MDS LEDR 400S Original operating instructions

Installation & Operation Guide
P/N 05-3627A01, Rev. D
JANUARY 2003
Covering LEDR 400S/F, 700S, 900S/F, 1400S/F Models
Including Protected (1+1) and Space Diversity Versions
LEDR Series
Digital Microwave Radios
Microwave Data Systems Inc.

LEDR Series radios are supplied from the factory in matched pairs and are configured to user’s specifi-
cations. There are a few steps necessary to place the pair on-the-air communicating with each other.
Once this is done, system-specific parameters will need to be reviewed and changed to match your
requirements. Below are the basic steps for installing the LEDR radio. For more detailed instructions,
please see “INITIAL STARTUP AND CONFIGURATION” on page 25. When making cable connections,
refer to Section 3.6, Rear Panel Connectors , on page 17 for a rear panel view of the radio.
1. Install and connect the antenna system to the radio
• Ensure a path study has been conducted and that the radio path is acceptable.
• Use good quality, low loss coaxial cable.Keep the cable as short as possible.
• Preset directional antennas in the direction of desired transmission/reception.
2. Connect the data equipment to the rear panel data interface
• The data interface should be an RJ-45 connector for Fractional-T1, Fractional-E1, or E1, and a
DB-25 connector for EIA-530.
• Verify the customer premises data equipment is configured as DTE. (By default, the LEDR radio is
configured as DCE.)
3. Apply DC power to the radio
• Verify that the line voltage matches the power supply input range (typically 24 Vdc or 48 Vdc).
• The power connector is a three-pin keyed connector. The power source can be connected with
either polarity. The center conductor is not connected.
• Ensure the chassis Ground lug is connected to an appropriate ground point.
4. Change SUPER password and set up user access
• Login to Network Management System, using the password
SUPER
.
(See
“login” on page 68
.)
• Change the password using the
PASSWD
command. (
See “passwd” on page 72.
)
• Set up required users, passwords and access levels using the
USER
command, as required.
(
See “user” on page 86.
)
5. Set the radio’s basic configuration using front panel or Console interface
• Set the transmit/receive frequencies (
TX xxx.xxxx
/
RX xxx.xxxx
) if they need to be changed from the
factory settings.(See
“freq” on page 59
.)
• Refer to this manual for other configuration settings.
6. Verify and set the following parameters as necessary to allow data throughput and intercon-
nection with the network.
• RF transmit and receive frequencies. (See
“freq” on page 59
.)
• Radio modulation type and data rate parameters. (
See “modem” on page 71.
).
• Data interface clocking. (
See “clkmode” on page 55.
).
• Data framing. (
See “fstruct” on page 59.
).
Quick-Start instructions continued on the rear cover of this manual.
QUICK-START GUIDE

MDS 05-3627A01, Rev. D LEDR Series I/O Guide i
TABLE OF CONTENTS
1.0 INTRODUCTION ..................................................................................................................1
1.1 Product Description .......................................................................................................................1
1.2 LEDR Features ..............................................................................................................................2
1.3 Typical Applications .......................................................................................................................3
1.4 Protected Configuration .................................................................................................................3
2.0 MODEL NUMBER CODES...................................................................................................4
3.0 HARDWARE INSTALLATION AND BASIC INTERFACE REQUIREMENTS........................7
3.1 Introduction ....................................................................................................................................7
3.2 General Requirements ..................................................................................................................7
Site Selection...................................................................................................................................8
Terrain and Signal Strength .............................................................................................................8
On-the-Air Test.................................................................................................................................9
A Word About Interference...............................................................................................................9
3.3 Antenna and Feedline Selection ..................................................................................................10
Antennas........................................................................................................................................10
Feedlines .......................................................................................................................................11
3.4 Radio Mounting ...........................................................................................................................13
Maximizing RSSI............................................................................................................................13
Attaching the Rack Mounting Brackets..........................................................................................13
3.5 Front Panel ..................................................................................................................................14
Indicators, Text Display and Navigation Keys.................................................................................14
Connectors.....................................................................................................................................16
3.6 Rear Panel Connectors ...............................................................................................................17
Connector Locations......................................................................................................................17
Ground Stud...................................................................................................................................18
Antenna/TX—RF Connector..........................................................................................................18
RX—RF Connector........................................................................................................................18
G.703/Expansion Data...................................................................................................................19
Ethernet .........................................................................................................................................19
EIA-530-A ......................................................................................................................................20
Service Channel ............................................................................................................................20
Alarm I/O........................................................................................................................................21
DC Power Input (Primary Power)...................................................................................................22
Protected Configuration Connections............................................................................................23
3.7 Bandwidths, Data Rates and Modulation Types ..........................................................................23
3.8 Transmit Clock Selection (Subrate Radios Only) .........................................................................24
4.0 INITIAL STARTUP AND CONFIGURATION.......................................................................25
4.1 Introduction ..................................................................................................................................25

