MDS MDS iNET-II 900 User manual

User s Guide
MDS 05-2806A01, Rev. F
MARCH 2006
Wireless IP/Ethernet Transceiver
iNET-II 900 Firmware Release 1
iNET 900 Firmware Release 6
MDS iNET Series
MDS iNET-II 900TM
MDS iNET 900TM
Microwave Data Systems Inc.

POWER SUPPLY
13.8 VDC @ 580 mA (Max.)
(10.5–30 Vdc)
Negative Ground Only
DATA TERMINAL
EQUIPMENT OR
LAN/WAN
COMPUTER
W/TERMINAL
EMULATOR
TRANSCEIVER
LOW-LOSS FEEDLINE
QUICK-ST
QUICK-START INSTRUCTIONS ART INSTRUCTIONS
ANTENNA
SYSTEM
INSTALLATION SUMMARY
Step 1 – Mount the Transceiver
Step 2 – Install the Antenna
Step 3 – Measure & Connect Primary Power (10.5–30 Vdc)
Step 4 – Review the transceiver’s Configuration
Device Mode—Access Point, or Remote (Default)
Network Name—Unique name for each radio network.
Required for Remotes to associate with Access Point.
IPAddress—Must be a unique number to allow for IP access
through the Ethernet Port.
NOTE: A unique IP address is essential to access the browser-based
Management System.
RF Output Power—Adjust as necessary for regulatory compliance.
(Default = 1 Watt /+30 dBm)
Password—Used for remote access and some Management System
features. (Default = admin)
Step 5 – Connect the Data Equipment
Connect the data equipment to data port(s):
•LAN—10BaseT Ethernet-compatible equipment:
Ethernet Hub (Straight-Through Cable); Ethernet Node (Crossover)
•COM2—Serial, RS/EIA-232 compatible equipment
•COM1—Management System (Default); Serial (Alternate)
The Management System can be accessed through the COM1 Port using a terminal session on a PC. The basic items listed below,
along with many other parameters & tools can be accessed through this method. HTTP, Telnet access, and changing some parameters
are controlled by password.
BASIC CONFIGURATION DEFAULTS
Step 6 – Check for Normal Operation
•Observe the transceiver LED status panel for the proper indications. In a normally operating system, the following LED indications
will be seen within 30 seconds of power-up:
PWR—Lights continuously LAN—On or blinks intermittently LINK— On or blinks intermittently (Remotes: if associated)
• Use PING command to test basic data link integrity between Access Point and Remotes.
• If the PING command is successful, connect the RTU/data equipment to the data port and verify normal operation.
•If the LINK LED on Remotes is not on after 20 to 30 seconds, the unit has failed to associate with the Access Point. It may be
necessary to reposition or redirect the radio’s antenna for better reception/signal strength.
•Check connected data equipment for normal operation
TYPICAL INSTALLATION
Detailed instructions for setting transceiver parameters are contained in Section 3 of this manual.
VALUES/RANGE
• Remote
•Access Point
•1–8 alphanumeric characters
•Case-sensitive; can be mixed case
• 1–16 alphanumeric characters
• Case-sensitive; can be mixed case
Contact your Network Administrator
20–30 dBm @ 50Ω(0.1–1.0 Watt)
DEFAULT
Remote
admin
(lower case)
"Not Programmed"
192.168.1.1
+30 dBm (1.0 Watt)
ITEM MGT SYSTEM MENU
Device Mode Network Configuration
Unit Password Device Information
Network Name Network Configuration
IP Address Network Configuration
RF Output Power Radio Configuration

