ITRON Routing Node ERT User manual

Routing Node ERT®
Gateway Mesh
Installation Guide
INSTALLATION GUIDE
15 June 2020
knowledge to shape your future
815-0322-00 Rev0 Itron, Inc. Page 1 of 30

Routing Node ERT® Gateway Mesh Installation Guide Rev0
15 June 2020
815-0322-00
Copyright © 2020 Itron, Inc. All rights reserved.
Confidentiality Notice
Confidential Information of Itron®, Inc., provided under nondisclosure obligations. The information
contained herein is proprietary and confidential and is being provided subject to the condition that (i) it be
held in confidence except to the extent required otherwise by law and (ii) it will be used only for the
purposes described herein. Any third party that is given access to this information shall be similarly bound
in writing.
Trademark Notice
Itron is a registered trademark of Itron, Inc.
All other product names and logos in this documentation are used for identification purposes only and may
be trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective companies.
For more information about Itron or Itron products, go to www.itron.com.
If you have questions or comments about a software or hardware product, contact Itron Technical Support
Services.
Contact
Email: [e-mail]
Itron Access: https://access.itron.com
Telephone Itron Technical Support North America: 1-877-487-6602
For technical support contact information by region, go to www.itron.com and select your country and
language.
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Routing Node ERT® Gateway Mesh Installation Guide

Contents
Rou ting No d e E RT ®Ga teway Mes h Ins talla tio n Gu ide 1
Con ten ts 3
1 Important Safety and Compliance Information 5
USA, FCC Part 15 Compliance 5
Canada, ISED Compliance 6
RF Exposure (FCC/ISED) 6
Modifications and Repairs 7
Electromagnetic Compatibility 7
Professional Installation 7
2 Getting Started: Routing Node-ERT Gateway Mesh 8
ERT Gateway Mesh Related Documents 9
Installation Location Information 9
ERT Gateway Mesh Components 10
ERT Gateway Mesh Housing 11
ERT Gateway Antennas 13
3 Planning an ERT Gateway Installation 14
Installation Profiles 14
Siting the ERT Gateway 14
Installation Location Information 15
Propagation Study for the ERT Gateway Installation Site 15
AC Power Requirements 16
Mounting Hardware Requirements 16
4 Installing the ERT Gateway 17
Installation Overview 17
Installing the Battery 18
Attaching the ERT Antenna 19
Attaching the WAN Antenna 20
Mounting the ERT Gateway 20
Mounting Hardware 21
Mounting the ERT Gateway on a Pipe 23
Mounting the ERT Gateway on a Pole 24
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Routing Node ERT® Gateway Mesh Installation Guide

Mounting the ERT Gateway on a Davit Arm 24
Connecting the Ground Wire (If Required) 26
Connecting the ERT Gateway Power 26
Connecting the Power Cable 26
ERT Gateway Wiring Diagram 27
A Appendix: ERT Gateway Specifications 28
Dimensions and Weight 28
Antenna Specifications 29
Environmental Specifications 30
AC Mains Power 30
ERT Gateway Power Operating Range 30
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Routing Node ERT® Gateway Mesh Installation Guide

