

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MCD-4801 Technical Specifications
MCD-4801 Contents
The MCD-4801 uses a Hughes 9450 BGAN terminal enclosed in a hardened Pelican case
with proprietary electronics. Other items include an AC/DC Charger with International
plug adapters (US, UK, AU, EU, China, N. Europe), 12V vehicle mini-inverter, laminated
Quickstart guide, mini compass, system documentation on USB flash drive, and a carry
case for all accessories.
Terminal Capability
Internet, Email, VoIP, FTP, SMS messaging, video streaming, VPN.
Internet Speeds
Class 2 BGAN - 464 Kbps down x 448 Kbps up with standard IP connection
Antenna Type
Class 11
Global Service
Inmarsat BGAN I4 network - Operates with any BGAN service provider
BGAN Rx/Tx Frequencies
L-band, Rx @ 1525.0-1559.0 MHz, Tx @ 1626.5-1660.5 MHz
Network
DHCP, NAT, Public IP's available
Wireless LAN
802.11b/g/n - Up to 100 meters WiFi range. Up to 11 concurrent wireless connections.
Wireless Security
WPA & WPA2, MAC filtering options for up to 10 devices
External Port - LAN
Two - RJ45 Ethernet Ports
External Port - Power
Power & charge port for AC/DC charger or foldable solar option.
Streaming Services 1:1CIR
32Kbps, 64Kbps, 128Kbps
Exterior Case Dimensions
17"L x 13.75"W x 6.75 "H (432 x 349 x 171 mm)
Weight (case only)
25 lbs. 4.3 oz. (11.46 kg)
Onboard Battery Life
Up to 5 hours normal use
Recharge Time
Under 8 hours (from fully discharged) using 110 to 240 VAC (worldwide)
Onboard Battery Type
NiMH (Nickel-Metal Hydride)… FCC Compliant.
Regional Power
Compatibility
Includes international plug kit for U.S., U.K., European, Australian, China, N. Europe -
Power Supply - Charger
Input 110 to 240 Volts AC. Output 28 Volts DC @ 8 Amps
External Batteries
Optional military grade BB-2590 & BA-5590 - adds up to 3 hour runtime