Vcom IduBST1918 Operating instructions

INSTALLATION AND OPERATION GUIDE
FOR SYSTEM OPERATORS

VCom Inc.
BST1918 Manual; ml_bst1918_02 (Sept 2005)
Approved: C.H.
ii
Proprietary to VCom Inc.
All rights reserved.
No part of this publication may by reproduced in any form or by any means or used to make any derivative work (such as translation,
transformation or adaptation) without written permission from VCom Inc.
VCom Inc. reserves the right to revise this publication and to make changes in content from time to time without obligation on the part of
VCom Inc. to provide notification of such revision or change.
VCom Inc. provides this guide without warranty of any kind, either implied or expressed, including, but not limited to, the implied
warranties of merchantability and fitness for a particular purpose. VCom Inc. may make improvements or changes in the product(s)
described in this manual at any time.
BST1918 Manual; ml_bst1918 _02 Rev02 (Sept 05); Approved: C.H.
Specifications subject to change without notice — Printed in Canada

VCom Inc.
BST1918 Manual; ml_bst1918_02 (Sept 2005)
Approved: C.H.
iii
Thank-you for purchasing this product
and welcome to VCom!
You have chosen an innovative solution from a leading
technology design center in the ongoing TV & data delivery
revolution.
No doubt you’ve been thinking that the future of your television delivery system includes new technologies
such as Digital TV, Internet Over Cable, Wireless Cable. By selecting VCom, you are benefiting from the
same design powerhouse that since 1988 has created custom RF and digital products for technology leaders
such as AT&T, Cisco Systems, Cogeco, Comcast, and Cox Communications.
VCom designs and manufactures:


Agile CATV Modulators 

256 QAM Upconverters 

Digital Video Modulators


Frequency Translators 

Spread Spectrum Devices 

MMDS Transceivers


Off Air/CATV Demodulators 

Wireless Cable MMDS 

Wireless Cable LMDS


Video On Demand Products
and more! Designs to fill the market needs of the CATV industry – both foreign and domestic.
For additional product or corporate information, contact us:
On the web at: www.vcom.com
By sending email to: [email protected]
By telephone: [phone]
By fax: [phone]
By snail mail: VCom Inc.
150 Cardinal Place
Saskatoon, SK Canada S7L 6H7
VCom's Corporate Mandate
is to be a leading worldwide designer and manufacturer of
state-of-the-art communications equipment and components. Through
the remarkable success of our customers and business partners,
VCom innovations are achieving this goal.

VCom Inc.
BST1918 Manual; ml_bst1918_02 (Sept 2005)
Approved: C.H.
iv
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
1. Before installing and operating this equipment, read all Safety, Installation and Operating sections. Retain
this manual for future reference.
2. Follow all instructions — Failure to do so may result in damage to the unit or severe personal injury.
3. Servicing should not be attempted by the user. There are no user serviceable parts inside. Refer all
servicing to factory-qualified personnel.
4. Shock Hazard — An electrical shock hazard exists when the chassis cover is removed as is required to set
internal controls. Always disconnect power from the unit before removing the cover.
5. Cleaning — Do not use liquid or aerosol cleaners. Use a damp cloth for cleaning.
Warning Do not work on the system or connect or disconnect cables during periods of lightning activity.
PRÉCAUTIONS DE SÉCURITÉ
1. Avant d'installer ou d'opérer cet équipement, lisez, toutes les sections de sécurités, d'installations et
d'opérations. Gardez ce manuel comme source de référence.
2. Suivez toutes instructions - si non, vous risquez d'endommager la machine ou de vous blesser
sérieusement.
3. N'essayez, pas de réparer cet équipement vous même. Référez toutes revisions nécessaire au personnel
qualifié de la manufacture.
4. Risque de choc - Il y a un risque de décharge électrique qui existe quand la couverture du châssis est
enlevée, comme est nécessaire pour ajuster les contrôlcs internes. Il faut toujours couper l'électricité avant
d'enlever le couvercle pour faire aucun ajustage.
5. Le nettoyage - n'utilisez pas de nettoyeurs aérosols ou liquides. Utilisez un tissu humide pour nettoyer.
Attention Ne pas travailler sur le système ni brancher ou débrancher les câbles pendant un orage du
foudre.
Caution: To comply with FCC RF exposure requirements in
section 1.1307, any antenna which is connected to a BST1918
requires a minimum distance of 1.5 meters between it and all
persons.
Important Installation Instructions

