Mueller Mi.Net User manual

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MI.NET MULTI-NETWORK COLLECTOR
Part Number 880-0214-001
Document Version F
April 2020
Installation and Operation Manual

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CONTENTS
Overview ....................................................................................................................................................................................................... 5
Mi.Net Multi-Network Collector System Description ................................................................................................................................. 5
Base Unit Modules .................................................................................................................................................................................. 7
Module Descriptions............................................................................................................................................................................ 8
Before You Begin ......................................................................................................................................................................................... 9
Safety Considerations ............................................................................................................................................................................. 9
Installation and Operation.........................................................................................................................................................................10
Base Unit Mounting Options .....................................................................................................................................................................12
Table I: Collector Mounting Options ....................................................................................................................................................14
2-1/2" Metal Pipe Mounting: ............................................................................................................................................................14
Utility / Wood Pole Mounting: ...........................................................................................................................................................14
BAND-IT Mounting:.............................................................................................................................................................................14
Flat Building Mounting ......................................................................................................................................................................14
Battery Installation ....................................................................................................................................................................................15
Remote Amplifier Installation ...................................................................................................................................................................16
External Cellular and GPS Antennas ....................................................................................................................................................17
Lightning Protection and Grounding.........................................................................................................................................................18
Power Connections ....................................................................................................................................................................................19
Solar Installations..................................................................................................................................................................................19
AC Installations ..........................................................................................................................................................................................19
Connection Procedure...........................................................................................................................................................................19
Attach Ferrite Filter ............................................................................................................................................................................21
Installation Checklist .............................................................................................................................................................................22
Pre-installation Collector Items.........................................................................................................................................................22
Post-installation Items.......................................................................................................................................................................22
Operation....................................................................................................................................................................................................23
LED Statuses..........................................................................................................................................................................................23
Set Up and Configuration......................................................................................................................................................................24
Appendix I: Mounting Unit with Band-It ....................................................................................................................................................24
Appendix II: Weatherproofing Connections.............................................................................................................................................33
Appendix III: Lightning Protection Recommendations ............................................................................................................................34
Surge protection ....................................................................................................................................................................................34
Grounding...............................................................................................................................................................................................34
Ground Connections:.............................................................................................................................................................................35
Appendix IV: Solar Installation ..................................................................................................................................................................36
Solar Power Installation Notes: ............................................................................................................................................................36
Solar Battery Monitoring Wiring............................................................................................................................................................36

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Solar Battery Alarms..........................................................................................................................................................................36
Solar Battery Signal Wiring................................................................................................................................................................38
Appendix: Compliance Information ..........................................................................................................................................................40
FCC Information.....................................................................................................................................................................................40
IC Information ........................................................................................................................................................................................40
Appendix VI: Maintenance........................................................................................................................................................................42
Replacement Modules ..........................................................................................................................................................................42
Gateway LEDs ........................................................................................................................................................................................43
Troubleshooting Guide ..............................................................................................................................................................................44
Appendix VII: Wiring Diagram...................................................................................................................................................................51
Appendix VIII: Specifications ....................................................................................................................................................................52
Appendix IX: Safety and Product Labels..................................................................................................................................................54
About Mueller Systems..............................................................................................................................................................................55

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OVERVIEW
The Mi.Net Multi-Network Collector is an unattended data collector and gateway device. It is intended for indoor or outdoor use in
advanced metering infrastructure (AMI) monitoring and control applications.
The complete Multi-Network Collector system consists of a base unit and an amplifier -tower top amplifier / antenna unit
(Figure 1).
In typical applications, the collector automatically gathers relevant data from smart metering devices located within the range of
its wireless AMI network interface, for billing or analysis purposes. It transfers this data back to remotely located servers by
means of a cellular or wired Internet connection. The collector also enables devices on its local AMI network to be remotely
controlled or reconfigured through the Internet.
The collector is intended for applications where the antenna unit is installed a significant distance from the base unit,
such as on a tower or pole. A tower top amplifier is included with all collector systems to compensate for signal loss over
the connecting cable.
MI.NET MULTI-NETWORK COLLECTOR SYSTEM DESCRIPTION
The collector system delivers the maximum transmitter output power allowable by law. The collector enhances AMI network
range by enabling installation of the AMI network antenna a considerable distance from the base unit, and at a significant height
above ground level.
Increasing the AMI antenna installation height above ground significantly increases the system’s operating range. However, it is
often desirable to locate the collector base unit close to ground level for easier access to power and serviceability.
The collector system employs a remotely installed amplifier to compensate for losses over the length of the cable. This amplifier
restores transmitter power at the antenna to maximum allowable levels. To achieve optimal system performance, this amplifier is
fitted immediately below the antenna.
The remote amplifier is powered by the base unit through the coax cable connection between the two units. The fixed
collector system incorporates a standard 8dBi antenna. A smaller antenna with 6dBi gain is also available if more suitable
for site conditions.
The remote amplifier unit includes an integral bandpass filter, which attenuates strong out-of-band signals that might otherwise
impair AMI network reception. This allows the remote amplifier and AMI network antenna to be installed in relatively close
proximity (less than 500 meters) to strong sources of potential interference, such as a cellular base station system. Connection
to the remote amplifier is made by connecting the coaxial connector to the lightning arrestor connector as shown in Figure 1.