MDS 05-2806A01, Rev. F iNET Series User’s Guide i
TABLE OF CONTENTS
1PRODUCT OVERVIEW AND APPLICATIONS .......... 1
1.1 PRODUCT DESCRIPTION................................................................................................... 3
1.1.1 Model Offerings ..........................................................................................................................5
1.1.2 Differences Between iNET and iNET-II ......................................................................................6
1.2 APPLICATIONS .................................................................................................................... 6
1.2.1 Wireless LAN ..............................................................................................................................6
1.2.2 Point-to-Point LAN Extension .....................................................................................................7
1.2.3 Backhaul for Serial Radio Networks ...........................................................................................7
1.2.4 Multiple Protocols and/or Services .............................................................................................8
1.2.5 Wireless LAN with Mixed Services .............................................................................................9
1.2.6 Upgrading Older Wireless Network with
Serial Interfaces ..................................................................................................................................10
1.2.7 High-Speed Mobile Data ..........................................................................................................10
1.3 NETWORK DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS.......................................................................... 11
1.3.1 Extending Network Coverage with Repeaters .......................................................................... 11
1.3.2 Protected Network Operation using Multiple Access Points .....................................................13
1.3.3 Collocating Multiple Radio Networks ........................................................................................13
1.4 MDS CYBER SECURITY SUITE........................................................................................ 14
1.5 ACCESSORIES .................................................................................................................. 16
2 TABLETOP EVALUATION AND TEST SETUP ....... 19
2.1 OVERVIEW......................................................................................................................... 21
2.2 STEP 1 INSTALL THE ANTENNA CABLING ................................................................... 21
2.3 STEP 2 MEASURE & CONNECT THE PRIMARY POWER ............................................ 22
2.4 STEP 3 CONNECT PC TO THE TRANSCEIVER............................................................ 22
2.5 STEP 4 REVIEW TRANSCEIVER CONFIGURATION .................................................... 23
2.5.1 Getting Started .........................................................................................................................23
2.5.2 Procedure .................................................................................................................................23

ii iNET Series User’s Guide MDS 05-2806A01, Rev. F
2.5.3 Basic Configuration Defaults ....................................................................................................23
2.6 STEP 5 CONNECT LAN AND/OR SERIAL EQUIPMENT ............................................... 24
2.7 STEP 6 CHECK FOR NORMAL OPERATION................................................................. 25
3 EMBEDDED MANAGEMENT SYSTEM ................... 27
3.1 MS INTRODUCTION .......................................................................................................... 29
3.1.1 Differences in the User Interfaces ............................................................................................29
3.2 ACCESSING THE MENU SYSTEM ................................................................................... 31
3.2.1 Methods of Control ...................................................................................................................32
3.2.2 PC Connection & Log In Procedures .......................................................................................32
3.2.3 Navigating the Menus ...............................................................................................................37
3.3 BASIC DEVICE INFORMATION......................................................................................... 38
3.3.1 Starting Information Screen ......................................................................................................38
3.3.2 Main Menu ................................................................................................................................39
3.3.3 Configuring Basic Device Parameters ......................................................................................40
3.4 CONFIGURING NETWORK PARAMETERS ..................................................................... 42
3.4.1 Network Configuration Menu ....................................................................................................42
3.4.2 IP Address Configuration Menu ................................................................................................44
3.4.3 Ethernet Port Configuration Menu ............................................................................................45
3.4.4 DHCP Server Configuration ..................................................................................................... 46
3.4.5 SNMP Agent Configuration .......................................................................................................48
3.5 RADIO CONFIGURATION.................................................................................................. 50
3.5.1 Radio Configuration Menu ......................................................................................................50
3.5.2 Mobile Data Configuration ........................................................................................................57
3.6 CONFIGURING THE SERIAL INTERFACES ..................................................................... 60
3.6.1 Overview ..................................................................................................................................60
3.6.2 Serial Data Port Configuration Menu ........................................................................................63
3.6.3 Configuring for UDP Mode .......................................................................................................64
3.6.4 Configuring for TCP Mode ........................................................................................................67
3.6.5 Configuring for PPP Mode ........................................................................................................70
3.6.6 IP-to-Serial Application Example ..............................................................................................71
3.6.7 Point-to-Point Serial-to-Serial Application Example .................................................................72
3.6.8 Point-to-Multipoint Serial-to-Serial Application Example ..........................................................73
3.6.9 Mixed Modes ............................................................................................................................75
3.7 CYBER SECURITY CONFIGURATION ............................................................................. 77
3.7.1 Device Security ........................................................................................................................77