VCom Inc.
BST1918 Manual; ml_bst1918_02 (Sept 2005)
Approved: C.H.
v
INDEX
1.0 GENERAL INFORMATION ...................................................................................................... 6
1.1 System Overview.................................................................................................................................... 6
1.2 BST1918 Features.................................................................................................................................. 6
1.3 Specifications.......................................................................................................................................... 7
2.0 INSTALLATION.......................................................................................................................... 8
2.1 Unpacking the Unit.................................................................................................................................. 8
2.2 Operating Environment............................................................................................................................ 8
2.3 Power Requirements ................................................................................................................................ 8
2.4 Rack Mounting ........................................................................................................................................ 8
2.5 Module Installation/Replacement ............................................................................................................ 8
3.0 OPERATION................................................................................................................................ 9
3.1 Front Panel Description ........................................................................................................................... 9
3.2 Operating Modes.................................................................................................................................... 10
4.0 REAR PANEL CONNECTIONS .............................................................................................. 11
5.0 WARRANTY AND SERVICE POLICIES................................................................................ 12
5.1 Warranty Statement ............................................................................................................................... 12
5.2 Service Policies: How to Return an Item for Service: ........................................................................... 12
5.3 Repair Charges and Warranty Exemptions............................................................................................ 13

VCom Inc.
BST1918 Manual; ml_bst1918_02 (Sept 2005)
Approved: C.H.
6
1.0 GENERAL INFORMATION
1.1 System Overview
The BST1918 combines low noise high power transceiver(s) and sophisticated management capability to
offer a radio solution for 1.9 GHz BWINTM BASED ON DOCSISTM base stations. Out-of-band signaling over the
single cable connection with the VCom BST1918 allows for full SNMP management (via the WM4040) of the
operational parameters. Built-in power detectors allow for easy input and output level configuration.
1.2 BST1918 Features
• High output power: +31 dBm carrier level with 64QAM
• Automatic transmit power control automatically corrects for cable loss and input level changes
• RF output mutes when changing output configuration or in a switchover situation
• Low noise: <4 dB including duplexer loss
• Digital temperature compensation to guarantee specifications over full operating temperature range
• All local oscillators are frequency synthesized and locked to a common high stability reference from the WM4040
• FLASH memory for easy software updates
• Externally connected antennas (60°, 90°, 120°, Omni)
• High reliability, state-of-the-art design using microstrip, MMIC and surface mount technology
• Conservative component derating and 100% burn in help ensure reliable operation
Full SNMP management when combined with the WM4040:
Monitors Controls Alarms
Transmit IF Level RF Output Power Setting Phase Lock Lost
Transmit RF Level RF Output Power Mode (closed-loop power control,
open loop gain control)
Overheating
Receive IF Level RF Output Mute Loss of Transmit IF
Internal Temperature Receive Gain Transmit RF Level
Module Serial Numbers
Transmit Phase Lock
Receive Phase Lock

