Iridium Pilot TPIM1301 User manual

www.iridium.com [email protected] toll free: +1.866.947.4348 phone: [phone]
Installation Guide
TPIM1301
Land Station

Installation Guide
Land Station
© Copyright 2014 Iridium Satellite LLC
All rights reserved. (version TPIM1301)
Version 1.0
Effective January 2014
Notice:
Export Compliance Information. This product is
controlled by the export laws and regulations
of the United States of America. The U.S. Government
may restrict the export or re-export of this product
to certain individuals and/or destinations.
For further information, contact the U.S. Department
of Commerce, Bureau of Industry and Security
or visit www.bis.doc.gov.
Disclaimer:
Every effort has been made to ensure the correctness and completeness of the
material in this document. No company shall be liable for errors contained herein.
The information in this document is subject to change without notice. No warranty
of any kind is made with regard to this material, including, but not limited to, the
implied warranties of merchantability and fitness for a particular purpose.
Prior to installing or using Iridium Pilot Land Station, read and
understand this Installation Guide and the User Manual,
including the safety warnings and information.
Failure to do so could result in serious injury or death.
See Legal Notices on page (ii), Limited Warranty and Limitations
at Appendix F, and the Iridium Pilot Land Station User Manual.
Iridium, Iridium Pilot, and the Iridium Logo are registered trademarks of Iridium Satellite LLC and
its affiliates. All other trademarks, service marks and logos are the property of their respective
holders, which have not endorsed, sponsored or otherwise affiliated with Iridium.

ii Iridium Pilot Land Station Installation Guide
Legal Notices
This Installation Guide provides installation information and is provided“as is.” Iridium and its affiliated
companies, directors, officers, employees, agents, trustees or consultants (“Iridium”) assume no responsibility
for any typographical, technical, content or other inaccuracies in this Installation Guide. Iridium reserves the
right to revise this Installation Guide or withdraw it at any time without prior notice. You can find the current
version of this Iridium Pilot Land Station Installation Guide at www.iridium.com.
Your Iridium Pilot Land Station is subject to Terms and Conditions, Limited Warranty (including Exclusions,
Disclaimers, Limitations of Liability and Conditions of Use and Software License, which were included in
the packaging with your Iridium Pilot Land Station, and which can also be found in the Appendices to this
Installation Manual, and in your User Manual. If there are discrepancies in the wording of the Limited Warranty,
that version associated with the User Manual is controlling. You are permitted to use Iridium Pilot Land Station
only as described and specified in this Installation Guide, the User Manual, and the Limited Warranty. By using
the Iridium Pilot Land Station, you are indicating that you agree to comply with the terms set forth in this
Installation Guide as well as the User Manual, including without limitation the Limited Warranty, including the
section describing permitted use of Iridium Pilot Land Station (the“Conditions of Use”). If you fail to comply
with the Limited Warranty and the Conditions of Use, Iridium may void certain protections offered under the
Limited Warranty and Iridium reserves the right to terminate your right to use Iridium Pilot Land Station on
the Iridium system. If you do not accept the terms of the Limited Warranty and Conditions of Use, do not use
Iridium Pilot Land Station.
Prior to Installing Iridium Pilot Land Station, read and understand this Installation
Guide and the User Manual, including the safety warnings and information.
Failure to do so could result in serious injury or death.
If you do not have the Iridium Pilot Land Station User Manual, it can be found at www. iridium.com or call
1-866-947-4348 (or [phone] for outside U.S.) and request that a User Manual be sent to you.
Third Party Information
This Installation Guide might refer to third party sources of information, hardware or software, products
or services and/or third party web sites (“third party information”). Iridium does not control, and is not
responsible for, any third party information, including without limitation the content, accuracy, copyright
compliance, compatibility, performance, trustworthiness, legality, decency, links, or any other aspect of third
party information. The inclusion of such third party information does not imply endorsement by Iridium of
the third party information. ANY THIRD PARTY INFORMATION THAT IS PROVIDED WITH IRIDIUM’S FACILITIES,
SERVICES, PRODUCTS OR USER INFORMATION IS PROVIDED “AS IS”. IRIDIUM MAKES NO REPRESENTATIONS,
GUARANTEES OR WARRANTIES IN RELATION TO THIRD PARTY INFORMATION AND IRIDIUM SHALL NOT BE
LIABLE FOR ANY LOSSES, DAMAGES, LIABILITIES, JUDGMENTS, AND FINES, AMOUNTS PAID IN SETTLEMENT,
EXPENSES OR COSTS OF DEFENSE SUSTAINED IN RELATION TO ANY SUCH THIRD PARTY INFORMATION.
Intellectual Property, Trade Secret, Proprietary or Copyrighted Information
To protect Iridium proprietary and confidential information and/or trade secrets, this Installation Guide may
describe some aspects of Iridium technology in generalized terms. Iridium products may include copyrighted
Iridium and third party software. Any such copyrighted software contained in Iridium products may not be
modified, reverse engineered, distributed or reproduced in any manner to the extent provided by law. The
purchase of any Iridium products shall not be deemed to grant either directly or by implication or otherwise, any
license under copyrights, patents, or patent applications of Iridium or any third party software provider, except
for the normal, nonexclusive, royalty free license to use that arises by operation of law in the sale of a product.
Content Copyright
You are exclusively responsible for the use of Iridium Pilot Land Station, including proper use of third party copyrighted
materials. If you violate these terms, you agree to defend, indemnify and hold Iridium harmless with respect to any
claims or actions by third parties related to your improper use of copyrighted material and to pay all costs, damages,
fines and other amounts incurred by Iridium, or on its behalf, in the defense of any such claims or actions.