1
Important Safety and Compliance Information
This section provides important information for your safety and product compliance.
USA, FCC Part 15 Compliance
This device 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 interference that may cause
undesirable operation.
This equipment complies with radiation exposure limits set forth for an uncontrolled environment.
The antenna(s) used must be installed to provide a separation distance of at least 20 centimeters
(7.9 inches) from all persons and must not be collocated or operating in conjunction with any
other antenna or transmitter.
USA, FCC Class B-Part 15
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device,
pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable
protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates,
uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with
the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no
guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause
harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the
equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of
the following measures:
■Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
■Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.
■Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is
connected.
■Consult the dealer or an experienced radio or TV technician for help.
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Canada, ISED Compliance
Compliance Statement Canada
This device complies with Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada (ISED)
license-exempt RSS standard(s). Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) this
device may not cause interference, (2) this device must accept any interference, including
interference that may cause undesired operation of the device.
Under Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada (ISED) regulations, this radio
transmitter may only operate using an antenna of a type and maximum (or lesser) gain approved
for the transmitter by Industry Canada. To reduce potential radio interference to other users, the
antenna type and its gain should be so chosen that the equivalent isotropically radiated power
(e.i.r.p.) is not more than that necessary for successful communication.
Déclaration de Conformité
Le présent appareil est conforme aux CNR d'Industrie Canada applicables aux appareils radio
exempts de licence. L'exploitation est autorisée aux deux conditions suivantes: (1) l'appareil ne
doit pas produire de brouillage, (2) l'utilisateur de l'appareil doit accepter tout brouillage
radioélectrique subi, même si le brouillage est susceptible d'en compromettre le fonctionnement.
Conformément à la réglementation d'Industrie Canada, le présent émetteur radio peut
fonctionner avec une antenne d'un type et d'un gain maximal (ou inférieur) approuvé pour
l'émetteur par Industrie Canada. Dans le but de réduire les risques de brouillage radioélectrique
à l'intention des autres utilisateurs, il faut choisir le type d'antenne et son gain de sorte que la
puissance isotrope rayonnée équivalente (p.i.r.e.) ne dépasse pas l'intensité nécessaire à
l'établissement d'une communication satisfaisante.
RF Exposure (FCC/ISED)
This equipment complies with radiation exposure limits set forth for an uncontrolled environment.
This equipment should be installed and operated with minimum distance 20 cm between the
radiator and your body. This transmitter must not be co-located or operating in conjunction with
any other antenna or transmitter.
Cet équipement est conforme aux limites d'exposition aux radiations dans un environnement
non contrôlé. Cet équipement do it être installé et utilisé à distance minimum de 20 cm entre le
radiateur et votre corps. Cet émetteur ne doit pas être co-localisées ou opérant en conjonction
avec tout autre antenne ou transmetteur.
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Routing Node ERT® Gateway Mesh Installation Guide 1 Important Safety and Compliance Information

Modifications and Repairs
Caution: To ensure FCC and ISED compliance, and system performance, this
device and antennas shall not be changed or modified without the express approval of
Itron. Any unauthorized modifications or operation beyond or in conflict with these
instructions for use could void the user's authority to operate the equipment.
Danger! This device contains no user serviceable parts. Attempts to repair this
device by unauthorized personnel may subject the person to shock hazard if removal
of protected covers is attempted. Unauthorized repair will void the warranty and/or
maintenance contract with your company.
Electromagnetic Compatibility
Caution: Use only approved accessories with this equipment. All cables must be high
quality, shielded, and correctly terminated. Unapproved modifications or operation
beyond or in conflict with these use instructions may void the authorities authorization
to operate the equipment.
Professional Installation
The ERT Gateway is intended for professional installation by the integrator. The OEM integrator
is still responsible for the FCC and ISED compliance requirements of the end product, which
includes integration with the antennas.
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Routing Node ERT® Gateway Mesh Installation Guide 1 Important Safety and Compliance Information

2
Getting Started: Routing Node-ERT Gateway
Mesh
The Routing Node-ERT Gateway Mesh provides a unified means of reading Itron R300/R400
electric meters over an IPv6 network.
The ERT Gateway Mesh communicates directly with the Connected Grid Router (CGR). The
gateway utilizes RF links with optimized modulation rates. The CGR then transmits the data to
the OpenWay Operations Center (a part of the head-end system) over the utility's backhaul
communication solution. The ERT Gateway's flexible design provides installation options for a
variety of wall-mounted or pole-mounted locations. This flexibility provides optimal
communication effectiveness and range and minimizes installation costs.
Important! Installation must be completed by professional installers to ensure
trouble-free operation of the Itron OpenWay system. Follow these product installation
instructions to ensure proper operation of your Routing Node ERT Gateway Mesh.
Important! Use the ERT Gateway shipping packaging to transport the ERT
Gateway. The shipping materials protect the ERT Gateway from damage.
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ERT Gateway Mesh Related Documents
The listed documents provide additional information for ordering and working with the Routing
Node ERT Gateway Mesh.
Document Itron
part
number
Routing Node-ERT Gateway Ordering Guide PUB-1306-001
OpenWay Collection Manager Installation and Configuration Guide TDC-1675-XXX
OpenWay® Operations Center Performance Manager Integration Guide Integration Guide TDC-1718-XXX
Note: The -XXX refers to the revision level of the document. The revision level is subject to
change without notice.
Installation Location Information
The ERT Gateway is designed for the listed installation locations:
■Wood, concrete, or metal utility pole
■Wall (indoor or outdoor)
■Pipe or mast (between 2 and 3.5" in diameter)
■Roof
Note: Roof installation requires a 3rd-party, non-penetrating mounting kit (for example,
Tessco #461587)
■Other vertical structures
Note: To achieve optimal RF performance the ERT Gateway Mesh should be mounted at
the height recommended by Itron’s Global Network Design Center (GNDC).
Integrated mounting and coupling brackets secure the device in high winds and under heavy ice
loads. Consult a professional engineer with concerns about your ERT Gateway Mesh mounting
location.
The ERT Gateway Mesh consists of several components in a single, weatherproof device.
Electrical components are encased in a plastic enclosure that provides optimum safety for the
installer.
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Routing Node ERT® Gateway Mesh Installation Guide 2 Getting Started: Routing Node-ERT Gateway Mesh