ii LEDR Series I/O Guide MDS 05-3627A01, Rev. D
4.2 STEP 1—Power up the LEDR Radios .........................................................................................25
4.3 STEP 2—Establish Communications with the Radio ..................................................................26
4.4 STEP 3—Make Initial Login to Radio ..........................................................................................26
4.5 STEP 4—Change the SUPER Password ....................................................................................27
4.6 STEP 5—Review Essential Operating Parameters .....................................................................28
4.7 STEP 6—Set TCP/IP Settings to Enable SNMP and/or Telnet Management (if required) ..........29
4.8 STEP 7—Set User Configurable Fields .......................................................................................29
4.9 STEP 8—Verify Radio Performance ............................................................................................29
4.10 STEP 9—Install the Link ...........................................................................................................29
4.11 STEP 10—Verify the Link Performance ....................................................................................29
5.0 CONFIGURATION AND CONTROL VIA THE FRONT PANEL...........................................29
5.1 Front Panel LCD Menu Descriptions ...........................................................................................32
CONSOLE .....................................................................................................................................32
Default Screen ...............................................................................................................................32
Diagnostics ....................................................................................................................................32
Front Panel.....................................................................................................................................33
G.821.............................................................................................................................................33
General..........................................................................................................................................34
IO Configuration.............................................................................................................................35
Line Configuration..........................................................................................................................36
Login..............................................................................................................................................38
Logout............................................................................................................................................38
Modem...........................................................................................................................................38
Network..........................................................................................................................................39
Orderwire.......................................................................................................................................40
Performance...................................................................................................................................40
Redundant .....................................................................................................................................41
Remote Status...............................................................................................................................42
RF Configuration............................................................................................................................42
6.0 CONFIGURATION AND CONTROL VIA THE CONSOLE PORT ......................................43
6.1 Introduction ..................................................................................................................................43
6.2 Initial Connection to the CONSOLE Port .....................................................................................44
6.3 NMS Commands .........................................................................................................................44
Command Entry Hints—Recalling Commands..............................................................................44
6.4 Command Detailed Descriptions .................................................................................................48
Introduction....................................................................................................................................48
6.5 Disabling the Front Panel Alarm LED for Unused E1 Option Ports .............................................88
7.0 STANDARDIZING RADIO CONFIGURATIONS..................................................................90
7.1 Introduction ..................................................................................................................................90
7.2 Setup byTFTP .............................................................................................................................91
Finding IP Addresses.....................................................................................................................91
Downloading Procedure.................................................................................................................91
Uploading Procedure.....................................................................................................................91
7.3 Setup Through the DB-9 CONSOLE Port ...................................................................................92

MDS 05-3627A01, Rev. D LEDR Series I/O Guide iii
8.0 UPGRADING LEDR FIRMWARE.......................................................................................93
8.1 Introduction ..................................................................................................................................93
8.2 OPTION 1: Uploading Firmware via the CONSOLE Port ............................................................94
Setup..............................................................................................................................................94
Download Procedure .....................................................................................................................94
Verification and Reboot..................................................................................................................94
8.3 OPTION 2: Uploading Firmware Locally by Telnet via Ethernet ..................................................95
Setup..............................................................................................................................................96
Download Procedure .....................................................................................................................96
Verification and Reboot..................................................................................................................97
8.4 OPTION 3: Uploading Firmware from a Remote Server via Ethernet .........................................97
Setup..............................................................................................................................................97
Download Procedure .....................................................................................................................98
Verification and Reboot..................................................................................................................99
9.0 USING ORDERWIRE .........................................................................................................99
9.1 Introduction ..................................................................................................................................99
9.2 Setup ...........................................................................................................................................99
9.3 Operation ...................................................................................................................................100
9.4 Related NMS Commands ..........................................................................................................101
10.0 USING THE SERVICE CHANNEL..................................................................................101
10.1 Concept ...................................................................................................................................101
10.2 Setup .......................................................................................................................................101
10.3 Usage ......................................................................................................................................102
10.4 NMS Commands .....................................................................................................................102
11.0 PROTECTED CONFIGURATION...................................................................................103
11.1 Introduction ..............................................................................................................................103
11.2 Protected Operation ................................................................................................................104
Transmitter Failure .......................................................................................................................104
Receiver Failure...........................................................................................................................105
11.3 Configuration Options—Warm or Hot Standby ........................................................................105
11.4 PSC Rear Panel Connectors ...................................................................................................105
RxA..............................................................................................................................................106
RxB..............................................................................................................................................106
Antenna........................................................................................................................................106
TxA...............................................................................................................................................106
TxB...............................................................................................................................................106
Protected (Data)...........................................................................................................................106
E1.................................................................................................................................................106
Ethernet .......................................................................................................................................106
530 (A&B) ....................................................................................................................................106
EIA-530-A ....................................................................................................................................107
Service Channel ..........................................................................................................................107
11.5 Inter-Unit Cabling for Protected Stations .................................................................................107
11.6 Configuration Commands for a Protected System ..................................................................108