Iridium Pilot Land Station Installation Guide iii
Contents
Section I – INTRODUCTION ................................................................................................................................ 1
1. Introduction ....................................................................................................................................................................................... 1
2. Safety Summary ............................................................................................................................................................................... 2
3. Overview of Operation .................................................................................................................................................................. 4
Section II – INSTALLATION ................................................................................................................................. 7
4. Broadband Subscriber Unit Components ............................................................................................................................... 7
5. Interconnection Diagram............................................................................................................................................................... 8
6. Installation Considerations and Overview .............................................................................................................................. 9
7. How to Connect the System .......................................................................................................................................................13
8. Installing the System ....................................................................................................................................................................14
9. Install Performance Testing.........................................................................................................................................................22
Section III – NETWORK CONFIGURATION........................................................................................................ 25
10. Initial System Configuration ....................................................................................................................................................25
11. Configuration of LAN Settings ................................................................................................................................................26
Section IV – TROUBLESHOOTING .................................................................................................................... 29
12. Fault Overview ..............................................................................................................................................................................29
13. LED State Table .............................................................................................................................................................................29
14. Troubleshooting ...........................................................................................................................................................................29
15. Access Denial ................................................................................................................................................................................32
16. Performance Problems ..............................................................................................................................................................32
Section V – APPENDICES .................................................................................................................................. 33
Appendix A – Regulatory Approvals ...........................................................................................................................................33
Appendix B – Specifications ...........................................................................................................................................................36
Appendix C – ODU/IDU Cable ........................................................................................................................................................39
Appendix D – Ground Cable............................................................................................................................................................41
Appendix E – Installation Templates ............................................................................................................................................45
Appendix F – Limited Warranty including Exclusions, Disclaimers, Limitations of
Liability and Conditions of Use; Warranty Claim Process and Privacy and Data
Security, and Software License..................................................................................................................................................51
Appendix G – Site Survey Tool (SST).............................................................................................................................................58

iv Iridium Pilot Land Station Installation Guide

1: INTRODUCTION
Iridium Pilot Land Station Installation Guide 1
Section I – INTRODUCTION
1. Introduction
Thank you for purchasing Iridium Pilot Land Station, the NEXT generation solution for broadband voice
and data communications. Leveraging the world’s furthest reaching and only truly global communications
network, Iridium Pilot Land Station delivers exceptional performance, reliability and durability anywhere on
the planet. Powered by the Iridium OpenPort® service, and backed by an industry-leading warranty, you can
count on a secure, real-time connection — whenever and wherever you need it.
About This Guide
This is the Installation Guide for the Iridium Pilot Land Station platform. The readers of this manual include
anyone who intends to install this system. Specific skills are required to install the Iridium Pilot Land Station
platform and therefore, it is important that you observe all safety requirements listed in the beginning of this
manual, and operate the system according to this guide’s guidelines.
This guide provides you with complete information on the installation and testing of the Iridium Pilot Land
Station Terminal. This includes the following:
• Systeminstallation
• Systemstart-upandtest
• PC&networkconguration
• SystemAdministration
• Troubleshooting
Terms to Know
• ODU  OutdoorUnit(theradiatingunit)
• IDU  IndoorUnit(theuserinterfaceunit)
• IBSU  IridiumBroadbandSubscriberUnit(theODUandIDUtogether)
• POTS:  PlainOldTelephonySystem
• SIM:  SubscriberIdentityModule
• PSU:  PowerSupplyUnit
• Provisioned: AtermusedtoindicatetheSIMcardisactivatedforvoiceanddataconnection.
This can only be done by the Service Provider.

