Poynting RIPPLE User manual

www.poynting.tech
Poynting Group (Pty) Ltd
Registration Number: 2014/239013/07
Rev 2.0
Prepared by: R&D –Technical Support Engineer, Poynting Antenna
RIPPLE System Integrator
Installation Manual
THIS MANUAL DESCRIBES THE INSTALLATION PROCEDURE FOR THE
POYNTING GROUP (PTY) LTD.
RIPPLE ANTENNA SYSTEM
This system has been purpose designed as a high-performance LTE, 4G, and 5G antenna
system aimed at router manufacturers requiring an antenna system platform; to facilitate
high-speed internet and highly reliable connections in a ‘near-shore’ telecommunications
tower.

Page 2of 30
www.poynting.tech
Poynting Group (Pty) Ltd
Registration Number: 2014/239013/07
Rev 2.0
TABLE OF CONTENTS
RIPPLE SYSTEM INTEGRATION ........................................................................................................................................... 3
1. BEFORE THE INSTALLATION...................................................................................................................................... 3
1.1. SELECTING THE ANTENNA INSTALLATION SITE............................................................................................ 3
1.2. SAFE ACCESS FROM RADIATION HAZARD.................................................................................................... 4
2. TOOLS INCLUDED IN KIT........................................................................................................................................... 6
2.1. REQUIRED TOOLS....................................................................................................................................... 6
3. ANTENNA INSTALLATION ......................................................................................................................................... 7
3.1. UNPACKING THE BOX STEP-BY-STEP ........................................................................................................... 7
4. OPENING THE ANTENNA AND REMOVING THE RADOME .........................................................................................10
5. FITTING THE ROUTERS INSIDE THE RIPPLE ...............................................................................................................12
6. RECOMMENDED ROUTER BRACKET MOUNTS FOR RIPPLE........................................................................................14
6.1. A-BRKT-071-V1-01.....................................................................................................................................14
6.2. A-BRKT-072-V1-01.....................................................................................................................................14
6.3. A-BRKT-073-V1-01.....................................................................................................................................14
7. CONNECTOR LAYOUT INSIDE THE ANTENNA............................................................................................................15
7.1. ANTENNA CONFIGURATION ......................................................................................................................15
7.2. A-RIPL-0016-V1-01 LTE/5G ANTENNA STRUCTURE .....................................................................................16
7.3. A-RIPL-0008-V1-01 LTE/5G ANTENNA STRUCTURE .....................................................................................17
7.4. A-RIPL-0008/0016-V1-01 GPS/WIFI ANTENNA STRUCTURE.........................................................................18
8. RF CABLE CONNECTION ..........................................................................................................................................19
8.1. A-RIPL-0016-V1-01....................................................................................................................................20
8.2. A-RIPL-0008-V1-01....................................................................................................................................21
9. ETHERNET AND POWER CABLES..............................................................................................................................22
10. CONNECT CABLES TO ROUTER(S)........................................................................................................................23
11. REPLACING THE ASSEMBLED ROUTER ASSEMBLY................................................................................................23
12. CONNECTING THE RF, ETHERNET AND POWER CABLES .......................................................................................24
13. CLOSING THE RIPPLE ..........................................................................................................................................24
14. ANTENNA MOUNTING TEMPLATES.....................................................................................................................26
15. MOUNTING THE ANTENNA.................................................................................................................................27
16. EXTERNAL CABLES TO THE RIPPLE.......................................................................................................................27
17. GROUNDING AND RF PROTECTION.....................................................................................................................27
18. INSTALLATION CHECK.........................................................................................................................................28
19. AFTER-SALE........................................................................................................................................................28
19.1 Maintenance and Service.....................................................................................................................................28
19.2 Troubleshooting ..................................................................................................................................................28
19.3 Warranty Policy ...................................................................................................................................................28