MDS 05-2806A01, Rev. F iNET Series User’s Guide iii
3.7.2 Wireless Security ......................................................................................................................79
3.7.3 RADIUS Authentication ............................................................................................................81
3.7.4 RADIUS Configuration .............................................................................................................82
3.7.5 Certificate Management (Remote transceivers only) ...............................................................83
3.8 PERFORMANCE VERIFICATION ...................................................................................... 84
3.8.1 Performance Information Menu ................................................................................................84
3.8.2 Network Performance Notes ....................................................................................................95
3.9 MAINTENANCE.................................................................................................................. 99
3.9.1 Reprogramming Menu ............................................................................................................100
3.9.2 Configuration Scripts Menu ....................................................................................................105
3.9.3 Authorization Keys Menu ........................................................................................................ 114
3.9.4 Auto-Upgrade/Remote-Reboot Menu ..................................................................................... 114
3.9.5 Radio Test Menu ..................................................................................................................... 115
3.9.6 Ping Utility Menu .................................................................................................................... 117
3.9.7 Reset to Factory Defaults ....................................................................................................... 117
4 TROUBLESHOOTING AND
RADIO MEASUREMENTS .....................................119
4.1 TROUBLESHOOTING...................................................................................................... 121
4.1.1 Interpreting the Front Panel LEDs ..........................................................................................121
4.1.2 Troubleshooting Using the Embedded Management System ................................................122
4.1.3 Using Logged Operation Events ............................................................................................126
4.1.4 Alarm Conditions .................................................................................................................... 126
4.1.5 Correcting Alarm Conditions ...................................................................................................128
4.1.6 Logged Events .......................................................................................................................129
4.2 RADIO (RF) MEASUREMENTS ....................................................................................... 131
4.2.1 Antenna System SWR and Transmitter Power Output ........................................................... 132
4.2.2 Antenna Aiming ......................................................................................................................133
5 PLANNING A RADIO NETWORK .......................... 135
5.1 INSTALLATION PLANNING ............................................................................................. 137
5.1.1 General Requirements ...........................................................................................................137
5.1.2 Site Selection .........................................................................................................................139
5.1.3 Terrain and Signal Strength ....................................................................................................139
5.1.4 Antenna & Feedline Selection ................................................................................................140
5.1.5 How Much Output Power Can be Used? ...............................................................................143
5.1.6 Conducting a Site Survey .......................................................................................................143
5.1.7 A Word About Radio Interference ........................................................................................... 144
5.2 dBm-WATTS-VOLTS CONVERSION CHART.................................................................. 147

iv iNET Series User’s Guide MDS 05-2806A01, Rev. F
6 TECHNICAL REFERENCE ..................................... 149
6.1 DATA INTERFACE CONNECTORS ................................................................................. 151
6.1.1 LAN Port .................................................................................................................................151
6.1.2 COM1 Port .............................................................................................................................152
6.1.3 COM2 Port .............................................................................................................................152
6.2 FUSE REPLACEMENT PROCEDURE ............................................................................ 153
6.3 TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS ....................................................................................... 154
6.4 CHANNEL HOP TABLE .................................................................................................... 157
6.5 SNMP USAGE NOTES..................................................................................................... 159
6.5.1 Overview ................................................................................................................................159
7 GLOSSARY OF TERMS & ABBREVIATIONS ....... 165
Copyright Notice
This publication is protected by U.S.A. copyright law. Copyright 2006, Microwave Data Systems,
Inc. All rights reserved.
ISO 9001 Registration
Microwave Data Systems adheres to the internationally-accepted ISO 9001 quality system stan-
dard.
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.
What Products are Covered in this Manual?
This manual covers two members of the MDS iNET Transceiver Series, both of which are designed
to be operated under the FCC s Part 15 license-free rules. The iNET radio is a Frequency Hopping
Spread Spectrum (FHSS) transceiver that operates at data speeds of 256 and 512 kbps.
The iNET-II is a similar design, but it is certified under the Digital Transmission System (DTS)
provisions of FCC Part 15 and can operate at data speeds of 512 or 1024 kbps. Operational differ-
ences between these two models are identified, as necessary, in this manual.
NOTE: MDS iNET and MDS iNET-II transceivers are not over-the-air compatible.