VCom Inc.
BST1918 Manual; ml_bst1918_02 (Sept 2005)
Approved: C.H.
7
1.3 Specifications
BST1918 BASE STATION TRANSCEIVER SPECIFICATIONS
TRANSMIT
IF Input Frequency 555.0 -570.0MHz (2MHz channels)
555.2 - 569.8MHz (6MHz channels)
Bandwidth Channel size: typical 6MHz, adjustable through WM404x
IF Input Level +10 dBm nominal (total power)
IF Detector Accuracy ±1.0 dB typical
RF Output Frequency Range Block B: 1950.0 – 1965.0MHz, (2MHz channels)
1950.2 – 1964.8MHz, (6MHz channels)
Block C: 1975.0 – 1990.0MHz, (2MHz channels)
1975.2 – 1989.8MHz, (6MHz channels)
Frequency Response (any 6 MHz band) 1.0 dB peak-peak
Rated Output Power at Antenna Port +31 dBm (QPSK, 16QAM, 64QAM)
Output Power Stability ±1.0 dB over frequency and temperature
Output Power Control Range 20.0 to 32.0 dBm
Output Power Control Modes Closed-loop on specified output power or open-loop on
specified gain (compensated for IDU cable loss
and temperature variations)
Spectral Mask Compliant with FCC CFR 47 Part 24
Phase Noise <-51 dBc double sideband integrated over 10 kHz to 2.5 MHz
MER (equalized) ኑ38 dB
IF Cable Compensation Range 15 dB
Spectral inversion No spectral inversion
RECEIVE
RF Input Frequency Range 1870-1885 MHz, Block B
1895-1910 MHz, Block C
Frequency Response (any 3 MHz band) 0.6 dB peak-peak
IF Output Frequency Range 27-42 MHz
Noise Figure at Antenna Port <4 dB including duplexer loss at maximum gain
Integrated Gain 55 dB nominal
Gain Control Range ±10 dB
Output Third Order Intercept Point: +20 dBm at maximum gain
Phase Noise <-95 dBc/Hz @ 10 kHz
<-51 dBc double sideband integrated over 10 kHz to 2.5 MHz
IF Detector Accuracy ±1.0 dB typical
Spectral inversion No spectral inversion
Image Rejection > 75 dB
GENERAL
Remote Control Interface Bi-directional signalling with WM4040
Connectors N female, 50 ohms
Power Requirement -40.5 to –57VDC operational
Power Consumption 60W maximum
Operating Temperature Range 10°C to 40°C
Mounting Standard 19” (48.3 cm), 2U (3.5”) rack space (3U in dual
configuration)
Dimensions 19” (w) x 14.9” (d) x 3.5” (h) (48.3 x 37.9 x 8.9 cm)
Weight 30.8 lbs. (14kg)
Specifications subject to change without notice.
The DOCSISTM acronym belongs to CableLabs®

VCom Inc.
BST1918 Manual; ml_bst1918_02 (Sept 2005)
Approved: C.H.
8
2.0 INSTALLATION
2.1 Unpacking the Unit
Carefully remove the equipment from its packing material and set it on a solid surface, such as a table or
desk. If it appears damaged in any way, notify the carrier, and keep all packing materials for inspection by the
carrier’s agent.
2.2 Operating Environment
- Front to back cooling; no clearance required above or below, but ample clearance at front and back.
- D to operate at temperatures ranging from 0 to 40oC (50 to 104oF). As with all electrical equipment,
operation at excessive temperature accelerates the deterioration of components. For this reason,
measures should be taken to prevent the build up of excessive heat in the rack.
2.3 Power Requirements
All power on the unit is supplied by the WM4040 via a –48VDC connection multiplexed over the IF cable.
Only one BST1918 can be connected to a WM4040.
2.4 Rack Mounting
The chassis is designed for standard rack mounting in a 19” equipment rack. It requires 2U (3.50”) of vertical
rack space. It should be installed in a rack allowing access to the back of the unit. The transceiver should be
isolated from strong RF radiation emanating from local equipment in the rack.
2.5 Module Installation/Replacement
1. Power off the desired BST1918 module by disabling the IDU in the corresponding WM4040 module.
Ensure that the “DC Power” LED is off.
2. Wait 15 seconds to allow voltage to dissipate on the WM4040 connector, then disconnect the WM4040 and
antenna cables from the rear of the corresponding module
3. Using a screwdriver, loosen the corresponding rear panel captive screws
4. Using a screwdriver, loosen the corresponding front panel captive screws until the module is free to pull
forward.
5. Remove the module and set off to the side being sure to keep the unit sitting on the bottom guide rails
6. Insert the replacement module and retighten the front panel captive screws
5. Retighten the rear panel captive screws
6. Reconnect to the WM4040 using the included RG-58 cable. If this cable is not long enough to bridge the
gap between units, ensure that 50 ohm RG-58 cable is used and the length does not exceed 10ft
7. Turn on the IDU and configure the IF/RF levels using the WM4040
8. Reconnect the rear panel antenna cable
9. Enable the IDU output