iv LEDR Series I/O Guide MDS 05-3627A01, Rev. D
Redundant Specific Parameters ..................................................................................................109
Sample Redundant Configuration Session..................................................................................109
Transmit Clock Selection (Subrate Models Only).........................................................................110
12.0 SPACE DIVERSITY OPERATION...................................................................................111
12.1 Introduction ..............................................................................................................................111
12.2 User Interface & Control ..........................................................................................................111
12.3 Transmit Clock Selection .........................................................................................................111
12.4 Inter-Unit Cabling for Space Diversity Stations ........................................................................112
13.0 SPARE PARTS, UNITS AND ACCESSORIES................................................................113
13.1 Spares .....................................................................................................................................113
13.2 Accessories .............................................................................................................................114
14.0 Fractional-T1 INTERFACE CARD 03-3846A01
Fractional-E1 INTERFACE CARD 03-3846A02........................................................................115
14.1 Introduction ..............................................................................................................................115
14.2 Fractional-T1/E1 Performance .................................................................................................115
14.3 Configurable Parameters .........................................................................................................116
Timeslots and Framing.................................................................................................................116
Line Codes...................................................................................................................................116
Diagnostics ..................................................................................................................................117
Clocking.......................................................................................................................................117
14.4 Field Installation of the FT1 Interface Board ............................................................................117
15.0 INCREASE BANDWIDTH BY CHANGING TRANSMITTER AND RECEIVER FILTERS.....
120
15.1 Introduction ..............................................................................................................................120
15.2 Filter Removal and Replacement ............................................................................................120
15.3 Software Commands ...............................................................................................................122
16.0 BENCH TESTING OF RADIOS......................................................................................122
17.0 TECHNICAL REFERENCE.............................................................................................123
17.1 Specifications—
Models: LEDR 400S, 700S, 900S and 1400S ...................................................................................123
17.2 Specifications—
Models: LEDR 400F, 900F, 1400F .....................................................................................................125
17.3 Specifications—
Protected Switch Chassis ..................................................................................................................126
17.4 Optional Equipment (Consult factory for detailed information) ................................................126
17.5 Accessories .............................................................................................................................127
17.6 I/O Connector Pinout Information ............................................................................................127
Orderwire—Front Panel ...............................................................................................................127
CONSOLE Port—Front Panel......................................................................................................127
Ethernet—Rear Panel..................................................................................................................128

MDS 05-3627A01, Rev. D LEDR Series I/O Guide v
EIA-530-A Data—Rear Panel ......................................................................................................128
G.703 Data Connectors (4)—Rear Panel ....................................................................................128
Service Channel—Rear Panel.....................................................................................................129
Alarm—Rear Panel......................................................................................................................129
17.7 Watts-dBm-Volts Conversion ...................................................................................................129
18.0 RADIO EVENT CODES..................................................................................................130
19.0 IN CASE OF DIFFICULTY..............................................................................................138
19.1 FACTORY TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE ...................................................................................138
19.2 FACTORY REPAIRS ................................................................................................................139
To Our Customers
We appreciate your patronage. You are our business. We promise to serve and anticipate your needs. We will strive to
give you solutions that are cost effective, innovative, reliable and of the highest quality possible. We promise to build
a relationship that is forthright and ethical, one that builds confidence and trust.
Copyright Notice
This document and all software described herein are protected by copyright. Copyright 2003, Microwave Data Sys-
tems Inc. All rights reserved. Trademarks held by other companies used in this publication are acknowledged to be
property of the holder.
Antenna Installation Warning
1. All antenna installation and servicing is to be performed by qualified technical personnel only. When servicing
the antenna, or working at distances closer than those listed in the tables below, ensure the transmitter has been
disabled.
2. Typically, the antenna connected to the transmitter is a directional (high gain) antenna, fixed-mounted on the
side or top of a building, or on a tower. Depending upon the application and the gain of the antenna, the total com-
posite power could exceed 20 to 50 watts EIRP. The antenna location should be such that only qualified technical
personnel can access it, and that under normal operating conditions no other person can touch the antenna or
approach within 4.34 meters of the antenna. This is a worst case scenario derived from maximum permissible exposure evaluation
Exposure
RF
for GeneralPopulation/UncontrolledExposureusingmaximum permitted antenna gain(30dBi) for LEDRSeries