MDS 05-2806A01, Rev. F iNET Series User’s Guide v
Other MDS i NET 900 Series Documentation
Installation Guide
The associated MDS i NET 900 Series Installation Guide, P/N 05-2873A01, is
provided with the transceiver and is limited to essential information needed for installers. The
installation guide assumes some guidance to installers will be provided by the readers of this
manual. This includes such things as antenna selection, radio communication site survey tools and
techniques, and network design.
Related Materials on the Internet
Data sheets, frequently asked questions, case studies, applica-
tion notes, firmware upgrades and other updated information is available on the MDS Web site at
www.microwavedata.com.
About Microwave Data Systems Inc.
Almost two decades ago, MDS began building radios for business-critical applications. Since then,
we ve installed nearly 100,000,000 radios in over 110 countries. To succeed, we overcame impass-
able terrain, brutal operating conditions and disparate, complex network configurations. We also
became experts in wireless communication standards and system applications worldwide. The
result of our efforts is that today, thousands of utilities around the world rely on MDS-based wire-
less networks to manage their most critical assets.
The majority of MDS radios deployed since 1985 are still installed and performing within our cus-
tomers’ wireless networks. That s because we design and manufacture our products in-house,
according to ISO 9001 which allows us to control and meet stringent global quality standards.
Thanks to our durable products and comprehensive solutions, MDS is the wireless leader in indus-
trial automation including oil and gas production and transportation, water/wastewater treat-
ment, supply and transportation, electric transmission and distribution and many other utility
applications. MDS is also at the forefront of wireless communications for private and public infra-
structure and online transaction processing. Now is an exciting time for MDS and our customers
as we look forward to further demonstrating our abilities in new and emerging markets.
As your wireless needs change you can continue to expect more from MDS. We’ll always put the
performance of your network above all. Visit us at www.microwavedata.com for more informa-
tion.
OPERATIONAL & SAFETY NOTICES
UL/CSA Notice
This product is available for use in Class 1, Division 2, Groups A, B, C & D Hazardous Locations. Such locations are
defined in Article 500 of the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) publication NFPA 70 , otherwise known as
the National Electrical Code.
The transceiver has been recognized for use in these hazardous locations by two independent agencies Underwriters
Laboratories (UL) and the Canadian Standards Association (CSA). The UL certification for the transceiver is as a Rec-
ognized Component for use in these hazardous locations, in accordance with UL Standard 1604. The CSA Certifica-
tion is in accordance with CSA STD C22.2 No. 213-M1987.
Professional installation required. The radio equipment described in this guide emits radio
frequency energy. Although the power level is low, the concentrated energy from a direc-
tional antenna may pose a health hazard. Do not allow people to come closer than 23 cm
(9 inches) to the antenna when the transmitter is operating in indoor or outdoor environ-
ments. More information on RF exposure is on the Internet at
www.fcc.gov/oet/info/documents/bulletins .
RF Exposure

vi iNET Series User’s Guide MDS 05-2806A01, Rev. F
UL/CSA Conditions of Approval: The transceiver is not acceptable as a stand-alone unit for use in the hazardous
locations described above. It must either be mounted within another piece of equipment which is certified for
hazardous locations, or installed within guidelines, or conditions of approval, as set forth by the approving agencies.
These conditions of approval are as follows:
The transceiver must be mounted within a separate enclosure which is suitable for the intended application.
The antenna feedline, DC power cable and interface cable must be routed through conduit in accordance with the
National Electrical Code.
Installation, operation and maintenance of the transceiver should be in accordance with the transceiver’s installation
manual, and the National Electrical Code.
Tampering or replacement with non-factory components may adversely affect the safe use of the transceiver in haz-
ardous locations, and may void the approval.
A power connector with screw-type retaining screws as supplied by MDS must be used.
Do not disconnect equipment unless power has been switched off or the area is known to
be non-hazardous.
Refer to Articles 500 through 502 of the National Electrical Code (NFPA 70) for further
information on hazardous locations and approved Division 2 wiring methods.
FCC Part 15 Notices
The transceiver series 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 undesired operation. This device is specifically designed to be used under Section 15.247
of the FCC Rules and Regulations. Any unauthorized modification or changes to this device without the express
approval of Microwave Data Systems may void the user s authority to operate this device. Furthermore, the iNET
Series is intended to be used only when installed in accordance with the instructions outlined in this manual. Failure
to comply with these instructions may also void the user s authority to operate this device.
Part 15 rules also require that the Effective Isotropic Radiated Power (EIRP) from an MDS iNET Series installation
not exceed 36 dBm. Refer to Antenna & Feedline Selection on Page 140 for more information.
Industry Canada RSS Notices
Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) this device may not cause interference, and (2) this device
must accept any interference, including interference that may cause undesired operation of the device.
To reduce potential radio interference to other users, the antenna type and its gain should be chosen so that the Equiv-
alent Isotropic Radiated Power (EIRP) is not more than that permitted for successful communication.
This device as been designed to operate with the antennas listed below, and having a maximum gain of 12 dB.
Antennas not included in this list or having a gain greater than 12 dB are strictly prohibited for use with this device.
The required antenna impedance is 50 ohms. Refer to Table 5-3 on Page 146 for a list of antennas acceptable for use
with this transceiver.
Manual Revision and Accuracy
This manual was prepared to cover a specific version of firmware code. Accordingly, some screens and features may
differ from the actual unit you are working with. While every reasonable effort has been made to ensure the accuracy
of this publication, product improvements may also 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 Cus-
tomer Service Team using the information at the back of this guide. In addition, manual updates can often be found on
the MDS Web site at www.microwavedata.com.
EXPLOSION
HAZARD!

