NEXTIVITY Cel-Fi QUATRA User manual

CEL-FI QUATRA
Installation and User Guide
Nextivity, Inc.
16550 West Bernardo Ct
Building 5, Suite 550
San Diego, CA 92127
858-485-9442
support@cel-fi.com

Cel-Fi QUATRA: User Manual 2
Contents
Introduction .......................................................................................................................................................................3
Cel-Fi QUATRA™.............................................................................................................................................................3
Unconditionally Network Safe......................................................................................................................................5
The Cel-Fi WAVE Platform ............................................................................................................................................5
VIDEOS ...........................................................................................................................................................................6
System Elements ..............................................................................................................................................................7
Hardware Components .................................................................................................................................................7
Cel-Fi QUATRA Network Unit (NU) ...........................................................................................................................7
Cel-Fi QUATRA Coverage Unit (CU)..........................................................................................................................7
Software Components ..................................................................................................................................................8
QUATRA Planner Tool ...............................................................................................................................................8
QUATRA Management Tool Mobile Application (QMT) .........................................................................................8
Cel-Fi WAVE Portal ....................................................................................................................................................8
Peripheral Options.........................................................................................................................................................9
Cel-Fi QUATRA Small Cell Interface .........................................................................................................................9
Cel-Fi MIMO Panel Antenna powered by AntennaBoost ........................................................................................9
Cel-Fi Wideband Directional Antenna ................................................................................................................... 10
Cel-Fi Wideband Omni Antenna............................................................................................................................. 10
Cel-Fi QUATRA Range Extender (QRE).................................................................................................................. 10
Available Models ........................................................................................................................................................ 11
Configuration Options (Modes)..................................................................................................................................... 12
Off-Air .......................................................................................................................................................................... 12
Small Cell (Supercell) ................................................................................................................................................. 12
Determining the Proper Configuration...................................................................................................................... 13
Deploying Cel-Fi QUATRA .............................................................................................................................................. 14
PLAN............................................................................................................................................................................ 14
Planning Checklist:................................................................................................................................................. 14
PLAN NU:................................................................................................................................................................. 15
PLAN CU .................................................................................................................................................................. 16
PLAN CABLING ....................................................................................................................................................... 17

Cel-Fi QUATRA: User Manual 3
NU Power................................................................................................................................................................. 18
NU LAN Management port..................................................................................................................................... 18
NU to CU cables...................................................................................................................................................... 18
INSTALL ...................................................................................................................................................................... 20
CABLE.......................................................................................................................................................................... 21
POWER ........................................................................................................................................................................ 22
Troubleshooting: Cel-Fi QUATRA .................................................................................................................................. 23
TERMINOLOGY............................................................................................................................................................... 26
SPECIFICATIONS............................................................................................................................................................ 27
INTRODUCTION
Cel-Fi QUATRA™
In-Building Enterprise Cellular System
Cel-Fi QUATRA is an active DAS hybrid solution for delivering high quality in-building cellar coverage in venues
up to 200,000 sq. ft. As it combines the best of active DAS and Cel-Fi technology that has been widely adopted
by carriers around the world, Cel-Fi QUATRA is a scalable solution that provides configurations for single or
multi-carrier environments. Options are available for off-air mode or via integration with carrier small cell
equipment and operated in distributed small cell mode, creating a Supercell.
Cel-Fi QUATRA is self-configuring and self-optimizing, distributes RF over Ethernet (RFoE), and leverages Power
over Ethernet (PoE) for ease and accuracy of installation by Cel-Fi Certified professionals. The system is
monitored and managed using the Cel-Fi WAVE Platform.

Cel-Fi QUATRA: User Manual 4
Two QUATRA variants are available:
QUATRA 1000
QUATRA 2000
Smart Signal Booster
Unconditionally Network Safe
100dB System Gain
Distributed over Cat 5e cable
Power over Ethernet (POE)
12.5K ft2per Coverage Unit
MIMO
Dual-Carrier
Configurations are available for use on global carrier networks.
•Improves cellular reception for venues from
15,000 to 50,000 sq. ft. per system; scalable
to four systems for up to 200,000 sq. ft.
•Built for streamlined installation and
maintenance by Cel-Fi Certified professional
•Carrier approved and unconditionally network
safe for voice and data
•Intelligently self-configures and continually
self-optimizes to adapt to environmental
changes
•AntennaBoost intelligent antenna aiming
optimizes signal quality
•Remote monitoring and management using
the Cel-Fi WAVE Platform
•Designed for off-air or small cell applications
•Best quality signal at 100 dB max gain in off-
air mode
•Systems include Internal Antennas (MIMO)
and External Antenna connections (MIMO)
•IntelliBoost 6 Core Processor delivers high
speeds with low power consumption
•Advanced digital echo-cancellation and
channel select filtering algorithms
•Automatic Gain Control (AGC) maximizes
system power
•Adaptive signal equalization
•Seamless integration with the macro network;
improves network efficiency without causing
interference
•Only one power outlet needed for the entire
system (at the NU)
•External Multi-Band Panel MIMO Antenna and
Small Cell Interface device available
(Optional)