1: INTRODUCTION
2Iridium Pilot Land Station Installation Guide
2. Safety Summary
The ODU and the IDU should be installed by a qualified professional technician trained in the installation
of electronics and antennas. Failure to comply with these precautions or with specific warnings on the
equipment, in the User Manual or in this guide violates the safety standards of the design, manufacture
and intended use of this equipment.
WARNING
Prior to Installing Iridium Pilot Land Station, read and understand this Installation Guide and
the User Manual, including the safety warnings and information. Failure to do so could result
in serious injury or death.
If you do not have the Iridium Pilot Land Station User Manual, it can be found at www.iridium.com, or call
1-866-947-4348 (or [phone] for outside U.S.) and request that a User Manual be sent to you.
Follow all safety precautions carefully. Improper installation may result in injury or inability of the equipment
to function properly. Only a qualified professional technician trained in the installation of electronics and
antennas should remove the installation cover on the IDU.
Iridium Satellite LLC disclaims all liability for failure to comply with these requirements and
improper installation.
Shock Hazard
WARNING
The Indoor Unit (IDU) contains low voltage that may cause serious injury if opened. Do not,
under any conditions, open or dismantle the IDU. Failure to follow these instructions could
result in serious injury or death.
Radiation Hazard
The Federal Communications Commission has adopted a safety standard for human exposure to
RF (Radio Frequency) energy, which is below the OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Act) limits.
WARNING
The Outdoor Unit (ODU) transmits radio frequency energy (RF) that may cause thermal injuries
including tissue damage from increased heating and body temperature.
When the system power is ON keep all personnel a minimum of 1.0 m (3.3 ft.) from the
antenna (see Radiation Hazard). Failure to do so could result in serious injury or death.

1: INTRODUCTION
Iridium Pilot Land Station Installation Guide 3
Figure 1.
W
A
R
N
I
N
G
A
D
V
E
R
T
E
N
C
I
A
A
V
E
R
T
I
S
S
E
M
E
N
T
!
!
!
STAY BACK ONE
METER (3.3FT)!
Failure to do so
could result
in radio
frequency
(RF) energy
exposure causing thermal
injuries, serious injury
or death.
R
a
d
i
a
t
i
o
n
H
a
z
a
r
d
1.0 m (3.3 ft.)
RF Warning Label on ODU
Description Minimum Distance from Antenna
within 0˚- 180˚ of the antenna elevation range 1.0 m (3.3 ft.)
Antenna mounting and substitution
The antenna supplied by the manufacturer or radio dealer must not be mounted at a location such that during
radio transmission, any person or persons can come closer than the indicated minimum safe distance to the
antenna: 1.0 m (3.3ft).
To comply with current FCC RF Exposure limits, the antenna must be installed at or exceeding the minimum
safe distance shown above, and in accordance with the requirements of the antenna manufacturer or supplier.
Base Station Installation: The antenna should be fixed-mounted on an outdoor permanent structure. RF
Exposure compliance must be addressed at the time of installation.
You may contact your radio dealer or the manufacturer for further instructions. You, as the qualified end-user
of this radio device must control the exposure conditions of bystanders to ensure the minimum separation
distance (above) is maintained between the antenna and nearby persons for satisfying RF Exposure
compliance. The operation of this transmitter must satisfy the requirements of Occupational/Controlled
Exposure Environment, for work-related use. Transmit only when person(s) are at least the minimum distance
from the properly installed, externally mounted antenna.
If you have any concerns about the adequacy of the mounting or support for the Iridium Pilot Land Station
device, seek advice from a structural engineer or other qualified individual.
WARNING
Exposure to radio frequency energy (RF) from the antenna may cause thermal injuries including
tissue damage from increased heating and body temperature. Keep everyone at a safe distance
from the antenna when the system power is ON. Personnel must maintain a minimum separation
distance of 1.0 m (3.3ft) from the unit and installers must place ODU transmitter in a manner
to maintain minimum spacing requirement. Failure to do so could result in exposure to radio
frequency energy (RF) transmitted from the ODU that could result in serious injury or death.