MDS 05-2806A01, Rev. F iNET Series User’s Guide vii
Environmental Information
The manufacture of this equipment has required the extraction and use of natural resources. Improper disposal may
contaminate the environment and present a health risk due to hazardous substances contained within. To avoid dissem-
ination of these substances into our environment, and to limit the demand on natural resources, we encourage you to
use the appropriate recycling systems for disposal. These systems will reuse or recycle most of the materials found in
this equipment in a sound way. Please contact MDS or your supplier for more information on the proper disposal of
this equipment.

viii iNET Series User’s Guide MDS 05-2806A01, Rev. F

MDS 05-2806A01, Rev. F iNET Series User’s Guide 1
1
PRODUCT OVERVIEW
AND APPLICATIONS
1 Chapter Counter Reset Paragraph
Contents
1.1 PRODUCT DESCRIPTION ..................................................... 3
1.1.1 Model Offerings ........................................................................ 5
1.1.2 Differences Between iNET and iNET-II .................................... 6
1.2 APPLICATIONS ....................................................................... 6
1.2.1 Wireless LAN ........................................................................... 6
1.2.2 Point-to-Point LAN Extension .................................................. 7
1.2.3 Backhaul for Serial Radio Networks ........................................ 7
1.2.4 Multiple Protocols and/or Services ........................................... 8
1.2.5 Wireless LAN with Mixed Services ........................................... 9
1.2.6 Upgrading Older Wireless Network with
Serial Interfaces .................................................................................. 10
1.2.7 High-Speed Mobile Data .......................................................... 10
1.3 NETWORK DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS .............................. 11
1.3.1 Extending Network Coverage with Repeaters ......................... 11
1.3.2 Protected Network Operation using Multiple Access Points .... 13
1.3.3 Collocating Multiple Radio Networks ....................................... 13
1.4 MDS CYBER SECURITY SUITE............................................. 14
1.5 ACCESSORIES ....................................................................... 16

2 iNET Series User’s Guide MDS 05-2806A01, Rev. F

MDS 05-2806A01, Rev. F iNET Series User’s Guide 3
1.1 PRODUCT DESCRIPTION
The MDS i NET 900 transceiver provides an easy-to-install wireless
local area network (WLAN) service with long range and secure opera-
tion. It supports both Ethernet and serial data interface options at
over-the-air data speeds of up to 1 Mbps (iNET-II) and 512 kbps
( i NET).
NOTE: For information on the MDS i NET 900 ENI, which provides
expanded gateway and protocol conversion capabilities not
found in the MDS i NET 900 (DF1 to EIP, and MODBUS to
MODBUS TCP conversions), refer to the MDS iNET/ENI
Supplement (05-4131A01).
Invisible place holder
Figure 1-1. The MDS iNET 900 Transceiver
Rugged Packaging The transceiver is housed in a compact and rugged cast-aluminum case
that need only be protected from direct exposure to the weather. It con-
tains a single printed circuit board with all necessary components for
radio operation and data communications. The only user-serviceable
component inside the case is a fuse on the DC power input line.
Simple Installation Most installations employ an omni-directional antenna at the Access
Point (AP) location and a directional antenna at each Remote unit. The
antenna is a vital link in the system and must be chosen and installed
correctly. Consult INSTALLATION PLANNING on Page 137 for guid-
ance on choosing suitable installation sites and antennas.
For basic services, simply connect an antenna, connect your Ethernet
LAN to the transceiver’s LAN port, apply primary power, set a few oper-
ating parameters, and you are done. No license is required for operation
in the U.S.A., Canada, and many other countries. Check requirements
for your region before placing the transceiver in service.
Secure Operation Data network security is a vital issue in today's wireless world. The
iNET Series radios provide multiple tools to help you build a network
that minimizes the risk of eavesdropping and unauthorized access. Some
are inherent in the radio's operation, such as the use of 900 MHz
spread-spectrum transmissions; others include data encryption, en-