vi LEDR Series I/O Guide MDS 05-3627A01, Rev. D
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 Services group using the information at the back of this
guide. Microwave Data Systems reserves its right to correct any errors and omissions. Updated information may also
be available on our Web site at www.microwavedata.com .
Distress Beacon Warning
In the U.S.A., the 406 to 406.1 MHz band is reserved for use by distress beacons. Since the LEDR 400 radio is capable
of transmitting in this band, take precautions to prevent the radio from transmitting between 406 to 406.1 MHz.
RF Emissions
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class A digital device, pursuant to Part 15
of the FCC Rules or ETSI specification ETS 300 385, as appropriate. These limits are designed to provide reasonable
protection against harmful interference when the equipment is operated in a commercial environment. This equipment
generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instruction
manual, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. Operation of this equipment in a residential area
may to cause harmful interference in which case the user will be required to correct the interference at his own expense.
Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance could void the user’s
authority to operate the equipment.

MDS 05-3627A01, Rev. D LEDR Series I/O Guide 1
1.0 INTRODUCTION
This manual is intended to help an experienced technician install, con-
figure, and operate one of the digital radios in the MDS LEDR Series:
400S/F, 700S, 900S/F or 1400S/F. The manual begins with an overall
description of product features and is followed by the steps required to
install the radio and place it into normal operation.
Afterinstallation,wesuggestkeeping this guide near theradioforfuture
reference.
1.1 Product Description
The LEDR radio (Figure 1) is a full-duplex, point-to-point digital radio
operating in one of three radio frequency bands and at several band-
widths as summarized in Table 1.
With the addition of an optional Fractional-T1 Interface card, a
LEDR 700S or 900S Series radio can be connected to industry-standard
G.703 T1 data interface equipment. See Page 115 for a complete
description of the Fractional-T1, Fractional-E1 and Full Rate E1
options.
All LEDR Series radios (with the exception of the 700S) are available
in a protected “1+1” configuration. The protected configuration consists
oftwoidentical LEDRradiosand aProtectedSwitch Chassis(Figure 2).
The protected configuration performs automatic switchover to a sec-
ondary radio in the event of a failure in the primary unit. See PRO-
TECTED CONFIGURATION on Page 103 for detailed information on
this mode.
Table 1. Key LEDR Radio Characteristics
MODEL(S) BANDWIDTH(S) FREQ. RANGE INTERFACE
LEDR 400S 25/50/100/200 kHz 330-512 MHz FE1
FT1
EIA-530
LEDR 400F 0.5/1/2 MHz 330-512 MHz E1/G.703
LEDR 700S 25/50/100/200 kHz 746-794 MHz EIA-530
LEDR 900S 25/50/100/200 kHz 800-960 MHz FE1
FT1
EIA-530
LEDR 900F 0.5/1/2 MHz 800–960 MHz E1/G.703
LEDR 1400S 25/50/100/200 kHz 1350–1535 MHz FE1
FT1
EIA-530
LEDR 1400F 0.5/1/2 MHz 1350–1535 MHz E1/G.703

2 LEDR Series I/O Guide MDS 05-3627A01, Rev. D
In addition, the LEDR Series is available in a space-diversity configura-
tion to allow dual receive paths to improve system availability. See
SPACE DIVERSITY OPERATION on Page 111 for detailed informa-
tion.
1.2 LEDR Features
• General— Common to all models
• Network Management via SNMPc version 1
• Protected Operation (1+1) Compatible
• 1.0 Watt Transmit Power
• Space-Efficient Rack Size (1RU)
• Rugged, Reliable Design
• Voice Orderwire (DTMF compliant)
• Service Channel (Data)
• Subrate Models—LEDR 400S/700S/900S/1400S
• 64, 128, 256, 384, 512* and 768* kbps Data Rates
• 12 x 64 kbps Data Rate with the FT1 or FE1 Interface Board
(LEDR radio with optional PCB installed)
* Contact factory for availability of these rates on the
LEDR 700S.
• Fullrate Models—LEDR 400F/900F/1400F
• 1 x E1 to 4 x E1 data rates
Invisible place holder
Figure 1. The LEDR Digital Radio