Warning! In accordance with FCC rules, unapproved modifications or operation
beyond or in conflict with these use instructions could void the user's authority to
operate the equipment. Only authorized Itron personnel may open the ERT Gateway.
Unauthorized access or modifications to the ERT Gateway will void the warranty.
ERT Gateway Mesh Components
The ERT Gateway Mesh has three antennas. Two of the antennas are mounted directly on the
gateway housing:
■WAN antenna for communication to and from the CGR
■ERT antenna for communications from the electric meter
The third antenna is the internal Wi-Fi antenna.
Since the ERT Gateway can be installed in outdoor environments, each component of the
gateway is weather-tight and able to withstand wind speeds in excess of 100 miles per hour.
Note: Review the ERT Gateway Ordering Guide (PUB-1306-001) for specific part numbers
and component options to determine the ERT Gateway configuration.
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Routing Node ERT® Gateway Mesh Installation Guide 2 Getting Started: Routing Node-ERT Gateway Mesh

ERT Gateway Mesh Housing
The ERT Gateway Mesh housing contains the electronic components, radio boards and backup
battery. The radio antennas are included with the gateway and are directly mounted to the
housing.
Caution: Only authorized Itron personnel may open this device. Unauthorized
access or modifications to this product voids the warranty. Per FCC rules, unapproved
modifications or operation beyond or in conflict with the installation instructions in this
guide could void the user's authority to operate the equipment.
Designator Component Description
1 ERT Gateway The ERT Gateway processes data
received through the antennas and
relays it to the OpenWay Operations
Center (OWOC). Only authorized
Itron personnel may open this product
housing.
2 ERT antenna A 915MHz antenna that receives
messages from the 100 series ERT
modules in the network. The
connection for this antenna is type N
female.
3 ERT Gateway label The label displays the identification
number, model number, and other
associated gateway information.
4 Power connector The power connector supplies power
to the ERT Gateway. A three-pin
cable connects the ERT Gateway to
the AC mains power supply.
5 WAN antenna A 900MHz antenna that provides a
connection to the MESH network.
The connection for this antenna is a
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Routing Node ERT® Gateway Mesh Installation Guide 2 Getting Started: Routing Node-ERT Gateway Mesh

type N female.
6 Ground lug The ground lug is optional on the ERT
Gateway and is provided for utilities
that require a separate earth ground.
Note: When the ERT
Gateway Mesh is
powered with the light
pole/photo sensor
adapter, there is no
ground connection.
Use the ground lug in
the this configuration.
7 LED status indicator The status indicator displays the
current operational status of the ERT
Gateway. The LED indicator is
located on the bottom of the housing.
■Unpowered (off)
■Initializing (green blink)
■Running (green)
■Error (amber)
The LED is configurable for the
following display modes:
■None (no light)
■Error only
■Normal
8 Battery compartment Backup battery cover
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Routing Node ERT® Gateway Mesh Installation Guide 2 Getting Started: Routing Node-ERT Gateway Mesh

