Peninsula Engineering Solutions RF-8000E User manual

Corporate Headquarters
PO Box 1095
Danville, CA 94526
United States of America
Telephone: [phone]
Facsimile: [phone]
www.peninsulaengineering.com
RF-8000E Microwave RF Repeater
Operations Manual
550-0158-01
Revision D
January 2019

Revision D, January 2019
PO Box 1095
Danville, CA 94526
United States of America
Telephone: [phone]
Facsimile: [phone]
www.peninsulaengineering.com
© 2019 Peninsula Engineering Solutions, Inc. All rights reserved.
The materials in this manual, the figures, tables and text, are the property of Peninsula Engineering Solutions,
Inc. Peninsula Engineering Solutions provides this manual to aid its customers in obtaining product, ordering,
installation, testing, maintenance, and application information for this product. This information is confidential; any
unauthorized duplication, distribution, or electronic transfer of the materials to anyone other than Peninsula
Engineering Solutions authorized staff is forbidden.
By accepting this operations manual from Peninsula Engineering Solutions, you agree to hold, in strictest
confidence, and not to use or to disclose to any person, firm or corporation, without the express written
permission of Peninsula Engineering Solutions, the materials and information herein. “Confidential Information”
means any Peninsula Engineering Solutions proprietary information, technical data, know-how, product plans,
products, services, software, designs, drawings, hardware configuration information, and tables featured in this
manual.
The information contained in this manual is subject to change.
Peninsula Engineering Solutions, Microwave RF Repeater, and SmartPower are trademarks of Peninsula
Engineering Solutions, Inc. Other brands and their products are trademarks or registered trademarks of their
respective holders.
US NTIA Identifier: RF-8000E, Doc. 36813/1, SPS – 16782/1
US DOD MCEB Identifier: RF-8000E, J/F 12/9185
Document Change History
REV DESCRIPTION DATE
A Initial Release, Universal Enclosure Design December 2009
C1 Changed PESi HQ address and contact details August 2014
D
Added 40/56 MHz channel bandwidth model configurations. Add AC power
options. Add support for 1024QAM and 2048QAM, and amplifier power settings
with radio FEC. Revise RMAS alarm equipment options. Retire models with
Level 1 Power Amplifiers and low-and-medium capacity “L” models. Renumber
two digit models to three digit suffix format. Add Safety Precautions section.
January 2019

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RF-8000E Operations Manual Contents — i
Safety Precautions
Radio Frequency Radiation Hazard
This symbol indicates a risk of personal injury due to radio frequency exposure. The
radio equipment described in this guide uses radio frequency transmitters. Do not
allow people to come in close proximity to the front of the antenna while the
transmitter is operating. The antenna will be professional installed on fixed-mounted
outdoor permanent structures to provide separation from any other antenna and all persons.
WARNING: RF Energy Exposure Limits and Applicable Rules1for 6-38 GHz. It is recommended that
the radio equipment operator refer to the RF exposure rules and precaution for each frequency band
and other applicable rules and precautions with respect to transmitters, facilities, and operations that
may affect the environment due to RF emissions for each radio equipment deployment site.
Appropriate warning signs must be properly placed and posted at the equipment site and access
entries.
Installation by Professionals
This product is intended to be installed, used, and maintained by experienced telecommunications
personnel only. Personnel qualified to install or maintain Licensed Microwave Radio Transmitters and
Antenna Systems in the United States of America, Canada, or the European Union are normally
qualified to install or maintain the RF-8000E Microwave RF Repeater.
This product has been evaluated to the U.S. and Canadian (Bi-National) Standard for Safety of
Information Technology Equipment, Including Electrical Business Equipment, CAN/CSA C22.2, No.
950-95 * UL 1950, Third Edition, including revisions through revision date March 1, 1998, which are
based on the Fourth Amendment to IEC 950, Second Edition. In addition, this product was also
evaluated to the applicable requirements in UL 1950, Annex NAE.
WARNING - This unit is intended for installation in a Restricted Access location in accordance with
Articles 110-18, 110- 26, and 110-27 of the United States National Electric Code ANSI/NFPA 70.
This equipment should be installed in accordance with Article 810 of the United States National
Electrical Code.
When installed, this equipment is intended to be connected to a Lightning/Surge
Protection Device that meets all applicable national Safety requirements. TO AVOID
INJURY, RISK OF FIRE, AND DAMAGE, DO NOT CONNECT THIS PRODUCT
DIRECTLY TO AN ANTENNA, AND ENSURE THAT PROPER LIGHTNING
ISOLATION IS ALSO PROVIDED BETWEEN THIS UNIT AND OTHER EQUIPMENT.
Equipment is to be used and powered by the type of power source indicated on the marking label
only.
This product is intended to be connected to a +12 or +24 VDC power source that must be electrically
isolated from any AC sources and reliably grounded. Only a DC power source that complies with the
Safety Extra Low Voltage (SELV) requirements in the Standard for the Safety of Information
Technology Equipment, Including Electrical Business Equipment, CAN/CSA C22.2, No. 950-95 * UL
1950, Third Edition, can be used with this product. A 15-Amp circuit breaker is required at the power
source. In addition, an easily accessible disconnect device should be incorporated into the facility
wiring. Always use copper conductors only for all power connections.
1US FCC Office of Engineering and Technology Bulletin 65 provides guidance for radiation hazards.