4 iNET Series User’s Guide MDS 05-2806A01, Rev. F
abling/disabling remote access channels, and password protection.
Remember, security is not a one-step process that can simply be turned
on and forgotten. It must be practiced and enforced at multiple levels,
24 hours-a-day and 7 days-a-week. See “MDS CYBER SECURITY
SUITE” on Page 14 for more information about the transceiver’s secu-
rity tools.
Robust Radio
Operation The transceiver is designed for frequency-hopping spread-spectrum
operation in the license-free 900 MHz Industrial, Scientific, and Med-
ical (ISM) band. It can provide reliable communications at distances up
to 25 miles (40 km) over favorable terrain, even in the presence of weak
signals or interference. Frequency hopping allows the transceiver to
avoid interference from other transmitters in the same band, and pro-
vides frequency diversity for more reliable transmission. The
over-the-air MAC increases reliability by adding retries to failed mes-
sages.
The iNET-II transceiver, which is certified to operate under DTS rules
(hopping not required), also hops in order to achieve the same benefits
that are realized with the iNET transceiver which is certified under
FHSS rules.
Flexible Services Users with a mixture of equipment having Ethernet and serial data inter-
faces can choose to use one or two of the user-configurable serial ports
through the use of a Remote Dual Gateway. This flexibility allows the
transceiver to provide services in data networks that are being migrated
from legacy serial/EIA-232-based hardware to the faster and more
easily interfaced Ethernet world.
Flexible
Management Configuration, commissioning, troubleshooting and other maintenance
activities can be done locally or remotely. Four different modes of
access are available: local RS-232 console, local or remote IP access
(via Telnet or SSH), web browser (HTTP, HTTPS, and SNMP
(v1/v2/v3). The text-based interface (RS-232 console Telnet and SSH)
is implemented in the form of easy-to-follow menus, and the terminal
server configuration includes a wizard to help you set up the units cor-
rectly.
Transceiver
Features The transceiver’s design makes the installation and configuration easy,
while allowing for changes in the future.
• Long Range—Up to 25 miles (40 km) in line-of-sight condi-
tions. Repeater stations may be used to extend the operational
range. (Refer to TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS on Page 154
for more detailed information on range.)
• Industrial-Grade Product—Extended temperature range for
trouble-free operation in extreme environments
•Robust Radio Communications—Designed to operate in dense,
high-interference environments

MDS 05-2806A01, Rev. F iNET Series User’s Guide 5
• Robust Network Security—Prevents common attack schemes
and hardware from gaining access or control of network. Com-
mon attack events logged and reported by alarms.
• High Speed—1 Mbps (iNET-II) is 100-times faster than 9.6
kbps radios. (iNET transceiver speed is 512 kbps).
• Plug-and-Play Connectivity—Ethernet bridge configuration
option requires minimal setup
• Serial Ports—Gateway for serial-based equipment to IP/Ether-
net networks with embedded terminal server. Site-to-site con-
figurations are also possible.
• Single hardware package provides configuration as Access
Point or Remote
1.1.1 Model Offerings
The transceiver comes in two primary models—Access Point and
Remote. Three types of Remote Gateways are available—the Ethernet
Bridge, the Serial Gateway, and the Dual Gateway supporting both
IP/Ethernet and serial services. Table 1-1 summaries the different inter-
face abilities for each type.
A unit can be configured by the owner to operate as an Access Point or
as a Remote with some restrictions. Only the Dual Gateway Remote
units can be reconfigured as an Access Point. Ethernet Bridge and a
Serial Gateway Remotes cannot be reconfigured as Access Point unless
they are first upgraded to Dual Gateway type. This is accomplished with
an “Authorization Key” purchased from the factory. Each one of these
individual software keys is associated with the serial number of the cor-
responding unit.
Table 1-1. Transceiver Models and Data Interface Services
Model Type LAN1COM11COM2
Access Point3N/A Yes Yes Yes
Remote… Ethernet
Bridge2
Yes No No
Serial
Gateway2
No Yes Yes
Dual Gateway3Yes Yes Yes
NOTES
1. Provides access to the embedded Management System on all units.
2. Can be upgraded to Dual Gateway with an Authorization Key.
3. Can be configured as an Access Point or Dual Gateway through the
embedded Management System.