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Collector base units are housed in an IP-54 rugged polycarbonate enclosure. Power dissipation ranges from 30 watts (typical) to
100 watts (maximum). The 100W case occurs only when a collector’s internal batteries are being recharged following a power
interruption.
All antenna, network, and power connections to the collector base unit are made at the bottom of the enclosure.
Figure 1: Collector Base Unit and TTU remote antenna assembly – antenna not pictured

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BASE UNIT MODULES
The base unit contains 10 modules within its cabinet (see Figure 2). Many of these modules may be replaced in the event of
failure or damage. See Appendix IV for information concerning maintenance and replacement of these modules.
NOTE: Your equipment may vary slightly from photographs in this document.
Figure 2: Mi.Net Multi-Network Collector modules
1. Power Supply
2. Backup Battery
3. AC Circuit
Breaker
4. Battery Circuit
Breaker
5. Gateway
Assembly
6. Cellular Modem
7. Ethernet Jack
(RS-45)
8. Antenna Surge
Protectors
9. Power Surge
Arrestor
10. Power Terminals

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MODULE DESCRIPTIONS
1.
Power Supply
- Converts the electrical main’s power to +12v (13v - 14v nominal) required to operate the collector
electronics. The power supply also charges the 12v backup battery and maintains a float charge to ensure the battery
is fully charged in the event of a power outage.
2.
Backup Battery
– Is used to run the collector in the event of a power outage. The battery is a 12v, lead-acid type and
can operate the collector up to 20 hours under normal conditions. Run-time will be less in colder conditions or if the
battery is at the end of its life span (approximately 4 years). For optimum results, the battery should be replaced every
4 years or sooner.
3.
AC Circuit Breaker
– A 15Amp circuit breaker is included to protect against over-current faults on the AC power mains.
Used with the Battery Breaker, it may also be used to switch off the power to the collector electronics. Switch off both
breakers to ensure power is removed from the collector electronics.
4. DC Circuit Breaker
– A 15Amp circuit breaker is included to protect against over-current faults on the battery power
supply. Used with the AC Circuit Breaker -it may also be used to switch off the power to the collector electronics.
Switch off both breakers to ensure power is removed from the collector electronics.
5.
Gateway Assembly
– Performs many functions within the collector. Its functions include:
• Receiving and sending messages to the population of installed nodes
• Processing and aggregating data from nodes to be sent to the host server
• Monitoring functional health of the collector modules
• Providing status indicators
6.
Cellular Modem
- Transfers data between the gateway and the server / host system via the cellular / internet network.
7.
Ethernet Jack
- Provides an Ethernet link to transfer the gateway data to / from the server / host system (in place of the
cellular modem).
8.
Antenna Surge Protectors
- Included to protect the collector from nearby lighting strikes.
9.
Power Surge Arrestor
- Included to protect the collector from nearby lighting strikes.
10.
Power Terminals
- Provided to allow connection of the collector to the AC main’s power source.

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BEFORE YOU BEGIN
After you have installed the unit you will work with the Mueller Systems NOC group to perform the steps described in the
Post-installation Items section under Connection Procedure.
SAFETY CONSIDERATIONS
The MNC is powered by 110 - 240VAC power. This voltage can be hazardous. All external power source connections must be
performed by appropriate professionals, who are properly licensed to work within the local jurisdiction.
Collector outdoor installation should only be attempted when weather conditions permit this task to be completed safely.
You must
contact Mueller Systems Network Operations Center (NOC) at least a day in
advance of installation
to ensure a technician will be available to send appropriate test
messages over the network once the unit is installed.

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INSTALLATION AND OPERATION
Carefully remove the collector base unit from its custom shipping container. Afterwards, open the enclosure and carefully
remove the packing materials from the interior. We recommend you retain these materials in the event the unit should need to
be returned for service or upgrade.
All antenna, network, and power connections to the collector base unit are made at the bottom of the enclosure (Figure 3).
Most installations will require only a power and RF antenna connection.
Installations that require a hardwired Ethernet connection will need to install a separate conduit and Cat5e Ethernet cable that
enters the collector cabinet at the labeled entrance on the bottom of the enclosure. Connection of the Ethernet RJ45 connector
is made inside the cabinet at the labeled connector jack (Figure 4).
Installation of a typical collector system consists of 3 major elements:
1. Mounting the base unit enclosure and remote amplifier assembly
2. Connecting the antenna, Ethernet (if required) and ground wires and cables
3. Connecting power to the collector
These processes will be described in the following sections.