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WARNING - This equipment is intended to be grounded. If you are not using the power supply
provided by Peninsula Engineering Solutions, you will need to connect the grounding conductor of
your power source to the grounding terminal located on the bottom of the unit; or, connect a
grounding conductor between the unit’s ground terminal and your ground point. For safe operation,
always ensure that the unit is grounded properly as described in this manual.
Do not connect or disconnect the power cable to the equipment when the other end of the cable is
connected to the dc power supply.
Servicing of this product should be performed by trained personnel only. Do not disassemble this
product. By opening or removing any covers, you may expose yourself to hazardous energy parts.
Incorrect re-assembly of this product can cause a malfunction, and/or electrical shock when the unit
is subsequently used.
Do not insert any objects of any shape or size inside this product while powered. Objects may contact
hazardous energy parts that could result in a risk of fire or personal injury.
Do not spill any liquids of any kind inside this product.
Top and bottom vent openings are provided for cooling and ventilation. To protect this product from
overheating, do not cover or block any of the vent openings.
Always ensure sufficient amount of space is provided above and below this product.
This product can be installed in a standard 19-inch rack. Check the size and clearance requirements
for this product and ensure that enough clearance is provided for installation.
Considerations should be given to the mechanical loading of the rack, mounting supports and the
equipment to avoid potential hazards.
If this product is to be powered from the same source as other units, ensure that the power supply
circuit is not overloaded.
When installed in a rack, always ensure that proper airflow is provided for this product.
The maximum ambient temperature for this product is 60°C. When installed in a closed or multi-unit
rack, consideration should be given to installing this equipment in an environment compatible with the
maximum ambient temperature.
Protection from RF Burns
It may be hazardous to look into or stand in front of an active antenna aperture. Do not stand in front
of or look into an antenna without first ensuring that the associated radio transmitter or transmitters
are switched off. Do not look into open waveguides when the radio transmitter is active.
Proper Disposal
The manufacture of the equipment described herein has required the extraction and use of natural
resources. Improper disposal may contaminate the environment and present a health risk due to the
release of hazardous substances contained within. To avoid dissemination of these substances into
our environment, and to lessen 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 your supplier for more information on the
proper disposal of this equipment.

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RF-8000E Operations Manual Contents — iii
Contents
Safety Precautions.................................................................................................................................................i
Radio Frequency Radiation Hazard..................................................................................................................i
Installation by Professionals..............................................................................................................................i
Protection from RF Burns ................................................................................................................................ii
Proper Disposal ...............................................................................................................................................ii
Chapter 1. Overview..............................................................................................................................................1
General Information.........................................................................................................................................1
Applications ..............................................................................................................................................1
Features ...................................................................................................................................................1
Functional Description .....................................................................................................................................2
Basic Repeater.........................................................................................................................................2
Amplifiers..................................................................................................................................................3
Directional Couplers .................................................................................................................................3
AGC/ALC Adjustment...............................................................................................................................3
Linear Gain Adjustment ............................................................................................................................3
Power Supply............................................................................................................................................3
Alarms ......................................................................................................................................................4
Licensing..........................................................................................................................................................5
Technical Specification Summary....................................................................................................................6
Ordering Information...............................................................................................................................12
System Options and Assembly Part Number..........................................................................................13
Technical Services.........................................................................................................................................36
Contacting Peninsula Engineering Solutions .................................................................................................36
Chapter 2. Installation Preparation...................................................................................................................37
Installation Overview......................................................................................................................................37
Receipt and Inspection of the RF-8000E Microwave RF Repeater................................................................37
Installation Equipment....................................................................................................................................39
Accessory Kits........................................................................................................................................39
Pre-Installation Site Review...........................................................................................................................40
Chapter 3. Mounting the Antennas...................................................................................................................43
Mount Antennas.............................................................................................................................................43
Antenna Types........................................................................................................................................43
Antenna Alignment.........................................................................................................................................43
Coarse Alignment...................................................................................................................................43
Fine Alignment using test radios.............................................................................................................43
Alternative Fine Alignment using repeater power measurements...........................................................44
Antenna Feedlines.........................................................................................................................................45
Feedline Installation................................................................................................................................45
Lightning Protection................................................................................................................................46
Sweeping the Antenna Feedlines ...........................................................................................................46
Measuring Antenna Isolation – Decoupling....................................................................................................47
Chapter 4. Mounting the RF-8000E Repeater ..................................................................................................51
Installation Overview......................................................................................................................................51
Mounting Associated Equipment and Space Planning...................................................................................52
Mounting the Repeater ..................................................................................................................................53
Earth, Ground, and Lightning Protection........................................................................................................54
Chapter 5. Repeater Tests..................................................................................................................................57
Overview........................................................................................................................................................57
Test Equipment Required..............................................................................................................................57
Applying Power to the Repeater ....................................................................................................................57
Transmit Power Adjustment...........................................................................................................................58
To measure and adjust output power:.....................................................................................................58
Receive and Transmit Attenuator Pads .........................................................................................................60
Pad Installation:......................................................................................................................................60
Radio Link Tests............................................................................................................................................60
Completion.....................................................................................................................................................60