1: INTRODUCTION
4Iridium Pilot Land Station Installation Guide
WARNING
Exposure to radio frequency energy (RF) from the antenna may cause thermal injuries including
tissue damage from increased heating and body temperature. Do not substitute any antenna
for the one supplied or recommended by the manufacturer or radio dealer. Substitution of
antennas could cause exposure to excess radio frequency radiation which could result in serious
injury or death.
WARNING
ODU must be properly mounted and secured to location. Failure to do so could result in
detachment of the unit, causing disruption in operation of the unit, or danger from a falling unit,
which could result in serious injury or death.
WARNING
Damage to the paint coating may allow rust to the ODU which could result in
failure of the ODU. This in turn could cause disruption in operation of the Iridium Pilot Land Station
device or danger from a falling unit. Avoid damaging the paint coating. If damage occurs, re-apply
appropriate anti-corrosion paint. Failure to do so could result in serious injury or death.
Blasting Areas
WARNING
To avoid interfering with blasting operations, do not use device in “blasting area” or in areas
posted: “Turn off two-way radio.” Obey all signs and instructions. Failure to do so could result
in serious injury or death.
3. Overview of Operation
Iridium’s constellation consists of 66 low-earth orbiting (LEO), cross-linked satellites operating as a fully meshed
network and supported by multiple in-orbit spares. Iridium has gateways in Arizona and additional telemetry,
tracking and control facilities in Canada and Norway. It is the largest commercial satellite constellation in the world.

1: INTRODUCTION
Iridium Pilot Land Station Installation Guide 5
Figure 2.
An Iridium Pilot Land Station voice or data call is received by the closest satellite to the device’s current
location, anywhere on the Globe. The traffic is routed through the meshed satellite network and lands at the
Alaska Ground Station, and, is then routed over terrestrial networks to the Gateway in Arizona. At the gateway,
traffic is converted back to internet protocol (IP) and voice, depending on call type and delivered to the IP
cloud or the public switched telephone network (PSTN).
Figure 3.
Internet
or VPN
PSTN
L-Band
K-Band K-Band
K-Band
GW

1: INTRODUCTION
6Iridium Pilot Land Station Installation Guide

2: INSTALLATION
Iridium Pilot Land Station Installation Guide 7
Section II – INSTALLATION
4. Broadband Subscriber Unit Components
1. Outdoor Unit (ODU): The ODU provides the communication connection between the IDU and Iridium’s
satellites. The ODU will automatically locate and track Iridium satellites overhead using a solid state antenna array.
Figure 4.
1
6
Mounting Bracket (not shown): The Mounting Bracket is the recommended installation method for both flat
surface or pole mount installations of the ODU. Other installation approaches may require an adapter plate
(user sourced).
2. Indoor Unit: The Indoor Unit (IDU) is the appliance to which you connect your telephones and computers.
It is capable of handling three POTS/RJ11 telephone handsets and one Ethernet data connection.
3. ODU/IDU Cable (10 m and 30 m cable available): The cable connects the ODU to the IDU. It is shielded
and has a waterproof connection for the ODU. Consult your Iridium service provider for availability.
To maintain the waterproofing and shielding integrity of the cable, take care when altering the cable in any
way. The pin-out of the interface cable can be found in Appendix C.
4. IDU Power Supply Unit: The AC Power Supply Unit (PSU) provides DC power to the IDU. Note that direct
DC power supply is also supported for vehicle or other DC power locations.
5. SIM: The SIM card validates the system at start-up, allows connection to the Iridium network and provisions
the appropriate phone and data lines.
6. ODU Ground Cable (3m standard and 8m available): The ground cable connects the ODU to a grounded
source at the point of installation. Comes with an adapter kit to facilitate alternative installations.
7. IDU Ground (2.5m standard): Ground cable to ground the IDU at the installation location.
Figure 5.
7
2
4
3 5 SIM card, reset button
and on/o switch are
located behind panel

2: INSTALLATION
8Iridium Pilot Land Station Installation Guide
Installer/Customer Furnished Equipment
• Mounting Pole/Location: Used to establish vertical position of ODU. Must have additional support if
exposed to high winds.
• Ethernet Cable: Use if data connection to a computer is provisioned. The total maximum length from the
ODU to the computer cannot exceed 100 meters.
• Fasteners: User must supply fasteners necessary to mount the ODU mounting bracket as well as the IDU at
their specific installation locations.
• Strap wire with electrical clips: To be used for grounding the ODU/IDU cable prior to installation. Prevents
static discharge that may have built up on the cable during installation process.
Recommended Practices/Supplies
Iridium recommends that a surge suppressor or universal power supply (UPS) unit is installed along with the
Iridium Pilot Land Station product.
5. Interconnection Diagram
Figure 6.
Iridium Pilot Land Station
Interconnection Diagram
Interconnect
Cable
(up to 50 meters)
Power Module
Mains
Power Cord 2 m
User Supplied
Computer and
Ethernet Cable
Optional
Handset
Outdoor Unit
Indoor Unit
power
status
signal
sim
off / on
data voice 1voice 2voice 3
GPS
123
6
5
4
789
0#
*
ABC DEF
MNO
JKL
GHI
PQRS TUV
MUTE
VOL
SPKR
Iridium Pilot
Crew Phone
Iridium
GoChat
Optional
Handset
123
6
5
4
789
0#
*
ABC DEF
MNO
JKL
GHI
PQRS TUV
MUTE
VOL
SPKR
Iridium Pilot
Crew Phone
Iridium
GoChat
Optional
Handset
123
6
5
4
789
0#
*
ABC DEF
MNO
JKL
GHI
PQRS TUV
MUTE
VOL
SPKR
Iridium Pilot
Crew Phone
Iridium
GoChat
Note: Maximum distance
between the ODU and the
user computer is 100 meters.
Ground Cable
IDU Ground
Understanding the Interface Between ODU and IDU
The IDU provides isolated 48 volts to operate the transceiver and digital base-band processor in the ODU. There
is an E1 interface that carries voice information from the IDU to the ODU. The E1 also provides communications
for housekeeping between the two devices, for SIM interfacing and “reset to factory defaults” commands. Lastly
there is an Ethernet connection thru the IDU connecting directly to the ODU base-band processor.