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Poynting Group (Pty) Ltd
Registration Number: 2014/239013/07
Rev 2.0
RIPPLE SYSTEM INTEGRATION
1. BEFORE THE INSTALLATION
1.1. SELECTING THE ANTENNA INSTALLATION SITE
The RIPPLE consists of a cluster of ultra-wideband, omni-directional antennas, which
provides a near-perfect 360° radiation pattern. A ‘Radiation Pattern’ defines an antenna's
ability to effectively transmit or receive radio signals within the three-dimensional area. The
measured radiation patterns of the RIPPLE are provided in the technical document.
An ideal vertical polarised, omni-directional antenna will have a 360° radiation pattern on the
horizon. While an ideal horizontal polarised, omni-directional antenna will have a 360°
radiation pattern perpendicular to the horizon. The RIPPLE antenna system offers a
combination of vertically and horizontally polarised antennas. This implies that the
installation site of the antenna should have limited obstacles in the line-of-sight of the
antenna system.
Any substantial structure between the shore-based towers and the RIPPLE will cause
degradation of the signal. Therefore, the installation site of the RIPPLE should be chosen
accordingly to minimize blockage caused by the structures on the vessel.
It is advised that the RIPPLE antenna system be mounted high enough to minimize the
effects of surrounding structures. Large, solid, structures will cause significant signal loss
while wire rope stays, lifelines, small-diameter handrails, and other accessories may cause
little to no noticeable loss.
Horizontal Radiation Pattern (or Azimuth) - The RIPPLE has an excellent horizontal, also
known as ‘Azimuth’ radiation pattern that will ensure near-perfect reception from 360°
around the vessel, provided that the area ‘around’ the Antenna System is clear of obstacles.
Vertical Radiation Pattern (or Elevation) –The RIPPLE also has an excellent vertical radiation
pattern, also known as the ‘Elevation’ radiation pattern. The RIPPLE has an approximate
vertical beamwidth of 60° at the lower frequencies, which means 30° below the ‘horizon’ and
30° above the ‘horizon’. Where the ‘horizon’ is the 0° ‘line-of-sight’ of the antenna pointing
on the horizon. The antenna elevation should be unobstructed as far as possible.
This ‘vertical aperture’ is important to counteract any ‘Pitch-and Roll’ of the vessel that would
result in loss of transmission- or reception of the signal.
Obstacles - Most metal structures potentially attenuate (degrade) the radio signal that is
being transmitted from or received by the RIPPLE. Examples of solid objects are masts,
exhaust funnels, other antennas, etc.
Close proximity to RADAR - Do not install the antenna near the Vessel’s RADAR, especially
on the same horizontal plane. The electromagnetic energy from the RADAR may negatively
affect the Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR) of the routers installed in the RIPPLE.

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It is recommended to position the antenna at least 4 feet (1.2 m) above or below the level of
the RADAR Antenna and a minimum of 15 feet (4.6 m) away from the high-power short-wave
radars.
The S-Band RADAR operates at frequencies between 2.9 to 3.1 GHz. Since the RIPPLE is
designed to be an ultrawide bandwidth antenna, it can receive signals in the frequency range
from 617 to 6000 MHz. SNR protection for the above S-Band frequencies can only be offered
by the filters in the router’s transceiver. It is therefore prudent to provide as much physical
separation as possible between the radiation envelope of the RADAR and that of the RIPPLE.
Rigid Mounting Position - The mounting platform should be rigid enough and not be
subjected to excessive vibration. The movement of the antenna can be minimized by
installing it at the centre of the vessel. If these conditions can only be partially satisfied, it is
preferred to find the best-compromised installation site between the various considerations.
Ideal Height of Installation - Since the Router/s installed in the RIPPLE will be communicating
with shore-based telecommunication towers, it would be advantageous to install the RIPPLE
as high as possible on the Vessel relative to the waterline. Typical positions will be on a
spreader, +4 feet (1.2m) above the RADAR dome.
If both X-Band and S-Band RADAR systems are installed it would typically be worthwhile to
install them above the X-Band RADAR. In most cases, it will be mounted higher as it is the
smaller Radome of S-Band and X-Band RADAR antennas.
1.2. SAFE ACCESS FROM RADIATION HAZARD
Passive System –The RIPPLE antenna system consists of passive radiating elements, which
are designed to radiate in specific frequency bands. Therefore, the system does not produce
radiation that can be dangerous to any lifeform.
Effective Isotropic Radiated Power (EIRP) –This is a term used to describe the amount of
power that is radiated by an antenna in a specific direction. Antennas are designed to radiate
their output power in a specific direction, that is either omni-directional or uni-directional
radiation. Therefore, antennas increase the concentration of electromagnetic waves that the
human cells would be exposed to.
Although this is taken into consideration when the maximum RF Power output of a router is
specified in the FCC (Federal Communications Commission) specifications. It is
recommended that ‘Radiation Warning Signs’ be placed in strategic locations when there is
a possibility that personnel or passengers on a vessel could come into close contact with
the RIPPLE Antenna System.
Router Transmitter Radio Frequency Output Power –Cellular (LTE/4G, 5G) router
specifications are governed by regulations stated by a variety of standards in various
countries like FCC in the USA and ETSI in Europe. The standards ensure that the radiated
power from the router is limited to prevent exposure to electromagnetic waves.
In this instance, we are concerned with the RF power output of the router/s transmitter/s
installed in the RIPPLE. Radio Frequencies in the range from 3 kHz to 300 GHz are regarded
as the ‘Radio Frequency Spectrum’. The main safety concern as far as RF radiated Power is
concerned, is to protect people from being exposed to too high levels of Electromagnetic