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Chapter 6. Maintenance and Troubleshooting................................................................................................61
Routine Maintenance.....................................................................................................................................61
Administrative Requirements.........................................................................................................................62
Troubleshooting.............................................................................................................................................62
Amplifier Replacement...................................................................................................................................64
Keeping Spares .............................................................................................................................................65
Returning the Repeater Equipment for Repair...............................................................................................66
Product Warranty...........................................................................................................................................66
Appendix..............................................................................................................................................................69
Figures
Figure 1, Mechanical Layout, 2 Amplifier or Frequency Channels.................................................................16
Figure 2, Mechanical Layout, 3 - 4 Amplifier or Frequency Channels............................................................17
Figure 3, Mechanical Layout, Bottom Detail...................................................................................................18
Figure 4, Linear Power Amplifier....................................................................................................................19
Figure 5, Block Diagram, 1+0 Duplex, Un-Equalized.....................................................................................20
Figure 6, Block Diagram, 1+1, 2+0 Duplex, Un-Equalized.............................................................................21
Figure 7, Block Diagram, 1+0 One-Way, Un-Equalized.................................................................................22
Figure 8, Block Diagram, 1+0 One-Way, Delay Equalized.............................................................................22
Figure 9, Block Diagram, 1+1 Duplex, Un-Equalized, 2-Amplifier..................................................................23
Figure 10, Block Diagram, 1+0 Duplex, Delay Equalized...............................................................................24
Figure 11, Block Diagram, 1+1, 2+0 Duplex, Delay Equalized.......................................................................25
Figure 12, Block Diagram, 3-Port, 4-Amplifier, Duplex, Un-Equalized Space-Frequency Hybrid Diversity and
Y-Junction Applications................................................................................................................26
Figure 13, Block Diagram, 3-Port, 4-Amplifier, Duplex, Delay Equalized Space-Frequency Hybrid Diversity
and Y-Junction Applications.........................................................................................................27
Figure 14, Block Diagram, 4-Port, 3-Amplifier, Duplex, Un-Equalized Space Diversity Applications .............28
Figure 15, Block Diagram, 4-Port, 4-Amplifier, Duplex, Un-Equalized 1+1 Space-Frequency Hybrid Diversity,
2+0 Dual Polarized and Y-Junction Applications..........................................................................29
Figure 16, Block Diagram, 4-Port, 3-Amplifier, Duplex, Delay Equalized Space Diversity Applications.........30
Figure 17, Block Diagram, 4-Port, 4-Amplifier, Duplex, Delay Equalized 1+1 Space-Frequency
Hybrid Diversity, 2+0 Dual Polarized and Y-Junction Applications...............................................31
Figure 18, Power Connection Block Diagram, 12V Standard.........................................................................32
Figure 19, Power Connection Block Diagram, 24V Option.............................................................................33
Figure 20, Power Connection Diagram, AC Single Power Supply Option......................................................34
Figure 21, Power Connection Diagram, AC Dual Power Supply Option.........................................................34
Figure 22, Repeater Power Wiring Pictorial...................................................................................................35
Figure 23, Typical RF Repeater Installation...................................................................................................38
Figure 24, Enclosure Mounting Dimensions RF-8000E, 2 ~ 4 Antenna Port, 1 ~ 4 Amplifier or
Frequency Channels....................................................................................................................41
Figure 25, Antenna Isolation Measurement - Equipment Configuration.........................................................49
Figure 26, RF Repeater Installation near Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona, USA.................................51
Figure 27, Example of Wall Mounting RF Repeaters. Note the use of rigid W/G bends and twists. ..............52
Figure 28, Example of Solar and Wind Power Installation .............................................................................53
Figure 29, Suggested Mounting Frame..........................................................................................................53
Figure 30, Location of Ground Lug on Repeater Enclosure...........................................................................54
Figure 31, Typical System Ground Rod.........................................................................................................55
Figure 32, Wiring and Ground Connections, Main Repeater Panel ...............................................................55
Figure 33, Power Amplifier RF MON and TX Branch Loss ............................................................................59

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RF-8000E Operations Manual Contents — v
Tables
Table 1, DC Power Consumption and Weight per Model.................................................................................8
Table 2, Branching Losses – RF-8000E 30 MHz Channel Bandwidth Models.................................................9
Table 3, Branching Losses – RF-8000E 40/56 MHz Channel Bandwidth Models..........................................10
Table 4, Transmit Power Backoff per Modulation Type .................................................................................11
Table 5, RF-8000E Microwave RF Repeater, 30 MHz Channel Models........................................................13
Table 6, RF-8000E Microwave RF Repeater, 40/56 MHz Channel Models...................................................14
Table 7, Coaxial Attenuator Pads ..................................................................................................................15
Table 8, Spare and Accessory Equipment.....................................................................................................15
Table 9, Alarm System Options .....................................................................................................................15
Table 10, Recommended Installation Equipment...........................................................................................39
Table 11, Accessory Kit, Microwave RF Repeater.........................................................................................39
Table 12, Accessory Kit, Typical Alarm Equipment........................................................................................39
Table 13, C/E Requirements per modulation.................................................................................................48
Table 14, System Troubleshooting ................................................................................................................62
Table 15, RF-8000E Maintenance Record.....................................................................................................67