MDS 05-3627A01, Rev. D LEDR Series I/O Guide 3
1.3 Typical Applications
• Point-to-point transmission applications
• Cost-effective, “thin route” applications
• Long haul telecommunications links
• Cellular backhaul
• Last-mile links
• Trunked radio links
• SCADA systems
1.4 Protected Configuration
A second configuration of the LEDR product is the protected configu-
ration in which two LEDR radios are monitored and controlled by a
third unit, the Protected Switch Chassis shown in Figure 2. This unit
provides a gateway for data and radio frequency paths to the LEDR data
radio transceivers. Unit performance is continuously measured and
should it fall below user-definable standards, the offline LEDR radio
will automatically be placed online and an alarm condition generated
that can be remotely monitored. Additional details for Protected Config-
urations are given in Section 11.0 on Page 103.
Invisible place holder
Figure 2. LEDR Protected Switch Chassis (PSC)

4 LEDR Series I/O Guide MDS 05-3627A01, Rev. D
2.0 MODEL NUMBER CODES
The complete radio model number is printed on the serial number label
affixedtothechassis. The following seriesoffigures(Figure 3, Figure 4
and Figure 5) show the significance of each character in the LEDR 400,
900 and 1400 model number string, respectively. Contact the factory for
LEDR 700S data, and for information on optional configurations.
Invisible place holder
Figure 3. LEDR 400 Series Model Number Codes
MODEL NUMBER CODES
ARE SUBJECT TO
CHANGE.
DO NOT USE FOR
ORDERING PRODUCTS.
MODES
N= None; EIA -530 *
1=Not Used
2 = None; E1/Fractional-E1
3 = 1 + 1 EIA-530 *
4=Not Used
5 = 1 + 1 E1/Fractional-E1
6 = Space Diversity EIA-530 *
7=Not Used
8 = Space Diversity E1/Fract. E1
* Available in subrate radios
PROTECTED/STANDBY
N= None *
W= Warm @
H= Hot @
* With Modes N, 2
@With Modes 3–8
LL
LLEE EEDD DDRR RR 44 4400 0000 00
CLASS
S =Subrate
F =Fullrate
DUPLEXER
N= None (Optional External) *
1 = 300–400 MHz *
2 = 400–520 MHz *
3 = 300–400 MHz; Protected @
4 = 400–520 MHz; Protected @
5 = 300–400 MHz; Space Diversity #
6 = 400–520 MHz; Space Diversity #
* Only available with Modes N, 2
@Only available with Modes 3, 5
BANDWIDTH
A = 25 kHz *
B = 50 kHz *
C= 100 kHz *
D= 200 kHz *
E = 500 kHz @
F = 1 MHz @ %
G= 2 MHz @ %
% See Note 2
@Only available with Fullrate radios
NOTES
1.TX and RX frequencies are limited to the range of the
subband indicated in fields 10 and 11.
2.TX and RX frequency separation is 27 MHz (minimum)
TRANSMIT FREQ.
A = 330–380 MHz
B = 380–400 MHz
C= 400–462 MHz
D= 462–512 MHz
REGULATORY
CERTIFICATION
N =Not Applicable
F =FCC/IC
RX SPLITTER
N= None *
S = Symmetrical 3 dB @
* With Modes N, 2
@ With Modes 3–8
INPUT VOLTAGE
1 = 24 Vdc
2 = 48 Vdc
RECEIVE FREQ.
1 = 330–380 MHz
2 = 380–400 MHz
3 = 400–462 MHz
4 = 462–512 MHz

MDS 05-3627A01, Rev. D LEDR Series I/O Guide 5
Invisible place holder
Figure 4. LEDR 900 Series Model Number Codes
MODEL NUMBER CODES
ARE SUBJECT TO
CHANGE.
DO NOT USE FOR
ORDERING PRODUCTS.
MODES
N= None; EIA-530*
1 = None; Fractional-T1*
2 = None; Fractional-E1%
3 = 1 + 1 EIA=530*
4 = 1 + 1 Fractional-T1*
5 = 1 + 1 Fractional-E1
6 = Space Diversity EIA-530
7 = Space Diversity T1
8 = Space Diversity; Fractional-E1
* = Available in subrate radios
% = Available in fullrate radios
PROTECTED/STANDBY
N= None *
W= Warm @
H= Hot @
* With Modes N, 2
LL
LLEE EEDD DDRR RR 99 9900 0000 00
DUPLEXER
N= None (Optional External) *
1 = 9 MHz *
2 = 3.6 MHz (External) None *
3 = 760 MHz; None *
4 = 9 MHz; (Internal) Redundant @
5 = 3.6 MHz; (External) Redundant @
6 = 76 MHz; (Internal) Redundant @
7 = 9 MHz; (Internal) Space Diversity #
8 = 3.6 Mhz; (Internal) Space Diversity #
9 = 76 MHz; (Internal) Space Diversity #
* Only available with Modes N, 1
@Only available with Modes 3, 4
#Only available with Modes 6, 7
BANDWIDTH
A = 25 kHz *%
B = 50 kHz *%
C= 100 kHz *%
D= 200 kHz%
E = 500 kHz@
F = 1 MHz@
G= 2 MHz@
* = Not available with Modes 1, 4, 7
% = Only available in subrate radios
@ = Only available in fullrate radios
NOTES
1.TX and RX frequencies are limited to the range of the
TRANSMIT FREQ.
A = 800–860 MHz
B = 860–900 MHz
C= 900–960 MHz
REGULATORY
CERTIFICATION
N =Not Applicable
F =FCC/IC
RX SPLITTER
N= None *
S = Symmetrical 3 dB @
* With Modes N, 1
@With Modes 3–8
INPUT VOLTAGE
1 = 24 Vdc
2 = 48 Vdc
RECEIVE FREQ.
1 = 800–860 MHz
2 = 860–900 MHz
3 = 900–960 MHz
See Note 1
CLASS
S = Subrate
F = Fullrate