Page 5of 30
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Rev 2.0
(Radio) Waves that could cause damage to cells in their bodies and lead to illness due to this
radiation.
All Routers installed in the RIPPLE should conform to international standards limiting the RF
radiation presented by the RIPPLE antenna. The majority of cellular (LTE/4G, 5G) routers are
class 3 devices that are limited to a maximum output power of 23dBm (200mW), while some
class 3 routers are allowed to transmit 26dBm (400mW) at higher frequencies. The
integrator/ installer need not be concerned by the maximum output power of the routers, as
the main concern is to only install routers that are certified by the various standard bodies,
i.e., FCC, ETSI, etc.
Mounting position promotes safety –Apart from the router transmission power being
restricted by the above-mentioned regulations. Mounting the RIPPLE as high as possible and
away from structures will also provide additional safety to any personnel or passengers on
the vessel. As they will not be in close proximity to the RIPPLE antenna system, therefore,
reducing the possibility of exposure to electromagnetic waves.
The following Website from the FCC provides more information:
https://www.fcc.gov/engineering-technology/electromagnetic-compatibility-
division/radio-frequency-safety/faq/rf-safety#Q2
High-Performance System –Whilst the above recommendations are set out to ensure
optimal performance and a safe environment. Care should be taken with the installation and
positioning of the RIPPLE. The RIPPLE consists of vertically and horizontally polarised omni-
directional antennas to provide the best possible MIMO performance for the routers installed.
It has been tested to give exceptional performance and outperforms any standard omni-
directional antenna that has been tested.
The RIPPLE has been tested and evaluated in field trials, off the coast of Cape Town in South
Africa, which delivered excellent performance in challenging circumstances and
environments.
Thank you for your purchase. We would love to get feedback on your installation; we are
eager to hear your comments and we are ready to provide you with support during and after
your installation.

Page 6of 30
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Poynting Group (Pty) Ltd
Registration Number: 2014/239013/07
Rev 2.0
2. TOOLS INCLUDED IN KIT
2.1. REQUIRED TOOLS

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Registration Number: 2014/239013/07
Rev 2.0
3. ANTENNA INSTALLATION
The method of installation and mounting of the antenna may vary with vessel design but the
following procedures are applicable in most situations and will result in a secure and
effective installation.
3.1. UNPACKING THE BOX STEP-BY-STEP
Step 1.
Remove all four cable ties by cutting them off the rods.
Step 2.
Remove the top rod; then proceed to remove the left and right-side rods as shown below.
NOTE: Do not remove the base rod.

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Registration Number: 2014/239013/07
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Step 3.
Open the front flap of the box by gently pulling it down from the top; as shown below:
Step 4.
4.1. Pull the side supports towards you, pulling them out of the packaging.
4.2. The Left side support will have a sticker saying, “Open here”. Pull the lid of the side
support up to open it; then proceed to take out your hex socket tool gift box; as shown
below:

Page 9of 30
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Registration Number: 2014/239013/07
Rev 2.0
Step 5.
Slide the RIPL Antenna out of the box as shown below:

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Registration Number: 2014/239013/07
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4. OPENING THE ANTENNA AND REMOVING THE RADOME
Step 1.
Orientate the antenna so that the alignment notches are facing in your direction.
Then inspect the fastening holes from the angle below. See the next image.
Step 2.
Using the 5mm Allen/hex key in the provided tool kit and unscrew the M8 cap screws. The
Cap screws are captive screws and only need to be unscrewed till it drops loose into the
cavity below. Continue to the next step.