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RF-8000E Operations Manual Chapter 1. Overview — 1
Chapter 1. Overview
General Information
The Peninsula Engineering Solutions’ RF-8000E Microwave RF Repeater, hereafter referred to
as the RF-8000E (or the repeater), is a linear, bi-directional, on-frequency RF repeater for microwave
point-to-point networks. The RF-8000E may be used with any manufacturer's compatible 8-GHz radio
operating in the 7.7-8.5 GHz frequency range to provide an intermediate repeater.
Applications
•Low-cost, highly reliable 8-GHz microwave through repeater for extending range of or clearing
obstructed microwave radio paths.
•Excellent performance with digital, or video microwave radios; channel capacity to 225xDS1 (360 Mb/s),
250xE1 (512 Mb/s), 2xOC-3, 2xSTS-3, 2xSTM-1 (2x155.52 Mb/s), Internet Protocol (512 Mb/s), multiple
video or mixed traffic.
•Compatible with any manufacturer's 8-GHz FDD radio terminal.
•Solar and alternative power compatible -- economical in light to heavy routes and remote locations.
Features
•Power Amplifier RF output power up to +30 dBm, 1.0 Watt.
•Supports channel bandwidths from 1.25 to 56 MHz.
•Low Latency, Propagation Delay. 70 ~ 125 nanoseconds, 0.070 ~ 0.125 microseconds per repeater.
•Power consumption only 34 Watts, solar rated, at +12 VDC for 2-amplifier; higher-power level; duplex
operation.
•Solar powered, hybrid solar and wind powered, Fuel Cell electric generator powered, AC powered, or
other alternative energy electrical power sources.
•Compact and lightweight -- ideally suited for remote sites that do not have access roads or commercial
power.
•Environmentally protected aluminum, weathertight, lockable cabinet. No extra environmental shelter
required in most installations. Suitable for use at unimproved sites anywhere in the world -- Alaska to
Saudi Arabia.
•Internally protected duplex (FDD), frequency diversity, space diversity and three-way or "Y junction"
system configurations are available.
•Only one active element per channel, the internally redundant linear amplifier subsystem.
•AGC/ALC provided to correct input fades, regulate output power, and reduce overload.
•Adaptable to new radio modulations and capacities as technology advances.
•Supports Adaptive Modulation and Coding (ACM, AMR) radio terminals.
•Supports Automatic Transmit Power Control (ATPC) radio terminals.
•RMAS-120 Alarm system (optional) can remotely monitor repeater.
•Equipped with directional couplers for in-service RF output power measurements.
•No frequency conversion -- received signal is filtered, amplified, and re-radiated.
•Very reliable, greater than 175,000 hours MTBF for 1+0 duplex.
•Available as a self-contained RF repeater for use with customer-furnished antenna and power
equipment or as a complete package including repeater, antenna, photovoltaic modules, battery
charger, and batteries.

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Functional Description
1. The RF-8000E assembly is an RF through repeater designed for remote locations. Little
alignment is required, and the use of highly reliable components and minimum active circuitry
eliminates most subsequent maintenance. The repeater assembly consists of an equipment
mounting panel, contained in an aluminum, weatherproof, enclosure. If desired, the equipment
mounting panel may be mounted in an EIA 19-inch rack, or the complete assembly may be wall-
mounted. In most applications however, the complete assembly is pipe-frame or tower-mounted.
Front views of the repeater are shown in Figures 1 and 2.
2. In addition to the RF-8000E repeater assembly, Peninsula Engineering Solutions offers
accessory equipment consisting of antennas and mounting hardware, waveguide, and complete
site power supply systems. The recommended antennas are solid or high performance types
chosen per application.
Basic Repeater
3. The RF-8000E duplex repeater uses internally redundant amplifiers for transmission in each of
two directions. Each amplifier is powered by two separate battery supplies for added reliability.
Bandpass filters and circulators, which form a duplexer network, direct the received signals to the
amplifiers and combine the amplifier outputs with the received signals to a common antenna port
for transmission in each direction (see Figures 5 to 17). The repeater supports frequency division
duplex, FDD, radio link systems where separate frequencies are used in each direction.
4. The received signal from "A" antenna, identified as frequency "f1", enters the repeater panel via
the cabinet mounted CPR112G, waveguide flange and is then fed to a RX-TX branching
circulator. Then from the channel branching circulator, the f1 signal is passed to the f1 receive
bandpass filter. The bandpass filter passes the f1 signal to a terminated coaxial circulator and
(optional) f1 receive pad and then to amplifier A1. The amplified signal passes through the
(optional) f1 transmit pad. From the transmit pad the f1 signal then passes through a terminated
coaxial circulator and the f1 transmit bandpass filter to the channel branching circulator and then
to the RX-TX branching circulator. From there to cabinet mounted CPR112G, waveguide flange
for connection to the "B" antenna.
5. In the other direction, the receive signal from "B" antenna, identified as frequency "f2", enters the
repeater panel via the cabinet mounted CPR112G, waveguide flange and is then fed to a RX-TX
branching circulator. Then from the channel branching circulator, the f2 signal is passed to the f2
receive bandpass filter. The bandpass filter passes the f2 signal to a terminated coaxial circulator
and (optional) f2 receive pad and then to amplifier 2. The amplified signal passes to (optional) f2
transmit pad. From the transmit pad the f2 signal then passes through a terminated coaxial
circulator and the f2 transmit bandpass filter to the transmit channel branching circulator and then
to the RX-TX branching circulator and the cabinet mounted CPR112G, waveguide flange for
connection to "A" antenna.
6. Receive pads RX f1 and RX f2 reduce the repeater receive signals to approximate the
recommended input level. The transmit pads designated TX f1 and TX f2 reduce the output
signal levels of the repeater for regulatory compliance and to prevent overloading of the terminal
receiver on a short hop. Pads are mounted on input and output of amplifiers. Nominal input and
output power level for various repeater channel configuration are listed at in Technical Summary
following this section.
7. Delay Equalizers are added to correct for the slope and parabolic group delay introduced by the
bandpass filters and branching networks. Equalized repeaters are recommended for high
capacity systems, tandem repeater applications and multiple carrier 1+1, 2+0 configurations.