2: INSTALLATION
Iridium Pilot Land Station Installation Guide 9
6. Installation Considerations and Overview
Considerations
The single most important consideration of the Iridium Pilot Land Station installation is location of the ODU.
It must be located to minimize obstructions that block transmission to and from the satellites and be far
enough away from potential radio interferers that will degrade or jam reception of the Iridium downlink. The
ODU should also be located where anyone does not accidently violate the 1 meter RF Radiation hazard zone.
Mounting location is important to ensure a fully functional unit.
Overview of the Installation Process
1. Conduct a visual survey to identify locations for installation of the product. Place emphasis on avoiding
potential interference (see section 8) and a clear view of the sky, and place ODU transmitter in a manner to
maintain minimum spacing requirement of 1.0 from the antenna to a person.
2. Analyze and rank each of the potential sites.
3. Review User Manual and Installation Guide Warnings.
4. Temporary connection of equipment may be necessary to test and validate the potential ODU location(s).
These tests should be run with all nearby RF generating systems operational.
5. Run the “Site Survey Tool” supplied on the accessory CD with your product. This will help to identify and
quantify interferers with the ODU.
6. Installation of the ODU and IDU
• InstallthemastormountingbracketfortheODU
• RoutetheODU/IDUcableandgroundmetalRJ-45housingusingstrapwire/electricalclips
• ConnectODU/IDUcabletoODU
• MounttheODU
• ConnectthegroundcablefromtheODUtothegroundconnection
• MounttheIDU
• Removeelectricalclips,routeODU/IDUcabletoIDUandconnect
• ConnectthegroundcabletotheIDUandthenconnectotherendtolocalgroundconnection
• ConnectpowersupplytoIDU
• Connectphones
• Testthesystem
Installation Parts and Tools
• IridiumPilotLandStationunit–ODU,IDU,powermodule,interconnectcable,groundcable,
optional mounting bracket and mounting hardware.
• Usersuppliedpole(forpolemount)orothermountinglocation
• Windowscompatiblecomputer
• IridiumPilotLandStationaccessoryCD
• Ethernetcable
• UsersuppliedRJ11phones
• SlottedandPhillipsscrewdrivers
• Hammerandcenterpunch

2: INSTALLATION
10 Iridium Pilot Land Station Installation Guide
• Powerdrillandassociatedbits
• Wirecutters
• Wirestrippersandterminallugcrimper
• RJ-45Crimptool
• Electricaltape
• Strapwire/electricalclipsfortemporarygroundingtheODU/IDUcable(alligatorclips)
• GroundconnectionpointsforODUandIDU
6.1 Choosing a Location for the ODU
Proper location is critical to ensure proper communications between the Iridium Broadband Subscriber Unit
(IBSU) and the Iridium satellite network.
WARNING
The Outdoor Unit (ODU) transmits radio frequency (RF) that may cause thermal injuries
including tissue damage from increased heating and body temperature. When the system power
is ON keep all personnel a minimum of 1.0 m (3.3 ft.) from the antenna (see Radiation Hazard).
Failure to do so could result in serious injury or death.
ODU Installation Considerations
As previously stated, Iridium is a constellation of LEO satellites covering every location on the surface of the
Earth, at any moment in time. This means the satellite communicating with the Iridium Pilot Land Station unit
can be located anywhere within the local hemisphere, making a horizon-to-horizon unobstructed view of
the sky important for uninterrupted communications. The solid state antenna array takes care of tracking the
satellite to maintain acceptable link margin. No moving parts are used in the ODU for antenna tracking
Finding an unobstructed view of the sky may be challenging in your location. Pole mounting the ODU may
provide better results.
Figure 7.
Unobstructed view of sky all direction
Unrestricted area for obstructions
8.0 m (26.2 ft.)
2.0 m (6.6 ft.)
8.0 m (26.2 ft.)
No metallic or concrete
obstructions in
grey shaded area
Minimize
obstructions
Minimize
obstructions