6 LEDR Series I/O Guide MDS 05-3627A01, Rev. D
Invisible place holder
Figure 5. LEDR 1400 Series Model Number Codes
MODEL NUMBER CODES
ARE SUBJECT TO
CHANGE.
DO NOT USE FOR
ORDERING PRODUCTS.
DUPLEXER
N= None (Optional External) &
R= None (Wired for External) Redundant *
1 = Internal &
2 = Internal; Space Diversity %
* Only available with Modes 3, 5
%Only available with Modes 6, 8
&Only available with Modes N, 2
MODES
N= None; EIA=530 *
1=Not Used
2 = None; E1/ Fractional-E1
3 = 1 + 1 EIA-530 *
4=Not Used
5 = 1 + 1 E1/ Fractional-E1
6 = Space Diversity EIA-530 *
7=Not Used
8 = Space Divers. E1/Frac. E1
* Available in subrate radios
CLASS
S =Subrate
F =Fullrate
BANDWIDTH
A = 25 kHz *
B = 50 kHz *
C= 100 kHz *
D= 200 kHz *
E = 500 kHz @
F = 1 MHz @
G= 2 MHz @
@Only available with Fullrate radios
* Only available with Subrate radios
REGULATORY
CERTIFICATION
N =Not Applicable
E =ETS 300 630,
ETS 300 385,
MPT 1717
RX SPLITTER
N= None *
S = Symmetrical 3 dB @
* With Modes N, 2
@With Modes 3–8
INPUT VOLTAGE
1 = 24 Vdc
2 = 48 Vdc
LL
LLEE EEDD DDRR RR 11 1144 4400 0000 00
PROTECTED/STANDBY
N= None *
W= Warm @
H= Hot @
* With Modes N, 2
@With Modes 3–8

MDS 05-3627A01, Rev. D LEDR Series I/O Guide 7
3.0 HARDWARE INSTALLATION AND
BASIC INTERFACE
REQUIREMENTS
3.1 Introduction
Installation of the LEDR radio transceiver is not difficult, but it does
requiresomeplanningtoensure optimalefficiencyand reliability.There
are two major installation objectives; first, obtain good radio communi-
cations between LEDR sites, and second, configure the data interface to
complement your data equipment.
This section provides information to assist you in successfully com-
pleting the first phase of installation. You will find tips for selecting an
appropriate site, choosing antennas and feedlines, minimizing the
chance of interference, and the basics of equipment installation. This
material should be reviewed before beginning the radio hardware equip-
ment installation.
When the radio installation is successfully complete, you will need to
address the data interface and operational configuration of the LEDR
radio. It is likely that the radio has been configured by the factory to
meet your basic data interface requirements. Please review the factory
documentation accompanying your shipment for the radios current con-
figuration.
What ever your situation, it is recommended you review the material in
the rest of the manual to gain insight to additional configuration options
and user functions.
3.2 General Requirements
There are four main requirements for installing the radio transceiver—a
suitable installation environment, adequate and stable primary power, a
good antenna system, and the correct interface between the transceiver
and the external data equipment. Figure 6 shows a typical station
arrangement.