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RF-8000E Operations Manual Chapter 1. Overview — 3
Amplifiers
8. In digital radio applications, in order to maintain linearity over the entire signaling envelope, the
amplifiers operate at a reduced average power level to meet the output power level requirement
as shown in Technical Summary. Each amplifier is mounted on the front of the panel to allow
easy AGC/ALC and linear gain adjustments. It also provides easy amplifier replacement in the
field. Necessary information for ordering spare or replacement amplifiers is provided later in
Chapter 1, Ordering Information.
Directional Couplers
9. Directional couplers, built into the amplifiers, provide signal monitor points, “RF MON”. These
allow in-service measurement of transmit output power. The monitor points are calibrated for
calculating the actual RF output power at the amplifier output and at the antenna port flange.
When measuring transmit power, the power meter reading obtained, plus the loss (in dB) marked
at the amplifier monitor point, minus the branching loss (in dB) marked on the panel, equals
actual antenna port transmit output power.
Example 1 Amplifier Output Example 2 Antenna Port Output
Power Meter indication +5.0 dBm Power Meter indication +5.0 dBm
Cal Loss at RF MON + 19.0 dB Cal Loss at RF MON + 19.0 dB
Amplifier Output = +24.0 dBm Tx Branch Loss - 2.0 dB
Antenna Port Output = +22.0 dBm
AGC/ALC Adjustment
10. There is a field-adjustable potentiometer on each amplifier. The amplifier output power set level is
adjusted by AGC/ALC potentiometer. This is a multi-turn potentiometer.
Linear Gain Adjustment
11. On each amplifier, there is a second field-adjustable potentiometer for linear gain adjustment to
limit its maximum gain. Gain adjustment is typically only used in cases where antenna isolation is
inadequate to support the required C/E at maximum gain. In the majority of cases, the AGC/ALC
automatic adjustments are all that is needed.
Power Supply
12. The only active element in each frequency channel of the RF-8000E assembly is the amplifier
which operates from a +11~16.5 VDC source. Current requirements are 1.95 Amperes maximum
for higher power Level 2 amplifiers. Solar Rated power consumption accounts for lower current
demands under normal conditions. The repeater assembly may be powered from alternative
energy source such as solar panels, wind turbines, thermal electric generators, fuel cell electric
generators, primary cells only, or from an AC/DC supply with standby battery (shown in Figures
18 and 19).
13. Optionally, the repeater can be configured for +24 VDC with the addition of internal DC-DC
converters. Two DC supplies of +24 VDC are brought into the repeater enclosure. They are
converted to +11.5 VDC by two DC-DC converters and power the amplifiers in redundant-
protecting mode. Current requirements, at +24 VDC, are 1.35 Amperes maximum per higher
power Level 2 amplifier.

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14. Storage batteries and photovoltaic modules are selected on the basis of the insolation and
temperature range at the site. The batteries are engineered to provide the required reserve
capacity across the temperature range and during periods when the output from the solar panels
is low or not available. Controllers are used with the solar panels to efficiently charge the
batteries without overcharging. Peninsula Engineering Solutions can determine the solar and
battery capacity. The location of the site should be specified when requesting assistance.
15. In areas where commercial power is available, an AC power supply can be provided. Although
one AC power supply will provide ample current to power all amplifiers, dual AC power supplies
are recommended for higher reliability. The dual AC power supply system also contains two
rectifier/chargers and two sets of standby battery to provide power during AC power failures.
Each battery is float charged while the power supply is on and has 100 Amp-hours as standard
capacity. Additional batteries can be purchased if needed. Optional internally mounted AC power
supplies are available without battery backup.
16. In locations where commercial power is not available and solar panel charging is impractical,
then alternative power sources such as thermal-electric generator, TEG, fuel cell, or motor
generator are available. Power sources may be used in combination to create hybrid power
solutions capable of operating in very demanding applications. Primary cell batteries capable of
powering an RF-8000E repeater in excess of a year may be used. In such applications, the
battery installation should be given an environmental shelter according to the manufactures’
recommendations. Contact Peninsula Engineering Solutions for assistance in designing the best
power supply system.
Alarms
17. The RF-8000E repeater can be provided with an optional alarm system (RMAS) to remotely
monitor the repeater site. Conditions that are typically monitored are listed below:
Standard Telemetry:
a) A Battery Voltage
b) B Battery Voltage
c) Battery Temperature
d) Auxiliary Voltage
Standard Trip Points:
c) A and B Battery Major Alarm
d) East and West RF Output Low
e) Amplifier Alarm
f) Cabinet Door Open
g) Feedline pressure low
h) Uncommitted Points
18. The standard alarms are typically relayed back to the terminal site through the use of a low rate
telemetry signal directly modulated on the microwave carrier in a non-interfering fashion. Alarms
are visually displayed on the standard terminal receiver unit. Alarm contact closure outputs are
available for input to standard microwave supervisory systems.
19. Alternative alarm equipment is available that transmits alarm data subset via UHF radio telemetry
links operating in parallel to the microwave hop. This type of alarm equipment is used when
access to the terminal radio AGC is not available or compatible. Alarm models available starting
in 2019 generate SNMP messages at the RF repeater location and transmits Ethernet packets
via UHF radio telemetry to the adjacent terminal radio site.
20. Alarm closures can be converted to SNMP reporting over IP networks using Peninsula’s
SNMP-SL10 unit. Additional SNMP equipment may be used for custom applications. Contact
Peninsula Engineering for more information.