2: INSTALLATION
Iridium Pilot Land Station Installation Guide 11
Obstructions Around the ODU
The satellite signals received by the antenna are less then 45° above the local horizon 90% of the time.
Therefore, obstructions that impact signal reception must be considered prior to installation.
To ensure the best possible connection with the Iridium satellite network the ODU needs clear exposure, in all
directions, to the sky. Two types of obstructions that should be considered when deciding the placement of
the ODU include: metallic and building/fixed obstructions.
The loss of signal (dB) will increase the closer the obstruction is to the ODU. The table below shows the
correlation between the size of the obstruction and the distance of the obstruction from the ODU and the
amount of signal loss.
Obstruction Signal Loss Table – Signal interference around the ODU
Diameter of Obstruction Obstruction Distance Signal Loss
.2 m (.7 ft.) < 2 m (6.5 ft.) 2 dB
< 4 m (13.1 ft.) 1 dB
.4 m (1.3 ft.) < 9 m (29.5 ft.) 2 dB
< 31 m (101.8 ft.) 1 dB
.6 m (2 ft.) < 22 m (72.2 ft.) 2 dB
< 75 m (246 ft.) 1 dB
.8 m (2.6 ft.) < 40 m (131.2 ft.) 2 db
1 dB
1.0 m (3.3 ft.) < 65 m (213.2 ft.) 2 dB
1 dB
RADAR systems or high power transmitters may cause signal interference.
To avoid possible damage to the ODU and degradation of the ODU performance the unit must be mounted as
far away as practical from these units. In addition it should also be kept clear of other sources of interference
such as other Iridium or Inmarsat terminals.
The diagrams and tables below are only guidelines as the minimum distances will be dependent on the
exact transmitter characteristics as well as reflections from surfaces or other items in the vicinity of the ODU.
The tables for X and S-band radar distances are minimum distances to avoid damage to the ODU and do not
necessarily guarantee a good communication link.
Minimum Distance from S-band & X-band RADARs
S-band (- 10 cm / 3 GHz) radars
Radar Power Min distance at 15˚ vertical separation Min distance at 60˚ vertical separation
0 – 10kW 0.4 m (1.3 ft.) 0.4 m (1.3 ft.)
30kW 1.0 m (3.3 ft.) 0.5 m (1.6 ft.)
50kW 2.0 m (6.6 ft.) 1.0 m (3.3 ft.)

2: INSTALLATION
12 Iridium Pilot Land Station Installation Guide
X-band (~ 3 cm / 10 GHz) and C-band (4-8GHz) radars
Radar Power Min distance at 15˚ vertical separation Min distance at 60˚ vertical separation
0 – 10kW 0.8 m (2.6 ft.) 0.4 m (1.3 ft.)
30kW 2.4 m (7.9 ft.) 1.2 m (3.9 ft.)
50kW 4.0 m (13.1 ft.) 2.0 m (6.6 ft.)
Important
A vertical separation of at least 15° is required from any RADAR to ensure the ODU is out of the main transmit
beam. If this is violated there is the potential the RADAR pulse will damage the sensitive RF receivers in the
ODU or at a minimum disrupt communications each time the RADAR sweeps past the ODU.
Important! A vertical separation of 15˚ is always required from any radar.
Offset Distances from other Communications & Navigation Equipment ODU Location Priorities
This next step will use the Iridium Pilot Land Station equipment to measure the RF environment at the
potential ODU mounting locations prior to permanent installation. This is an important step that will eliminate
the possibility of needing to move the equipment later. It is imperative all RADARs, communications and
navigation systems are ON and operating during this test to ensure all potential interferes are detected.
1. Locate the RADARs. They are usually the highest mounted items near the desired location of the ODU. Look
for locations that are at least 15° below the RADARs and honor the separation distances.
2. Locate Inmarsat radomes and honor the 10 meter separation distances. The Inmarsat and Iridium operating
frequencies are close together and interference is likely if the equipment is too close to each other. If one
system is designated a “backup” then there may be some latitude to violate the offset distance.
3. Locate the GPS antenna. GPS and Iridium frequencies are close together and transmission from the ODU can
affect navigation if the offset distances are not honored.
4. Note metal (RF reflective) surfaces just below the potential ODU location (Figure 7). Any metal in this area
has the potential to reflect RF energy and cause multipath fading.
5. Look at possible locations and the remaining antennae in the immediate area and select the locations with
the fewest potential interferers.
6. Finally look at the obstructions and determine if the site will provide a reasonably unobstructed view of the
sky. Try not to allow any single obstruction to attenuate signal path more than 2 dB.
System Minimum Separation
VHF 5.0 m (16.4 ft.)
HF (ssb) 5.0 m (16.4 ft.)
Inmarsat 10.0 m (32.8 ft.) minimum. Inmarsat may interfere
with Iridium at distances up to 60.0 m (196.8 ft.)
depending on the relative position of the satellites.
Other Iridium antennas (unity gain) 2.0 m (6.6 ft.)
Another Iridium Pilot Land Station Terminal 6.0 m (19.7 ft.)
GPS 10.0 m (32.8 ft.) if it is in the same horizontal plane as
the ODU
Compass 1.0 m (3.3 ft.) estimate