ERT Gateway Antennas
The ERT Gateway utilizes three antennas.
■ERT antenna: The ERT antenna is a custom designed, 5.5dBi antenna that mounts directly
to the top of the ERT Gateway Mesh housing.
■WAN antenna: The WAN antenna is a custom designed 2.6dBi antenna that mounts
directly to the bottom of the ERT Gateway Mesh housing to support the customer's backhaul
data requirements.
Caution: This equipment has been designed and approved per FCC and ISED
rules to operate with these antennas. To reduce potential radio interference to
other users, the antenna type and its gain were chosen so that the equivalent
isotropically radiated power (e.i.r.p.) is not more than that permitted for successful
communication. Antennas not included in this list and approved by Itron are strictly
prohibited for use with this device. Installing the Routing Node ERT Gateway with
an unapproved antenna will void the product warranty and can void the user's
authority to operate this equipment.
■Internal Wi-Fi antenna:The Wi-Fi antenna is used for local access to the device. The
effective range is approximately 100 feet from the front (1) of the ERT Gateway Mesh and
approximately 50 feet to the rear (2) of the device. The shown coverage area assumes the
device is mounted at a height of 25 feet with a clear line-of-sight path between the ERT
Gateway Mesh and the programming device.
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3
Planning an ERT Gateway Installation
This chapter describes ERT Gateway installation preparation and planning.
Installation Profiles
The ERT Gateway may be installed in a variety of configurations and locations (for more
information, see Installation location information on page 3). Itron identified the following
profiles for ERT Gateway installations.
Location Location description
Utility pole The ERT Gateway is installed on a utility pole.
Light pole/street
light
The ERT Gateway is installed on either a light pole or the davit arm of the street
light.
Pipe or mast The ERT Gateway is secured/installed to a pipe or fence railing (from 2 to 3.5
inches in diameter).
Siting the ERT Gateway
ERT Gateways can be installed in the field on a variety of surfaces. Examples of siting surfaces
include:
■wooden or metal walls
■metal pipes
■fence railings
■utility poles
In determining the ERT Gateway placement, observe the following primary considerations. Best
practices are to site the ERT Gateway:
■For optimum RF reception.
■In a location where there is a power connection.
■On a structure or in a location that can physically support the weight of the ERT Gateway
(and its mounting hardware).
Caution: Always get permission to install the ERT Gateway at the selected site prior
to installation. If you have questions or need help, contact Itron Support.
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Installation Location Information
The ERT Gateway is designed for the listed installation locations:
■Wood, concrete, or metal utility pole
■Wall (indoor or outdoor)
■Pipe or mast (between 2 and 3.5" in diameter)
■Roof
Note: Roof installation requires a 3rd-party, non-penetrating mounting kit (for example,
Tessco #461587)
■Other vertical structures
Note: To achieve optimal RF performance the ERT Gateway Mesh should be mounted at
the height recommended by Itron’s Global Network Design Center (GNDC).
Integrated mounting and coupling brackets secure the device in high winds and under heavy ice
loads. Consult a professional engineer with concerns about your ERT Gateway Mesh mounting
location.
The ERT Gateway Mesh consists of several components in a single, weatherproof device.
Electrical components are encased in a plastic enclosure that provides optimum safety for the
installer.
Warning! In accordance with FCC rules, unapproved modifications or operation
beyond or in conflict with these use instructions could void the user's authority to
operate the equipment. Only authorized Itron personnel may open the ERT Gateway.
Unauthorized access or modifications to the ERT Gateway will void the warranty.
Propagation Study for the ERT Gateway Installation Site
Prior to the ERT Gateway field installation, contact Itron. Itron performs a propagation study to:
■evaluate the quantity and types of network endpoints.
■assess the environmental and geographical considerations for the ERT Gateway
installation.
■optimize the ERT Gateway placement within the network to get the best possible reception.
■assess the physical and structural implications of the selected mounting surface.
The propagation study provides the information to determine the exact ERT Gateway installation
location and the best mounting surface. This iterative process may be repeated as the final
installation parameters are determined.
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Routing Node ERT® Gateway Mesh Installation Guide 3 Planning an ERT Gateway Installation