Page 11 of 30
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Registration Number: 2014/239013/07
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Step 3.
Locate the cable entry point in the base; the Radome hinge is on the opposite side; the
Radome rotates in the opposite direction from where the cable entry point is located.
Placing both hands on either side of the Radome, pull it upwards until it releases.
Please look at the image below and continue to the next step.
Step 4.
While lifting Radome upwards push it backwards until it reaches a 90° angle. Please look at
the image below and continue to the next step.
Cable entry point

Page 12 of 30
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Registration Number: 2014/239013/07
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5. FITTING THE ROUTERS INSIDE THE RIPPLE
Step 1.
Use the 4mm Allen key to loosen the M6 countersunk screws in the mounting plate as shown
below:
Step 2.
Remove the loosened M6 countersunk screws; then proceed to remove the mounting plate
as shown below:

Page 13 of 30
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Registration Number: 2014/239013/07
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Step 3.
Loosen the M6 cap screws using a 4mm Allen key from the main router plate; proceed to
remove the loosened M6 cap screws and M6 flat washers as shown below:
Step 4.
Remove the main router plate with the pillars from the heatsink as shown below:
Note: main router plate is now ready for routers to be mounted onto it.

Page 14 of 30
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Poynting Group (Pty) Ltd
Registration Number: 2014/239013/07
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6. RECOMMENDED ROUTER BRACKET MOUNTS FOR RIPPLE
Dimensions [ w x h x d]
6.1. A-BRKT-071-V1-01
FITS 4 x ROUTERS WITH DIMENSIONS OF: 95.1mm x 44.2mm x 132mm
FITS 2 x ROUTERS WITH DIMENSIONS OF: 190.2mm x 44.2mm x 132mm
6.2. A-BRKT-072-V1-01
FITS 2 x ROUTERS WITH DIMENSIONS OF: 200mm x 55mm x 280mm
6.3. A-BRKT-073-V1-01
FITS 1 x ROUTERS WITH DIMENSIONS OF: 177mm x 43mm x 292mm

Page 15 of 30
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7. CONNECTOR LAYOUT INSIDE THE ANTENNA
7.1. ANTENNA CONFIGURATION
The verticals (V) are the medium to high gain OMNI antennas. The horizontals (H) are the
low-gain OMNI antennas.
Step 1.
Please study the following pictures to decide how to do cable management for routers
installed.
1. RIPPLE-0016 Configuration: This configuration
connects 4 x (4x4) Routers (see Page 16) to
•8x Vertical Dipoles
•8x Horizontal Dipoles.
2. RIPPLE-0008 Configuration: This configuration
connects 2 x (4x4) Routers (see Page 17) to
•4x Vertical Dipoles
•4x Horizontal Dipoles.
3. Attach Wi-Fi and GPS Antennas as per Diagram
(see Page 18)
RIPPLE-0016 RIPPLE-0008
See Pages 20 and 21 for detail.

Page 16 of 30
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Registration Number: 2014/239013/07
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7.2. A-RIPL-0016-V1-01 LTE/5G ANTENNA STRUCTURE
Connecting 4 x (4x4) Routers to RIPPLE-0016 (A-RIPL-0016-V1-01)
Please refer to page 20 which details the Router connections to the RIPPLE-0016 base plate.

Page 17 of 30
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7.3. A-RIPL-0008-V1-01 LTE/5G ANTENNA STRUCTURE
Connecting 2 x (4x4) Routers to RIPPLE (A-RIPL-0008-V1-01)
Please refer to page 21 which details the router connections to the RIPPLE-0008 base plate.

Page 18 of 30
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Registration Number: 2014/239013/07
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7.4. A-RIPL-0008/0016-V1-01 GPS/WIFI ANTENNA STRUCTURE
Connecting 4x Wi-Fi Antennas and 2x GPS Antennas
RIPPLE (A-RIPL-0008-V1-01) and (A-RIPL-0016-V1-01)
Please refer to page 20 or 21 which details the router connections to the RIPPLE-0008 or
RIPPLE-0016 base plate, depending on the Model being deployed.

Page 19 of 30
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8. RF CABLE CONNECTION
Radio Frequency Bulkhead Connections: Pages 20 and 21 detail the layout of the RF
connections to the different Antenna elements. Following the recommendation to mount the
RIPPLE as high as possible above the waterline, possibly on one of the Mast
telecommunication equipment extensions.
The diagram directly below details the composite radiation pattern direction (not the actual
pattern).

Page 20 of 30
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The overlay below details the connector positions and their connected
Antenna radiation direction.
8.1. A-RIPL-0016-V1-01
NOTE: TURN THE PAGE HORIZONTALLY TO VIEW