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RF-8000E Operations Manual Chapter 1. Overview — 5
Licensing
All owners of the RF-8000E should consult with the appropriate local and national agencies for
information about licensing.
US NTIA ID (note 1) RF-8000E, Doc. 36813/1, SPS – 16782/1
US DOD MECB ID (note 1) RF-8000E, J/F 12/9185
Emission Designator Booster, Repeater, Amplifier, or same as terminal
radio
Power Output 0.03 ~ 0.7 Watts (per modulation and application)
Frequency Range 7700 ~ 8500 MHz
Frequency Stability (note 2) Amplifier
Modulating Frequency Dependant on terminal radio equipment
Licensing Notes:
1. The RF-8000E series can be used with any 8-GHz FDD radio equipment.
2. The repeater does not have any frequency determining components; therefore, for administrative data,
frequency stability is shown as amplifier. The actual frequency stability is a function of the associated
end terminal radio equipment.

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Technical Specification Summary
General
Frequency Range 7.700 ~ 8.500 GHz
Linear Amplifier Gain, Level 2263 dB typical, 61 dB minimum
AGC/ALC, Level 2 15 dB down fade, 5 dB up fade
Transmit Power, Level 2, Amplifier Output +30 dBm3with no backoff, see Table 4
Noise Figure, Amplifier Input 5 dB4at maximum gain, 6 dB at minimum gain
Branching Losses, Rx and Tx See Tables 2 and 3 for configurations
Antenna Connections
Antenna Ports CPR112G, Contact, Gasket Flange
Waveguide Type WR112
Return Loss, Antenna Port 26 dB across assigned channels
Frequency Plans RF-8000E-041 ~ -109 -241 ~ -299
Channel Bandwidth530 MHz maximum 56 MHz maximum
T-R Spacing680 MHz minimum 130 MHz minimum
T-T Spacing (1+1, 2+0) on common feeders 56 MHz minimum 112 MHz minimum
T-T Spacing (1+1, 2+0) on separate feeders 28 MHz minimum 56 MHz minimum
Channel Response: Delay Equalized RF-8000E-051 ~ -109
Amplitude ± 0.5 dB, f0± 15 MHz
Group Delay Ripple 5 nsec P-P, f0± 15 MHz
Group Delay Slope ± 5 nsec, f0± 15 MHz maximum
Propagation Delay, Signal Latency7125 ± 20 nsec at f0
Channel Response: Un-Equalized RF-8000E-041 ~ -099 -241 ~ -299
Amplitude ±1.0 dB, f0±15 MHz ±1.0 dB, f0±26 MHz
Group Delay Ripple 15 nsec P-P, f0±15 MHz 30 nsec P-P, f0± 26 MHz
Group Delay Slope ±20 nsec, f0±15 MHz max ±30 nsec, f0±26 MHz max
Propagation Delay, Signal Latency 100 ± 20 nsec at f070 ± 20 nsec at f0
2Single Carrier per amplifier and not including Branching Losses.
3Guaranteed transmit power is 1 dB less.
4Guaranteed noise figure is 1 dB greater.
5Supported assigned channel bandwidths: 56 MHz, 40 MHz, and 30 MHz or less. ITU-R F.386 provides for
low capacity channel bandwidths of 1.25, 2.5 and 5 MHz. Certain administrations permit combining
adjacent 28 MHz channels into one 56 MHz channel. US-IRAC channel bandwidths of 5 MHz, 10 MHz,
15 MHz, 20 MHz, and 30 MHz are common. In certain applications, 40 MHz channels are permitted.
6Minimum T-R spacing (inner channels) requires > 25 dB antenna system return loss per each antenna.
7Measured from equipment waveguide antenna port in to waveguide antenna port out.
Does not include external feedlines or antennas.

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Electric Power Requirements
Power Configuration A & B Battery Inputs, Auto-Redundant
Nominal Voltage +12 VDC
Voltage Range8+11 ~ +16.5 VDC, at TB1
Optional Voltage +24 VDC
Optional Voltage Range +19 ~ +30 VDC, at TB2, TB3
Polarity Negative Ground
Current and Power See Table 1
Electric Power Requirements – Optional AC
Power Configuration Single or Dual AC/DC Power Supplies
Nominal Input Voltage Range 100 ~ 240 VAC, 45 ~ 65 Hz, at TB2, TB3
Power Supply Output Voltage +11.5 ~ +12.0 VDC, at TB1
AC Mains Power, per unit configuration Table 1: +12 V power * 1.6
AC Mains Current & Power, maximum rating 2 A, 200 W
Environmental Conditions
Housing Type Weather Tight Aluminum
Ambient Temperature -40°C ~ +60°C
Relative Humidity 90% (housing internal)
100% (housing external)
Altitude 15,000 Feet, 4600 meters
Reliability
MTBF 175,000 hours
MTTR 30 minutes, on-site
Dimensions: 2-Antenna Port, 1 ~ 4 Frequency Channels
Height, including antenna ports and mounting rails 36.20 inches, 920 mm
Width, door closed 23.25 inches, 591 mm
Depth, including mounting rails 22.82 inches, 580 mm
Weight See Table 1
8Note: Standard +12 VDC voltage operating range is specified to 11 VDC with full specification
compliance. RF-8000E Repeater amplifiers will typically operate to about 9 VDC with some loss of
gain and power output. Rapid degradation in performance occurs at less than 9 VDC.