AC Power Requirements
The ERT Gateway Mesh requires an 85-264 VAC source defined as a 10 Amp or 15 Amp
branch circuit that must be protected by a certified branch circuit breaker.
Warning! Do not connect the ERT Gateway to a circuit protected by a GFCI breaker.
The wiring must be sized in accordance with the National Electrical Code, ANSI/NFPA 70 and,
where applicable, the Canadian Electrical Code, Part I, CSA C22.1 or the prevailing local code.
Mounting Hardware Requirements
Mounting hardware requirements are based on the installation location and your system
configuration. The installer must supply the following mounting hardware to properly attach the
ERT Gateway to the mounting surface.
Caution: Each installation is unique. You must ensure the mounting hardware
securely supports the ERT Gateway. The ERT Gateway without the mounting
hardware weighs 8 pounds. Itron recommends you consult a qualified engineer to
verify load requirements and safety issues. Installers must comply with local codes
when the ERT Gateway is installed.
Profile Mounting
surface
Suggested hardware/sizing
Utility
pole
Wood or
steel pole
High-strength stainless steel straps
Light
pole
Steel light
pole
High-strength stainless steel straps
Pipe 2.5" to 3.5"
galvanized
steel pipe
Two pipe mount brackets for pipes up to 3.5" in diameter. Pipe mount
brackets are available from Itron (part number FAB-0192-001). Two
brackets are required for each ERT Gateway.
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Routing Node ERT® Gateway Mesh Installation Guide 3 Planning an ERT Gateway Installation

4
Installing the ERT Gateway
This chapter provides the Itron-approved instructions to install an ERT Gateway in the field. The
ERT Gateway can be installed in a variety of locations. This installation profile uses AC mains
power.
Note: Before the ERT Gateway installation, ensure that the selected location will support the
weight of the gateway and its mounting hardware. Engage a registered engineer to conduct
a structural analysis of the installation location prior to the installation. Itron is not responsible
for improper installation or for installation at a site that cannot adequately support the ERT
Gateway.
Installation Overview
This ERT Gateway installation profile describes installation mounting the gateway to a 2- inch
vertical pipe. The ERT Gateway power source is a 110V AC mains supply. Installation tasks
include:
1. Attaching the 915MHz ERT antenna.
2. Attaching the 915MHz WAN antenna.
3. Installing the battery
4. Attaching the ERT Gateway to the mounting surface.
5. Connecting the power cable.
Do not move or transport the ERT Gateway without first disconnecting the power. Use the
ERT Gateway shipping packaging to transport the device to protect the equipment.
6. Supplying power.
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Installing the Battery
1. Remove the battery cover by loosening the four screws securing it.
These are captive screws and do not need to be fully removed from the battery cover.
2. Plug in the four pin battery wiring harness. The harness should snap into place, providing a
secure connection.
3. Slide the battery into the battery compartment.
4. Replace the battery compartment cover, and torque the screws to 6 inch-pounds.
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Routing Node ERT® Gateway Mesh Installation Guide 4 Installing the ERT Gateway

Attaching the ERT Antenna
Warning! Install only the provided ERT antenna.
1. Remove the antenna from the shipping package.
2. Verify that the foam seal is seated in the N-connector cavity on the top of the ERT Gateway.
3. Thread the antenna onto the top of the ERT Gateway. Do not over-tighten.
Important! Do not over-tighten or cross-thread the ERT antenna.
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Routing Node ERT® Gateway Mesh Installation Guide 4 Installing the ERT Gateway

Attaching the WAN Antenna
Warning! Install only the provided WAN antenna.
1. Remove the WAN antenna from the shipping box.
2. Thread the WAN antenna onto the N-connector (labeled WAN) on the bottom of the ERT
Gateway.
Important! Do not over-tighten or cross-thread the WAN antenna.
Mounting the ERT Gateway
The ERT Gateway can attach to a variety of locations. The following sections provide mounting
instructions for:
■Pipe mount
■Pole mount
■Davit arm mount
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Routing Node ERT® Gateway Mesh Installation Guide 4 Installing the ERT Gateway