6 iNET Series User’s Guide MDS 05-2806A01, Rev. F
1.1.2 Differences Between iNET and iNET-II
The iNET and iNET-II Transceivers, while similar in many respects, do
have some key differences. The main differences are summarized in
Table 1-2:
Table 1-2. Transceiver Differences (iNET vs. iNET-II)
NOTE: The MDS iNET and MDS iNET-II transceivers are not
over-the-air compatible.
1.2 APPLICATIONS
The following sections provide illustrations of typical transceiver instal-
lations. This is meant as an overview only. It is recommended that a net-
work manager be involved in all installation planning activities.
1.2.1 Wireless LAN
The wireless LAN is the most common application of the transceiver. It
consists of a central control station (Access Point) and one or more asso-
ciated Remote units, as shown in Figure 1-2 on Page 7. A LAN provides
communications between a central WAN/LAN and remote Ethernet
segments. The operation of the radio system is transparent to the com-
puter equipment connected to the transceiver.
The Access Point is positioned at a location from which it can commu-
nicate with all of the Remote units in the system. Commonly, this is a
high location on top of a building or communications tower. Messages
are exchanged at the Ethernet level. This includes all types of IP traffic.
A Remote transceiver can only talk over-the-air to an Access Point unit
(AP). Peer-to-peer communications between Remotes can only take
place indirectly via the AP. In the same fashion, an AP can only talk
over-the-air to associated Remote units. Exception: Two APs can com-
municatewitheachother“off-the-air”throughtheirEthernetconnectors
using a common LAN/WAN.
Characteristic iNET iNET-II
Data Rate 256/512 kbps 512 kbps/1 Mbps
FCC Certification
Type
FHSS DTS
Encryption RC4-128 AES-128
Channel size 316.5 kHz 600 kHz
Channel operation Zones Channels
Firmware Specific for iNET Specific for iNET-II

MDS 05-2806A01, Rev. F iNET Series User’s Guide 7
Invisible place holder
Figure 1-2. Typical Wireless LAN
1.2.2 Point-to-Point LAN Extension
A point-to-point configuration (Figure 1-3) is a simple arrangement
consisting of an Access Point and a Remote unit. This provides a com-
munications link for the transfer of data between two locations.
Invisible place holder
Figure 1-3. Typical Point-to-Point Link
1.2.3 Backhaul for Serial Radio Networks
One of the primary design features of the transceiver is to provide a path
for serial devices to migrate to IP/Ethernet. Many radio networks in
operation today still rely on serial networks at data rates of 9600 bps or
less. These networks can use the transceiver as a means to continue
using the serial service, while allowing the rest of the infrastructure to
migrate to an IP format.
A Remote transceiver using one serial port for the data stream, and the
other for network-wide diagnostics can support operational radio net-
works built with MDS serial-based radios, such as MDS x790/x710,
MDS TransNET and others. In the case of radios using a single port for
data and diagnostics, the capabilities are doubled. The data streams are
delivered to an IP socket in an application, or in serial format using the
Access Point.
Remote
Remote
Access Point
Remote
Remote LAN
LAN
WAN/LAN
LAN
LAN
LAN/WAN
Access Point Remote
LAN

8 iNET Series User’s Guide MDS 05-2806A01, Rev. F
Invisible place holder
Figure 1-4. Backhaul Network
1.2.4 Multiple Protocols and/or Services
Prior to the iNET Series, two radios were often used to service two dif-
ferent types of devices (typically connected to different SCADA hosts).
An iNET or iNET-II radio provides this functionality with a single
remote radio. Each of the two serial ports can be connected via IP to dif-
ferent SCADA hosts, transporting different (or the same) protocols.
Both data streams are completely independent and the transceiver pro-
vides seamless simultaneous operation as shown in Figure 1-5 on
Page 8.
Invisible place holder
Figure 1-5. Multiple Protocol Network
By using a single radio, the cost of deployment is cut in half. Beyond
requiringonlyone radio instead oftwo,thebiggestcostreduction comes
Data
Data
MDS 4790
Master
MDS 9790
Master
MDS 9810
Master
Diagnostics
Data
Diagnostics
Diagnostics
MDS 4710 Remote
NMS Control
Point
SCADA Host
Modbus/IP
HUB Access Point
MDS 4710 Remote
MDS 9710 Remote
MDS 9710 Remote
MDS 9810 Remote
MDS 9810 Remote
Remote Serial
Remote Serial
Remote Serial
NETWORK
ROUTER
ROUTER
Serial
Device
Serial
Device
Serial
Device
Serial
Device
Serial
Device
Serial
Device
NETview SCADA Host
Total Flow
Access Point
Remote Serial
Remote Serial
SCADA Host
Modbus/IP
Remote Serial
Access Point
RTU
Flow Meter
EIA-232
EIA-232
EIA-232
EIA-232
EIA-232
EIA-232
ROUTER
HUB
Serial
Device
Serial
Device
Serial
Device
Serial
Device
HUB
HUB
HUB
WAN