8 LEDR Series I/O Guide MDS 05-3627A01, Rev. D
Invisible place holder
Figure 6. Typical Station Arrangement
Site Selection
For a successful installation, careful thought must be given to selecting
proper sites for the radios and antenna systems. Suitable sites should
offer:
• An antenna location that provides an unobstructed path in the
direction of the associated station
• A source of adequate and stable primary power
• Suitable entrances for antenna, interface or other required
cabling
• Adequate clearance around the radio for ventilation
Theserequirementscanbequicklydetermined in most cases. A possible
exception is the first item—verifying that an unobstructed transmission
path exists. Microwave radio signals travel primarily by line-of-sight,
and obstructions between the sending and receiving stations will affect
system performance.
If you are not familiar with the effects of terrain and other obstructions
on radio transmission, the following discussion will provide helpful
background.
Terrain and Signal Strength
A line-of-sight path between stations is highly desirable, and provides
the most reliable communications link in all cases. A line-of-sight path
can often be achieved by mounting each station antenna on a tower or
other elevated structure that raises it to a level sufficient to clear sur-
rounding terrain and other obstructions.
GRID DISH
ANTENNA
LOW LOSS
COAXIAL CABLE
TO DC
POWER SOURCE
(24 or 48 Vdc as appropriate)
DATA INTERFACE
LEDR RADIO
CHASSIS GROUND

MDS 05-3627A01, Rev. D LEDR Series I/O Guide 9
The requirement for a clear transmission path depends upon the distance
to be covered by the system. If the system is to cover only a limited dis-
tance, say 5 km (3.1 miles), then some obstructions in the transmission
path may be tolerable. For longer-range systems, any obstruction could
compromise the performance of the system, or block transmission
entirely.
The signal strength at the receiver must exceed the receiver sensitivity
by an amount known as the fade margin to provide reliable operation
under various conditions.
Detailed information on path planning should be reviewed before begin-
ninganinstallation.Computersoftwareis also available for this purpose
that can greatly simplify the steps involved in planning a path.
Microwave Data Systems offers path analysis (for paths in the USA) as
an engineering service. Contact the factory for additional information.
On-the-Air Test
If you’ve analyzed the proposed transmission path and feel that it is
acceptable, an on-the-air test of the equipment and path should be con-
ducted. This not only verifies the path study results, but allows you to
see firsthand the factors involved at each installation site.
The test can be performed by installing a radio at each end of the pro-
posed link and checking the Received Signal Strength Indication (RSSI)
value reported at the front panel LCD screen of each radio. If adequate
signal strength cannot be obtained, it may be necessary to mount the sta-
tion antennas higher, use higher gain antennas, or select a different site
for one or both stations.
A Word About Interference
Interference is possible in any radio system. However, since the LEDR
radio is designed for use in a licensed system, interference is less likely
because frequency allocations are normally coordinated with consider-
ation given to geographic location and existing operating frequencies.
The risk of interference can be further reduced through prudent system
design and configuration. Allow adequate separation between frequen-
cies and radio systems.
C/I Curves A carrier to interference (C/I) curve can help in frequency and space
coordination. The information in this curve can aid greatly in helping
plan geographic locations and frequency usage for radio systems. Con-
tact the factory for additional information on carrier to interference
curves. A white paper (publication no. 05-3638A01) on the subject is
available from MDS at www.microwavedata.com. Search for the term
“LEDR” under the manuals download area to see this, and all other pub-
lications pertaining to the LEDR series.

10 LEDR Series I/O Guide MDS 05-3627A01, Rev. D
Keep the following points in mind when setting up your point-to-point
system:
1. Systems installed in lightly populated areas are least likely to
encounter interference; those in urban and suburban environments
are more likely to be affected by other devices operating in the
radio’s frequency band and adjacent services.
2. Directional antennas must be used at each end of a point-to-point
link. They confine the transmission and reception pattern to a com-
paratively narrow beam, which minimizes interference to and from
stations located outside the pattern. The larger the antenna, the more
focused the transmission and reception pattern and the higher the
gain.
3. If interference is suspected from another system, it may be helpful
to use antenna polarization that is opposite to the interfering sys-
tem’s antennas. An additional 20 dB (or more) of attenuation to
interference can be achieved by using opposite antenna polarization.
Refer to the antenna manufacturer’s instructions for details on
changing polarization.
3.3 Antenna and Feedline Selection
Antennas
The antenna system is perhaps the most crucial part of the system
design. An antenna system that uses poor quality feedline, or is improp-
erly aligned with the companion site, will result in poor performance, or
no communication at all.
A directional antenna must be used for point-to-point systems to mini-
mize interference both to and from nearby systems. In general, cylin-
dricalordish typeantennaswitha parabolicreflectormust be used.Yagi
or corner reflector types may be acceptable in some applications. Check
government regulations for your region.
The exact style of antenna used depends on the size and layout of a
system. In most cases, a directional “dish” type of antenna is used with
the radio (Figure 7). Dish antennas maximize transmission efficiency
and restrict the radiation pattern to the desired transmission path.