2: INSTALLATION
Iridium Pilot Land Station Installation Guide 13
6.2 Choosing a Location for the IDU
An ideal location for the IDU should be:
1. Within distance of the IDU/ODU cable (10m or 30m)
2. In a dry location.
3. Within close proximity to the digital and analog interface.
4. Close to AC/DC power.
5. Close to ground location.
Shock Hazard
WARNING
The Indoor Unit (IDU) contains low voltage that may cause serious injury if opened. Do not,
under any conditions, open or dismantle the IDU. Failure to follow these instructions could result
in serious injury or death.
System Connections for Temporary Setup
7. How to Connect the System
1. Prior to connecting the ODU/IDU cable, the metal RJ-45 connector must be grounded before connecting
to the ODU or IDU. Use the strap wire/electrical clips (alligator clips) to connect the metal RJ-45 to ground
connection (not an existing electrical system ground). This is to prevent any static discharge that may have
built up in the line prior to installation. Be careful not to damage the RJ-45 connector.
2. Connect the 9-pin circular connector on the interface cable to the ODU receptacle on the bottom of the
ODU.
Note: you can use the ODU shipping container as a temporary platform to support the ODU and to provide
clearance for the connector and cable by cutting a small hole on the cardboard box. Elevate the ODU to the
approximate intended install height and use a temporary platform to hold the unit. The orientation of the
ground lug is important as the testing software will use this direction as “aft”. For your install location, orient
the ODU so that the ground lug points to your “aft” or “rear” of your facility or location.
3. Connect the supplied ground cable from the ODU to the ground connection (see. Figure 12). Torque bolt on
ODU to 10-12ft-lbs.
4. Route the ODU/IDU cable to a location where Mains power is available. Tape the cable to reduce any trip
hazard during the temporary operation of the system.
5. Remove the“installation cover” on the IDU. Remove the electrical clips from the RJ-45 connector and
connect the interface cable and the green connector from the power module. You can leave the cover off at
this time.
6. Remove the SIM cover and install the SIM noting the correct orientation as indicated on the unit. Close the
SIM latch and make sure the power switch is in the off position. Leave the SIM cover off during the test.
7. Connect the mains cable to the power module and connect the other end to a Mains power outlet. The LED
on the power module should light and the Power LED on the IDU should light.
8. Connect a cable from the IDU“Data”port to the RJ-45 connector on the lap top computer.
9. Connect the RJ-11 cable from“Voice 1”on the IDU to a phone handset ( user supplied).