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Table 1, DC Power Consumption and Weight per Model
MODEL Current
Amps Max Power Watts Max Solar Rated Power, Watts Weight9
12 V10 24 V11 12 V 24 V12 12 V 24 V lb kg
RF-8000E-041 3.9 A 2.0 A 53 W 54 W 34 W 34.5 W 89 lb 40.5 kg
RF-8000E-042 7.8 4.0 105.5 108 68 68.5 109 49.5
RF-8000E-043 2.0 1.0 26.5 27 17 17.5 81 36.5
RF-8000E-044 3.9 2.0 53 54 34 34.5 106 48.0
RF-8000E-051 3.9 2.0 53 54 34 34.5 90 41.0
RF-8000E-052 7.8 4.0 105.5 108 68 68.5 111 50.5
RF-8000E-053 2.0 1.0 26.5 27 17 17.5 82 37.0
RF-8000E-079 7.8 4.0 105.5 108 68 68.5 114 51.5
RF-8000E-089 7.8 4.0 105.5 108 68 68.5 115 52.0
RF-8000E-098 5.9 3.0 79 81 51 51.5 102 46.5
RF-8000E-099 7.8 4.0 105.5 108 68 68.5 118 53.5
RF-8000E-108 5.9 3.0 79 81 51 51.5 103 46.5
RF-8000E-109 7.8 4.0 105.5 108 68 68.5 119 54.0
RF-8000E-241 3.9 2.0 53 54 34 34.5 89 40.5
RF-8000E-242 7.8 4.0 105.5 108 68 68.5 109 49.5
RF-8000E-279 7.8 4.0 105.5 108 68 68.5 114 51.5
RF-8000E-298 5.9 3.0 79 81 51 51.5 102 46.5
RF-8000E-299 7.8 4.0 105.5 108 68 68.5 118 53.5
9Weight is for 12 V power and does not include optional alarm equipment mounted inside the repeater. Add 5.5 lb, 2.5 kg for
standard RMAS-120 transmitter, add 8.5 lb, 4 kg for RMAS-120 transmitter with UHF radio telemetry link. Add 6.3 lb, 2.9
kg for the DC/DC converters. For rack mount units, subtract 50 lb, 22.5 kg for the enclosure.
10 Current is specified at +13.5 VDC at TB1. Current is constant with battery voltage. Combined A + B Battery currents are
shown.
Normally, each battery current is half of the total for even numbers of provisioned amplifiers.
11 Current is specified at +27.0 VDC at TB2, TB3. Current increases when the battery voltage decreases.
Combined A + B Battery currents are shown. Normally, each battery current is half of the total for even numbers of
provisioned amplifiers.
12 Power is quite constant over the operating voltage range due to the switching DC/DC converters.

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Table 2, Branching Losses – RF-8000E 30 MHz Channel Bandwidth Models
MODEL BW
MHz Delay Eql Channel Receive Branch Loss, Typical*, dB Transmit Branch Loss, Typical*, dB
RF-8000E-041 30 No F1, F2 2.1 2.6
RF-8000E-042 30 No F1, F4 2.1 2.8
F2, F3 2.5 2.7
RF-8000E-043 30 No F1 2.0 2.5
RF-8000E-044 30 No F1, F3 2.9 3.2
F2, F4 2.6 2.8
RF-8000E-051 30 Yes F1, F2 3.4 2.6
RF-8000E-052 30 Yes F1, F4 3.4 2.8
F2, F3 3.8 2.7
RF-8000E-053 30 Yes F1 3.3 2.5
RF-8000E-079 30 No F1, F4 2.1 2.8
F2, F3 2.6 2.7
RF-8000E-089 30 Yes F1, F4 3.4 2.8
F2, F3 3.7 2.7
RF-8000E-098 30 No F1, F2 2.1 2.6
F3(F1-SD) 2.4 2.5
RF-8000E-099 30 No F1, F4 2.1 2.6
F2, F3 2.5 2.8
RF-8000E-108 30 Yes F1, F2 3.4 2.6
F3(F1-SD) 3.7 2.5
RF-8000E-109 30 Yes F1, F4 3.4 2.6
F2, F3 3.8 2.8
Note: * Guaranteed branching losses are 1 dB greater.

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Table 3, Branching Losses – RF-8000E 40/56 MHz Channel Bandwidth Models
MODEL BW
MHz Delay Eql Channel Receive Branch Loss, Typical*, dB Transmit Branch Loss, Typical*, dB
RF-8000E-241 40/56 No F1, F2 2.0 2.5
RF-8000E-242 40/56 No F1, F4 2.0 2.7
F2, F3 2.5 2.6
RF-8000E-279 40/56 No F1, F4 2.0 2.7
F2, F1-SD 2.5 2.6
RF-8000E-298 40/56 No F1, F2 2.0 2.5
F3(F1-SD) 2.2 2.5
RF-8000E-299 40/56 No F1, F4 2.0 2.5
F2, F3 2.5 2.7
Note: * Guaranteed branching losses are 1 dB greater.