5
Unconditionally Network Safe
Cel-Fi QUATRA provides a sophisticated network-safe design that has been engineered to deliver
multiple levels of network protection:
•Uplink power control to prevent desensitizing the network
•Echo cancellation and feedback control
•Uplink gating
•Signal qualification (channels are individually qualified, so noise or very poor signals won’t be
amplified and degrade the network)
The Cel-Fi WAVE Platform
The Cel-Fi WAVE Platform enables device management and maintenance of Cel-Fi QUATRA systems.
Alerts and alarms can be used as configured out of the box or they can be customized however the
owner or admin chooses.

6
VIDEOS
•Cel-Fi Intro Video
https://youtu.be/Jy6PFhip3SM
•Small Cell Planning
https://youtu.be/SURNn6vk-_E
•Off-Air Planning
https://youtu.be/QoMk4XNu47E
•Small Cell Install
https://youtu.be/ZP8LeQ8YQMc
•Off-Air Install
https://youtu.be/-Esb0DhkgG4
•Small Cell Commissioning
https://youtu.be/tpZe1c2KdMw
•Off-Air Commissioning
https://youtu.be/gFhWN_6wqwI

7
SYSTEM ELEMENTS
Hardware Components
Cel-Fi QUATRA Network Unit (NU)
Cel-Fi QUATRA Network Unit (NU) is the hub of the system. The scalable design
works with one to four Coverage Units to provide up to 50,000 sq. ft. of coverage.
•Provides donor signal to the Cel-Fi QUATRA system
•Provides power to Coverage Units and QREs
•Connects to the Cel-Fi WAVE Platform for remote monitoring and management
•QUATRA 1000 and QUATRA 2000 variants available
Cel-Fi QUATRA Coverage Unit (CU)
Cel-Fi QUATRA Coverage Unit (CU) is the remote unit of the system that rebroadcasts
the donor signal. The cost efficient and easy-to-deploy system leverages Power over
Ethernet (PoE) for up to four CUs.
•Provides coverage in the Cel-Fi QUATRA system (up to four per Network Unit)
•Power delivered by Power-Over-Ethernet from the Network Unit
•Self-configuring and self-optimizing
•QUATRA 1000 and QUATRA 2000 variants available

8
Software Components
QUATRA Planner Tool
This simple on-line tool estimates hardware needs based upon building size, floor
plan utilization, and donor mode.
•Define building and Name the project
•Select Donor mode
•Email results
https://wave.cel-fi.com/#/QuatraPlanner
QUATRA Management Tool Mobile Application (QMT)
Smartphone app to manage systems locally without a wired internet connection.
•Communicates to QUATRA using Bluetooth
•Syncs the system’s data/metrics to the WAVE Portal in the cloud over the
mobile network
•May be used to commission systems
Cel-Fi WAVE Portal
For channel partners and installers, the WAVE portal is a cloud based management
solution to keep track of systems in the field.
•Commissioning
•Alerts & Alarms
•Status & Email/Text Notifications
•Troubleshooting