2: INSTALLATION
14 Iridium Pilot Land Station Installation Guide
7.1 Initial Power-up and Site Survey Test
1. On the IDU move the power switch to the ON position. After the units boots and the GPS initializes
(< 2 minutes) the status LEDs on the IDU should be as follows:
a. Power = Green
b. Status = Amber (Status can be Green with software version A012001)
c. Signal=Green
d. GPS=Green
2. Turn on the laptop computer and install the Iridium Pilot Land Station Accessory CD.
3. The PC should display the CD directory. Select the Site Survey Tool (SST) and double click to start the tool.
(note the tool assumes the default IP address if the address has been changed select the settings menu from
the Task bar and input the alternate IP address).
4. At this time make sure the any navigation and communication systems are on and active.
5. Click on the “Start” button on the SST application to begin the test. The tool scans ~ 2.6 channels per
second requiring 97 seconds to complete a single scan. Several scans are useful in assessing the local noise
environment and to detect down link information from the Iridium constellation. Note the screen will be
updating to provide feedback the program is executing normally.
6. This test validates that you have placed the Iridium equipment in a good location. See Appendix G for more
information on the SST.
8. Installing the System
Now that a suitable location for the ODU has been verified the equipment can be permanently installed for
operation. The permanent installation is comprised of 7 steps.
1. Route the ODU/IDU interface cable.
2. Connect and mount the ODU and note that the ground lug orientation will be used in software as “Aft” or
rear orientation.
3. Connect the ground cable from the ODU to a ground connection
4. Mount the IDU.
5. Connect the ground to the IDU, then the ODU/IDU interface cable and then the power connector
6. Connect the telephones and computer network to the IDU.
7. Test and verify the installation.
Routing the ODU/IDU Interface Cable
The interface cable has a waterproof circular connector that connects to the ODU and a shielded RJ-45
connector that connects to the IDU. Since the IDU side is much smaller it makes sense to pull the cable from
the ODU towards the IDU. Once the ODU site is known, an IDU location must be selected that is within the
distance of the ODU/IDU cable, accounting for the path thru the cable chase. Drill any required access holes in
order to route the cable to the interior of the location. The cable should be pulled by the RJ-45 connector. Use
care and install a pull string that attaches to the cable jacket and does not place stress on the connector. Use
electrical tape to protect the RJ-45 during the pull operation. Leave just enough service loop at the ODU and
store any excess cable in the cable chase or near the IDU.
Note: The ODU/IDU cable must be grounded prior to installing on the ODU or the IDU. Connect a wire strap/
electrical clip from the metal RJ-45 housing to a ground connection (not an existing electrical system ground).
Connect the cable to the ODU first. After the ground cable has been installed on the ODU you may then remove
the electrical clips.

2: INSTALLATION
Iridium Pilot Land Station Installation Guide 15
ODU Mounting Considerations
WARNING
ODU must be properly mounted and secured. Failure to do so could result in detachment of the
unit, causing disruption in operation of the unit, or danger from a falling unit, which could result
in serious injury or death.
A suitable mounting bracket or pole may need to be procured or fabricated to support the ODU. Factors to
consider in selecting a mounting method include:
• Theweightoftheunit(13kg,28lbs)-weightincludesprovidedmountingbracket
• Thephysicalsizeoftheunit(406mmhighby585mmindiameter)-heightincludesprovidedmounting
bracket
• Mechanicalresonanceofthesystemexcitedby:
- Mechanical vibrations induced by nearby operating machinery
- Wind induced vibration
These factors will be discussed in the following paragraphs. The mounting bracket and pole must be capable
of supporting the weight of the unit. Consideration should also be given to accessibility for installation and
service work, and the task of lifting and supporting the size and weight of the equipment safely whilst all the
connections are being made. The mounting bracket and pole must be capable of supporting the lateral loads
caused by the wind. For example at 60 mph the lateral force on the ODU alone (ie. excluding the pole) will be
approximately 3.5-4.5 kgf. This load will generate shearing and bending forces in the mounting bracket and
pole which must be distributed safely into the mounting structure. Since this loading will vary continuously
with time, the structure must not only withstand the static loading but also the fatigue loading over the
lifetime of installation.
When selecting a suitable mounting pole it is important to consider resonance as well as strength. The ODU
will be subject to vibrations caused by oscillating aerodynamic forces due to vortex shedding from the ODU
itself (in the range 0 – 10 Hz for wind speeds up to 60 mph, or storm force 10), and any upstream objects even
if they are outside the zone shown in Figure 7.
The ODU will also be subject to vibrations transmitted through the mounting structure (from engines,
motorized equipment, cable stays or guy ropes). Careful consideration must therefore be given to minimize the
potential for vibration causing damage to the ODU, by careful choice of the mounting position, pole diameter,
pole length, and any necessary supporting structure. If necessary modify the design of the mounting pole to
move its natural frequency (with ODU fitted) away from the frequency of the source of vibration. For example,
increasing the stiffness of the mounting pole will increase its natural frequency – this might be achieved by
using a shorter or thicker pole, but note that adding mass will have the contrary effect of reducing the natural
frequency. If the pole cannot be shortened, then consider adding rigid support struts or tensioned guy ropes
to reduce the effective length. The following guidelines are recommended:
• Minimumpolediameter:D=60.3mm(2.38in.)
• Minimumwallthickness:t=3.2mm(.125in.)
• Maximumunsupportedpolelength,L=2.0m(6.6ft)
For 100 mph winds (hurricane force 12) the unsupported length should be reduced to 1.0 m (3.3 ft.). Longer
poles are possible if additional support is provided such as guy ropes. More sophisticated mounting designs
may be necessary to deal with vibrations in some installations. The design of vibration reducing or absorbent
mountings is critically dependent on many installation specific factors that are well outside the scope of
this manual. Hence for any such an installation, consult specialist suppliers of antenna mountings, to obtain
professional advice.