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Table 4, Transmit Power Backoff13 per Modulation Type
Modulation Type14 Backoff15 Level 2 PA Output
Without Radio FEC With Radio FEC
FM Analog, 24 ~ 96 FDM 0.0 dB 30.0 dBm 30.0 dBm
FM Analog, 120 ~ 300 FDM 0.0 30.0 30.0
FM Analog, 420 ~ 2400 FDM 0.0 30.0 30.0
FM Analog, Color Video 0.0 30.0 30.0
FSK, MSK 0.0 30.0 30.0
BPSK 1.0 29.0 29.0
QPSK, OQPSK, 4PSK, 4QAM 2.0 28.0 28.0
8PSK 4.0 26.0 26.0
16QAM 6.0 24.0 24.0
32QAM 8.0 22.0 24.0
64QAM 10.0 20.0 24.0
128QAM 12.0 18.0 23.0
256QAM 13.0 17.0 22.0
512QAM 14.0 16.0 21.0
1024QAM 15.0 N/A 20.0
2048QAM 16.0 N/A 19.0
32TCM 9.0 21.0 24.0
64TCM 10.0 20.0 24.0
128TCM 12.0 18.0 23.0
256TCM 14.0 16.0 21.0
OFDM QPSK 11.0 19.0 20.0
OFDM 16QAM 15.0 15.0 18.0
OFDM 64QAM 18.0 12.0 16.0
COFDM QPSK 6.0 24.0 26.0
COFDM 16QAM 9.0 21.0 25.0
COFDM 64QAM 13.0 17.0 21.0
9QPRS/QPR3 5.0 25.0 25.0
25QPRS/QPR5 5.5 24.5 24.5
49QPRS/QPR7 6.0 24.0 24.0
81QPRS/QPR9 7.0 23.0 23.0
225QPRS/QPR15 9.0 21.0 21.0
Note: Peninsula Engineering Solutions may change performance specifications where necessary to
meet industry requirements.
13 Transmit power set point is reduced as the modulation becomes more complex.
This power “backoff” provides adequate linearity as required by the system performance objectives.
The ALC adjustment on each amplifier is used to set the output power level. To calculate the repeater’s
output power at the antenna port flange, take the amplifier power output without backoff, reduce that level by
the backoff listed in this table, then subtract the transmit branch loss for the specific configuration from
Tables 2 or 3.
For Example: Level 2 Amplifier Power Output = +30 dBm without backoff reduction;
Modulation is 256QAM, therefore backoff = 13.0 dB, RF-8000E-041 Tx Branch Loss = 2.6 dB;
Output power at antenna port flange = +30.0 – 13.0 – 2.6 = +14.4 dBm.
14 Modulations listed are the most popular types. List is not exclusive. If a modulation is not listed, contact the
company for specific details.
15 Backoff values without considering radio forward error correction (FEC). Radio FEC can correct for a modest
amount of added in-band distortion products resulting in greater amplifier output power permissible.

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Ordering Information
The RF-8000E RF Repeater Assembly is ordered by specifying the system model number
RF-8000E-XXX, (Tables 5 and 6). Attenuators are provisioned by specifying their part numbers.
Transmission engineering must be completed before ordering because the necessary attenuator
values are determined from the path calculations. Part numbers are listed in Table 7.
When doing the initial system layout of a radio link which includes an RF-8000E Microwave RF
Repeater Assembly, several factors must be considered prior to ordering, to ensure correct antenna
connections and proper installation. Consider the following topics before ordering the RF-8000E
Microwave RF Repeater:
Repeater Transmit and Receive Frequencies
Repeater frequencies are coordinated with the adjacent terminal radios. See the block diagrams
for more detail. Orders cannot be accepted without firm frequencies. Frequency assignments
within the repeater can optimize the orientation of the repeater antenna ports relative to the site
antennas. Peninsula Engineering can assist in determining the frequencies and assignments.
Terminal Radio Modulation, Traffic Capacity, and Repeater Transmit Power Level
Repeater transmit power levels are set based on the modulation and traffic capacity of the
adjacent terminal radios. Please include the modulation and traffic capacity details with the
purchase order. Peninsula Engineering will determine the proper transmit power level.
Modulations and traffic capacity beyond those listed in this manual may be possible to support,
contact Peninsula Engineering Solutions for more details.
Electric Power System
The repeater site power system should be detailed during the system design phase. Peninsula
Engineering Solutions can provide this design service and the power equipment. Power systems
may include: Solar, Wind, AC, TEG, Motor Generator, Fuel Cell, or other power sources. All
power systems include a battery plant and associated charge control equipment. Battery capacity
must be adequate for the load, location, and power source.
Antennas
The types and sizes of antennas required to meet the system requirements. Transmission
engineering can determine the antenna details. Transmission engineering and antennas are
available from Peninsula Engineering Solutions.
Feedlines
Type and length required for antenna connections (including jumper assemblies); note that
waveguide is available from Peninsula Engineering Solutions.
Mounting
Special requirements for the repeater and antennas specific to the intended tower or supporting
structure. The repeater normally mounts outdoors in its all-weather enclosure. Peninsula
Engineering Solutions can provide construction engineering support.
Rack Mounting, Optional
The RF repeaters may be mounted to EIA 19-inch racks. Request “No Enclosure” (NE) versions.
Alarm System
The Repeater Monitor and Alarm System equipment is optional. Please refer to Table 9 for
ordering details or refer to the alarm equipment manuals.
When ordering, specify a shipping destination and a billing address. Peninsula Engineering Solutions
returns an order acknowledgment with the scheduled shipping date. Each shipment includes an
equipment list showing the equipment ordered and shipped, including details about system and
equipment options.