MDS 05-3627A01, Rev. D LEDR Series I/O Guide 11
Invisible place holder
Figure 7. Typical Grid Dish Antenna
Table 2 lists common grid dish antenna sizes and their approximate
gains. Note: Each antenna is designed to operate within only one fre-
quency band.
MDS can furnish antennas for use with your LEDR radio. Consult your
sales representative for details.
Feedlines
For maximum performance, a good quality feedline must be used to
connect the radio transceiver to the antenna. For short-range transmis-
sion, or where very short lengths of cable are used (up to 8 Meters/26
Feet), an inexpensive coax cable such as Type RG-213 may be accept-
able.
For longer cable runs, or for longer-range communication paths, we rec-
ommend using a low-loss cable suited for the frequency band of opera-
tion. Helical transmission lines, such as Andrew Heliax
™
or other
high-quality cable will provide the lowest loss and should be used in
systems where every dB counts. Whichever type of cable is used, it
should be kept as short as possible to minimize signal loss.
Remember that cable loss increases in direct proportion to the transmis-
sion frequency used. This means that a system operating at 900 MHz
will experience more cable loss than one operating at 400 MHz.
Table 2. Dish antenna size vs. approximate gain (dBi)
Antenna Size
Meters (feet) 400 MHz Gain 700 MHz Gain 900 MHz Gain 1400 MHz Gain
1.2 Meters
(4 feet) 13.1 dBi 15.85 dB 18.4 dBi 23.7 dBi
2.0 Meters
(6 feet) 16.3 dBi 19.05 dB 22.0 dBi 26.1 dBi
3.0 Meters
(10 feet) 19.6 dBi 22.35 dB 26.4 dBi 30.6 dBi
4.0 Meters
(12 feet) 22.2 dBi 24.95 dB 28.0 dBi 32.1 dBi

12 LEDR Series I/O Guide MDS 05-3627A01, Rev. D
The following tables (3, 5, 6and 6) can be used to select an acceptable
feedline. A table is provided for each of the three bands for which the
LEDR radios are available.
Table 3. Feedline Loss Table (450 MHz)
Cable Type 3.05 Meters (10 Feet) 15.24 Meters (50 Feet) 30.48 Meters (100 Feet) 152.4 Meters (500 Feet)
RG-8A/U 0.5 dB 2.5 dB 5.1 dB 25.4 dB
1/2 in. HELIAX 0.1 dB 0.8 dB 1.5 dB 7.6 dB
7/8 in. HELIAX 0.1 dB 0.4 dB 0.8 dB 4.2 dB
1-1/4 in. HELIAX 0.1 dB 0.3 dB 0.6 dB 3.1 dB
1-5/8 in. HELIAX 0.1 dB 0.3 dB 0.5 dB 2.6 dB
Table 4. Feedline Loss Table (700 MHz)
Cable Type 3.05 Meters (10 Feet) 15.24 Meters (50 Feet) 30.48 Meters (100 Feet) 152.4 Meters (500 Feet)
RG-8A/U 0.7 dB 3.4 dB 6.8 dB 34.0 dB
1/2 in. HELIAX 0.2 dB 1.0 dB 1.9 dB 9.5 dB
7/8 in. HELIAX 0.1 dB 0.5 dB 1.1 dB 5.3 dB
1-1/4 in. HELIAX 0.1 dB 0.4 dB 0.8 dB 3.9 dB
1-5/8 in. HELIAX 0.1 dB 0.3 dB 0.7 dB 3.3 dB
Table 5. Feedline Loss Table (960 MHz)
Cable Type 3.05 Meters (10 Feet) 15.24 Meters (50 Feet) 30.48 Meters (100 Feet) 152.4 Meters (500 Feet)
RG-8A/U 0.9 dB 4.3 dB 8.5 dB
unacceptable
loss
1/2 in. HELIAX 0.2 dB 1.2 dB 2.3 dB 11.5 dB
7/8 in. HELIAX 0.1 dB 0.6 dB 1.3 dB 6.4 dB
1-1/4 in. HELIAX 0.1 dB 0.5 dB 1.0 dB 4.8 dB
1-5/8 in. HELIAX 0.1 dB 0.4 dB 0.8 dB 4.0 dB
Table 6. Feedline Loss Table (1400 MHz)
Cable Type 8 Meters (26 Feet) 15 Meters (49 Feet) 30 Meters (98 Feet) 61 Meters (200 Feet)
RG-213 3.0 dB 6.0 dB 12.1 dB 24.1 dB
1/2 in. HELIAX 0.7 dB 1.5 dB 2.9 dB 5.9 dB
7/8 in. HELIAX 0.4 dB 0.8 dB 1.7 dB 3.3 dB
1-5/8 in. HELIAX 0.3 dB 0.3 dB 1.1 dB 2.1 dB