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Figure 3: Collector Base Unit physical connections
Figure 4: Ethernet Port

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BASE UNIT MOUNTING OPTIONS
CAUTION
Ensure mounting is performed by trained personnel and complies with all local building codes and safety rules.
The collector base unit installation typically involves mounting the base unit onto a wall, utility pole, or similar object, and may
involve connecting the power to live power lines. Only trained personnel who are properly licensed to work within the local
jurisdiction should perform these installations.
The base unit should be located in an area that complies with the collector temperature range, -40 to +60°C (-40 to +140°F).
A shaded area is recommended. Install the unit in a climate controlled area if these ranges are expected to be exceeded.
The mounting options listed in Table I presume that the collector base unit is attached to the mounting plate furnished with the
unit (see Figure 5). The collector is shipped attached to its mounting plate. Remove the collector from the back plate prior to
installing the mounting plate.
Redundant mounting slots and holes permit one common plate design to provide a variety of mounting options. The use of these
mounting holes and slots allows attachment of the mounting plate to infrastructure using U-bolts, lag bolts (LB in Figure 5) or
steel bands. See Figure 5. Use stainless steel mounting hardware for all installations.

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After successfully installing the mounting plate, the collector may be fitted onto the mounting plate by setting the enclosure on to
the lower lip of the plate, then securing the enclosure with the eight 1/4x20x1” bolts furnished with the unit.
Figure 5: Collector Mounting Plate

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TABLE I: COLLECTOR MOUNTING OPTIONS
MOUNTING STRUCTURE
HARDWARE
SPECIFICATIONS
Utility Pole
5/16 x 2-1/2 tapped Climatek coated screw or
equivalent
4 required
Metal Pole <= 2-
1/2"
U-Bolt (x2)
Torque to 12 lb-ft
Metal Pole > 2-1/2"
Band-it system
See Appendix I: Mounting unit with Band-
It
Building Wall
Minimum 3"Lag Bolts (x4)
>75 lb. load rating
The minimum clamping load strength for all mounting options should exceed 75 pounds.
2-1/2" METAL PIPE MOUNTING:
2-1/2" U-bolts should be fitted through the appropriate holes in the upper and lower mounting plates. All four nuts should be
snugged with equal thread engagement on each leg of the U-bolt. The nuts should then be evenly torqued to 12 lb-ft. Take care
not to over-tighten one side of the U-Bolts.
UTILITY / WOOD POLE MOUNTING:
Pick a safe pole location where the power cord can reach the input power source. Install the collector enclosure to the utility (or
other wooden) pole by utilizing the screws and the pre-drilled mounting plates located at the top and bottom of the collector
enclosure. Keep the box vertical / plumb as much as possible.
BAND-IT MOUNTING:
Band-It Mounting is used for pole mounting when the pole diameter exceeds 2-1/2". It is the most complex of the mounting
methods and is described in detail in Appendix I: Mounting unit with Band-It.
FLAT BUILDING MOUNTING
Attach the collector to flat surfaces (like building walls) using 3" or longer lag bolts (LB in Figure 5) through the predrilled holes of
the mounting plates. The bolts should be initially tightened down to where the head is flush with the mounting surface of the
bracket. The bolt should then be tightened 1/8 extra turn.

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BATTERY INSTALLATION
CAUTION
NOTE
: Solar installations do not include the backup battery.
Once the collector has been securely mounted, the battery may be installed. While referring to figure 2 and 7, perform the
following steps to install the battery:
1. Remove battery from shipping container
2. Locate and remove battery cable from accessory bag.
3. Attach red battery cable to positive (+) battery terminal and attach the black battery cable to the negative battery
terminal (-).
4. Loosen wing nut screws on battery bracket
5. Place battery bracket in lower position to allow battery insertion
6. Carefully place battery into battery holder pan
7. Very carefully position the battery bracket onto the front corner of the battery. BE VERY CAREFUL –DO NOT ALLOW THE
METAL BRACKET TO TOUCH THE BATTERY TERMINALS! Refer to Figure 2 and 7.
8. Tighten the wing nuts until snug
9. Connect the battery cable connector
Figure 7: Battery Holder and Cable Assembly
IMPORTANT
: To prevent corrosion on the battery terminals, add battery protectant such as Permatex 80370.