9
Peripheral Options
Cel-Fi QUATRA Small Cell Interface
The Cel-Fi QUATRA Small Cell Interface (SCIF) simplifies RF connections between
a small cell and NUs. It includes a main unit and all cables for a single NU.
•Simplifies connections to a small cell
•Provides proper signal attenuation and isolation
•Required for small cell Installation
Works best with:
•QUATRA 1000
Cel-Fi MIMO Panel Antenna powered by AntennaBoost
The Cel-Fi MIMO Panel Antenna is the only authorized indoor/outdoor MIMO
antenna for Cel-Fi QUATRA.
Cel-Fi AntennaBoost integrates the Cel-Fi MIMO Panel Antenna with the Cel-Fi
WAVE Platform to provide the best donor signal in the industry. The antenna
connects to any MIMO-enabled NU or CU with QMA (quick connect) cables.
Nextivity’s proprietary 8-position dial base enables the antenna to be rotated in 45-
degree increments for best performance, managed with real-time data from the
Cel-Fi Platform Antenna Position Test.
•High gain directional MIMO panel antenna
•Donor managed with AntennaBoost’s 8-position aiming mount
•Includes options for ceiling, wall, and pole mounting
•Required for off-air installation of multiple CUs
Works best with:
•QUATRA 1000

10
Cel-Fi Wideband Directional Antenna
Cel-Fi Wideband Directional Antenna is an outdoor-rated cellular antenna, perfect
for use as a donor antenna for Cel-Fi QUATRA.
•698 MHZ - 2700 MHz
•SISO
•SMA connector
Works best with:
•QUATRA 1000
•QUATRA 2000
Cel-Fi Wideband Omni Antenna
Cel-Fi Wideband Directional Antenna is an outdoor-rated cellular antenna, perfect
for use as a donor antenna for Cel-Fi QUATRA.
•698 MHZ - 2700 MHz
•MIMO
•QMA connectors
Works best with:
•QUATRA 1000
•QUATRA 2000
Cel-Fi QUATRA Range Extender (QRE)
Cel-Fi QUATRA Range Extender is a Power over Ethernet (PoE) device that extends
the maximum distance between the NU and the CU.
•Allows NU-to-CU cable lengths of up to 200 meters (650 ft.)
•Power over Ethernet (no separate power supply or PoE injector needed)
Works best with:
•QUATRA 1000
•QUATRA 2000

11
Available Models
Model
Bands
Approval
Q34-2/4/5/12
2,4,5,12
FCC
Q34-2/4/5/13
2,4,5,13
FCC
Q34-1/3/7/8
1,3,7,8
CE
Q34-1/3/8/20
1,3,8,20
CE
Q34-1/7/8/20
1,7,8,20
CE
Q34-3/5/7/28
3,5,7,28*
*Telstra-only CE, RCM
Q34-4/5/12/13/25
4,5,12,13,25
FCC. IC
BAND / FREQUENCY DETAIL
Cel-Fi QUATRA BAND SUPPORT
Downlink (MHz)
Uplink (MHz)
Band
Name
Low
High
Low
High
1
2100
2110
2170
1920
1980
2
1900 PCS
1930
1990
1850
1910
3
1800+
1805
1880
1710
1785
4
AWS-1
2110
2155
1710
1755
5
850
869
894
824
849
7
2600
2620
2690
2500
2570
8
900 GSM
925
960
880
915
12
700a
729
746
699
716
13
700c
746
756
777
787
20
800 DD
791
821
832
862
25
1900+
1930
1995
1850
1915
28*
700 APT
758
788
703
733

12
* This doesn’t cover the full band; the product covers the lower part of the band. This is because
components are not available to support the entire band within the product constraints.
CONFIGURATION OPTIONS (MODES)
Off-Air
Cel-Fi QUATRA can be installed off-air to provide high-quality in-building wireless connectivity by using
the existing cellular network. Off-air installations comprised of an NU and up to four (4) distributed CUs
dynamically networked into a single system to provide high-quality in-building wireless connectivity
covering up to 50,000 sq. ft.
External Antenna is required when using more than one CU in off-air mode.
Be sure to choose the System Mode “External Antenna” or “Internal Antenna” in the Cel-Fi WAVE Portal
when using the internal Cel-Fi QUATRA in Off-Air.
Small Cell (Supercell)