MDS 05-2806A01, Rev. F iNET Series User’s Guide 9
from using half of the required infrastructure at the remote site: one
antenna, one feedline, one lightning protector and ancillary hardware.
Other cost reductions come from the system as a whole, such as reduced
management requirements. And above all, the potential for future appli-
cations that run over Ethernet and IP, such as video for remote surveil-
lance.
1.2.5 Wireless LAN with Mixed Services
The iNET transceiver is an excellent solution for a long-range industrial
wireless LAN. It offers several advantages over commercial solutions—
primarily improved performance over extended distances. The rugged
construction of the radio and its extended temperature range make it an
ideal solution even in harsh locations. In extreme environments, a
simple NEMA enclosure is sufficient to house the unit.
The transceiver trades higher speed for longer range. Commercial
802.11a/b/g solutions are designed to provide service to relatively small
areas such as offices, warehouses and homes. They provide high data
ratesbut have limited range.TheiNETtransmitsat a higherpowerlevel,
uses a different frequency band, has higher sensitivity, and a narrower
channel to concentrate the radio energy and reach farther distances. It is
designed for industrial operation from the ground up.
IP-based devices that may be used with the transceiver include a new
breed of more powerful Remote Terminal Units (RTUs) and Program-
mable Logic Controllers (PLCs). These, as well as other devices, may
be used in applications ranging from SCADA/telemetry monitoring,
web-based video, security monitoring, and voice over IP. Figure 1-6
shows a typical wireless IP network.
Invisible place holder
Figure 1-6. Extended-Range LAN with Mixed Applications
NMS Control
Point
SCADA Host
Modbus/IP
Access Point
Remote Bridge
Printer
Remote Bridge
IP Camera
IP/Ethernet Device
IP/Ethernet Device
IP/Ethernet Device

10 iNET Series User’s Guide MDS 05-2806A01, Rev. F
1.2.6 Upgrading Older Wireless Network with
Serial Interfaces
Millions of wireless data products have been sold in the last two decades
for licensed and license-free operation, many of them manufactured by
MicrowaveDataSystems. There areseveralwaysthatthese systems can
benefit from incorporating iNET equipment. The chief advantages are
interface flexibility (serial and Ethernet in one unit), and higher data
throughput. By taking advantage of its built-in serial and Ethernet inter-
faces, the transceiver is well suited to replace leased lines, dial-up lines,
or existing MAS 900 MHz data transceivers.
Replacing Legacy Wireless Products
In most cases, legacy radio transceivers supporting serial-interface
equipment can be replaced with iNET transceivers. Legacy equipment
can be connected to the transceiver through the COM1 orCOM2 port with
a DB-25 to DB-9 cable wired for EIA-232 signaling. The COM2 port
supports all standard EIA-232 signaling and acts as a data-terminal
equipment device (DTE).
NOTE: Several previous MDS-brand products had non-standard
signal lines on their interface connectors (for example, to
control sleep functions and alarm lines). These special func-
tions are not provided nor supported by the iNET transceiver.
Consult equipment manuals for complete pinout information.
Supplement legacy wireless network with IP services
The iNET Dual Gateway model can support up to two serial devices and
one Ethernet connection at the same time. The serial interfaces (COM1
and COM2) operate in two different modes: Connectionless UDP and
connection-orientated TCP.
In the UDP mode, the transceiver supports point-to-multipoint
serial-port to serial-port connectivity. In the TCP mode, it supports
point-to-point Ethernet/IP to serial port connectivity.
For further details on the transceiver’s Serial Gateway interface modes,
see “CONFIGURING THE SERIAL INTERFACES” on Page 60.
1.2.7 High-Speed Mobile Data
The iNET radios support high-speed data communications in a mobile
environment. Remote radios roam between different access points, pro-
viding seamless transitions and continuous coverage. For additional
information on configuring a mobile network, refer to Mobile Data
Configuration on Page 57.