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REMOTE AMPLIFIER INSTALLATION
The collector base unit includes internal GPS and cellular antennas and a connection for the external remote amplifier / antenna
assembly (labeled “RF” in Figure 3). The remote amplifier / antenna assembly should ideally be mounted at an elevated location
to achieve superior range.
Note:
The antennas must be oriented vertically for proper operation, with the cellular modem antenna pointed upward.
Use up to 250 feet of type LMR-400 or equivalent cable to connect the two units. Greater lengths may be possible, if required,
by using higher performance cable. The matrix below lists supported maximum coaxial cable lengths based on type.
COAXIAL
CABLE TYPE
DB LOSS PER
100’
MAX LENGTH
ALLOWED, FEET
LMR-240
7.6
131.6
RG-6
6
166.7
RG-11
5.4
185.2
RF-9914
4.9
204.1
RF-9913
4.2
238.1
LMR400
3.9
256.4
LMR600
2.5
400.0
LDF4-50
2.17
460.8
RMR-900
1.7
588.2
LDF4.5-50
1.6
625.0
LMR-1200
1.27
787.4
AVA5-50
1.12
892.9
Consult Mueller Systems engineering for additional details.
The standard 8dBi antenna assembly includes a bracket that may be mounted to a pole, tower or solid surface using the same
mounting techniques as the collector base unit. See Base Unit Mounting Options. The optional 6dBi antenna shall be mounted
on the amplifier bracket as shown on the following page.
Note: All coaxial connections should be protected from weather effects by following the wrapping procedure shown in Appendix II.
If replacing collector antenna equipment, please reorder the original equipment. If modifying the antenna
configuration of your collector
you must use an antenna tested and explicitly approved by Mueller Systems
, or
all warranties will be voided.
You can reach Mueller Customer Care Monday – Thursday, 8AM – 7PM EST, or Friday 8AM –5PM at (800) 323-
8584 (in USA) or at [phone].

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EXTERNAL CELLULAR AND GPS ANTENNAS
The collector base unit includes built-in antennas for the GPS and cellular modem. An external antenna system (Mueller part
number MS-FRU-MNC-AN3 is available for installations that require the use of external antennas for these functions (Figure 8).
This antenna module accommodates both the GPS and cell modem and is connected to connectors located on the base of the
collector unit (see Figure 8). Contact Mueller Systems if this type of antenna system will be required.
Figure 8: Remote external GPS / Cellular Antenna and connections at bottom of collector

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Figure 9: Collector Base Unit and TTU remote antenna assembly – antenna not pictured
LIGHTNING PROTECTION AND GROUNDING
To provide adequate levels of surge protection during an electrical storm, implement proper grounding techniques during
installation. See Appendix III: Lightning Protection Recommendations for additional information and installation requirements in
lightning-prone locations.
The base unit’s lightning arrestor includes a dedicated grounding point (labeled GND in Figure 3). The lightning arrestor ground
must
be connected to earth ground through a very low impedance connection, such as wire braid or large gauge copper wire
according to local electrical code. The remote amplifier provides a dedicated grounding screw which must be utilized.

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POWER CONNECTIONS
CAUTION
The collector base unit requires a 100 - 240 VAC, 150-watt power source. The collector power source must be supplied by a
reliable source with an appropriate disconnect switch that meets local and NEC requirements. A conduit entry is located on the
bottom of the collector enclosure and should be used for power wiring to the collector.
Note
: Use ABB LTGUS02G-C, 1/2" Liquid-
Tight conduit or equivalent.!!
Note: conduit, power and ground wiring should only be installed by qualified personnel per
applicable OSHA, NEC, local codes and laws.
SOLAR INSTALLATIONS
Solar arrays should be installed to provide AC power. Power connections are the same as an AC installation.
See Appendix IV: Solar Installation.
AC INSTALLATIONS
Ensure AC power has been disconnected and all collector circuit breakers are in the off (down) position. Install the Line (L)
Neutral (N) and Ground (G) in the indicated terminal blocks using the method shown in the Connection Procedure section below.
CONNECTION PROCEDURE
If your AC input wire is a stranded wire you will need to prepare the wires for installation by crimping a ferrule on the end of each
of the three wires (line, neutral, and ground). The length of the ferrule shall be 12 mm and the barrel size shall be based on the
wire gauge. Refer to the manufacture terminal and crimper instructions for the procedure to crimp the ferrule.
Insert the wires by forcefully inserting a 1/8”-wide, slotted screw driver into the port located above the wire entry hole. This
action unlocks the wire port allowing insertion of the wire into its connection port (approx. 3/4” depth). Remove the screwdriver
to lock the wire into its terminal (Figure 10). Always test each wire connection by pulling on the selected wire (Figure 11).

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NOTE: use 1/8” or smaller screwdriver blade –wider blades will not activate the wire release mechanism.
Figure 10: Power Connections
Figure 11: Pull Test