13
A Supercell is comprised of a Cel-Fi QUATRA system connected to a small cell. Multiple Cel-Fi QUATRA
systems can be connected to a single small cell, or multiple small cells, to form a coordinated Supercell
that extends coverage for large venues. A Supercell with multiple Cel-Fi QUATRA coverage units (CUs) is
more efficient than multiple small cells, and the CUs of a Cel-Fi QUATRA system connected to a
Supercell do not interfere with one another.
Cel-Fi QUATRA partners with carrier-approved small cell(s) to deliver better RF distribution through CUs,
utilizing the full capacity of the small cell(s), minimizing interference significantly, and requiring much
less network management. This achieves the major goal of in-building network densification.
Be sure to choose the System Mode “Small Cell” in the Cel-Fi WAVE Portal when connecting a Cel-Fi
QUATRA Network Unit to a Small Cell.
Determining the Proper Configuration
Existing Service using your phone (bars of signal)
Coverage Need
Weak Cellular service (0-2 bars),
reliable calls where signal
exists.
Signal exists but calls unreliable, or
available small cell does not cover all
required areas.
≤ 13,000 sq. ft. open area NU Internal Antenna (single CU) NU External Antenna (single CU)
20,000 sq. ft. many walled
rooms
NU External Antenna
(multiple CUs)
NU Small Cell input (multiple CUs)
≤ 50,000 sq. ft. open area NU External Antenna
(multiple CUs)
NU Small Cell input (multiple CUs)
≥ 50,000 to 200,000 sq. ft. Multiple NUs with External
Antennas (multiple CUs)
Small Cell input to multiple
Cel-Fi QUATRAs
Use Table 1 to determine the recommended system configuration for the installation site.

14
DEPLOYING CEL-FI QUATRA
PLAN
To facilitate the easiest installation process and the best performance at the site, it’s important to plan
the system design prior to any permanent installations.
Planning Checklist:
Carriers to be Boosted
Donor Signal Source
Equipment Ready
NU
CU(s)
Antenna
SCIF
Coax Cable (if using external antenna)
Adapters for Coax Cable
Cat 5e cable for each CU

15
PLAN NU:
•Based on the system selected and donor signal method, where will the NU be placed?
oUsing an Off-Air Donor
The input signal quality is a critical factor in the overall performance of the system. It
is important to optimize the input signal through antenna placement and aiming.
For small footprint applications where an excellent indoor donor signal is available,
the NU Mode may be set to Internal Antenna and a single CU system may be
deployed.
For all other Off-Air applications, Mode must be set to External Antenna and up to four
CUs may be used. To meet regulatory compliance and to assure optimum
performance, an approved Cel-Fi External Antenna is required.
Donor Antenna Aiming (through the WAVE app) is a simple guided process when
commissioning the system.
oEnsure power is available at the NU location.
oIf planning for an external donor antenna, where will the coax cable run be and where
will the donor antenna be mounted?
•For best results, test donor signal locations during normal peak usage hours.

16
•Determine best existing Off-Air signal location at the site (using phone signal bars), usually near
windows.
oTest results for LTE are preferred over 3G results.
oOPTION: Run a few speed tests on a phone at each location. Higher data rates indicate
better signal quality.
oADVANCED: Evaluate signal quality parameters (Smartphone apps such as Network
Cell Info Lite show this information).
PLAN CU
•Where will the CU(s) be placed?
•Site survey Suggestions (how do we survey the location?)
•Where is coverage needed?
•How will the CU(s) be mounted?
•Given CU placement, what sorts of cable runs will be required?
oAre the CU(s) sufficiently isolated from one another?
From the NU?
oAny distance over 200 m from the NU will require a QRE to be included in-line.

17
•Coverage Areas
PLAN CABLING
•Distance requirements
•QRE needs

18
Once NU and CU locations are determined, have your IT professional or cable installer recommend cable
routes and lengths (use a QRE for any CU cable length over 100m). Rather than running new cable,
sometimes existing LAN cables may be re-purposed.
NU Power
• The NU should be located within reach of an AC power output.
NU LAN Management port
• The NU LAN port connects QUATRA to the WAVE Portal through your LAN/ISP
• The LAN OUTPUT port is for daisy chaining additional NUs.
NU to CU cables
• Cat 5e (or better) must be used.
• Maximum NU to CU cable length is 100m for Cat5e.

19
Longer CU cables may be used for Cat6 if cable performance meets qualification testing for 1000Base-T.
• If longer cabling is needed (Cat5e or Cat6), a Cel-Fi QUATRA Range Extender (QRE) may be used for up
to 200m total cable length.
• These cables must be dedicated to each CU.
• Passive cable interconnects may be used when routing the cables (such as a punch-down block or
patch panel).
• Active Ethernet LAN hardware may not be used because Cel-Fi QUATRA uses proprietary signaling.

20
INSTALL
1. Record serial numbers by location
The QUATRA Management tools will reference the NUs and CUs by serial number during
commissioning, and allow the assignment of personalized names to each unit.
2. Mount the hardware
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