VCom Inc.
BST1918 Manual; ml_bst1918_02 (Sept 2005)
Approved: C.H.
9
3.0 OPERATION
3.1 Front Panel Description
D
DD
DIAGRAM
IAGRAMIAGRAM
IAGRAM 3.1A: F
3.1A: F3.1A: F
3.1A: FRONT
RONTRONT
RONT P
PP
PANEL
ANELANEL
ANEL –
––
– BST1918
BST1918BST1918
BST1918
As shown in Diagram 3.1A, the power/control module front panel has 3 indicator LEDs. The BST is entirely
configured and queried through the front panel display of the corresponding WM4040 module.
DC POWER LED
When the green DC POWER indicator is illuminated, the module has been correctly installed and enabled by
the WM4040.
OUTPUT ENABLED LED
When the green OUTPUT ENABLED indicator is illuminated, the internal output circuitry is enabled to provide
an RF output. The OUTPUT ENABLED indicator does not necessarily indicate the presence of an output; it
only reflects that the module is capable of an RF output if an IF input is applied and the levels configured.
ALARM LED
The red ALARM indicator fills two functions – alarm indicator and firmware update indicator. A solid Alarm
LED indicates an alarm condition and detailed alarm information is available by viewing the LCD display of
the WM4040 for status and error codes. A flashing Alarm LED indicates that the BST1918 firmware is being
updated by the WM4040.

VCom Inc.
BST1918 Manual; ml_bst1918_02 (Sept 2005)
Approved: C.H.
10
3.2 Operating Modes
For detailed information on the operating modes and controls, please refer to the WM4040 manual. The
BST1918 has the following capabilities:
BST1918 Capabilities: (refer to WM4040 manual for detailed description of modes)
WM4040 Mode WM4040 Menu WM4040 Remote
Interface Command
Transmit Frequency Tx XXXXX.XXXXMHz ORF
Output RF ALC Enable/Disable Out RF ALC AE OR
Output RF Threshold Enable Out RF Thres En TE OR
Out RF Thres H SOutput RF Threshold Set
Out RF Thres L S
TS OR
Output RF Power Set Out RF Power Set PS OR
Output RF Attenuation Set Out RF Atten Set ORA
Output IF Attenuation Set Out IF Atten Set OIA
RF Output Enable/Disable Output OE
Automatic Cable Compensation Auto Cable Comp ACE
Downstream Cable Loss IDU-ODU Cble Lss DCL
IDU Temperature IDU Temperature RTM

VCom Inc.
BST1918 Manual; ml_bst1918_02 (Sept 2005)
Approved: C.H.
11
4.0 REAR PANEL CONNECTIONS
D
DD
DIAGRAM
IAGRAMIAGRAM
IAGRAM 4.0
4.04.0
4.0A
AA
A: R
: R: R
: REAR
EAREAR
EAR P
PP
PANEL
ANELANEL
ANEL –
––
– BST1918 S
BST1918 SBST1918 S
BST1918 SYSTEM
YSTEMYSTEM
YSTEM
WM4040
The BST1918 is connected to the WM4040 by a single IF cable connection which carriers the following
signals:
-48VDC power
Low frequency signaling channel
18-42 MHz (or sub-band) for the upstream received signals
90 MHz high stability frequency reference
Sub-band of 555-570 MHz for the downstream-transmitted signal
There is active DC voltage on this cable and caution should be used when connecting and disconnecting the
unit. Be sure to have the IDU disabled in the corresponding WM4040 module when handling this cable. An
over-current shutdown circuit is used to prevent damage to either the WM4040 or BST1918.
ANTENNA
This connector should be tied to the feed cable for the antenna. Both transmit and receive signals are
present on this cable.

VCom Inc.
BST1918 Manual; ml_bst1918_02 (Sept 2005)
Approved: C.H.
12
5.0 WARRANTY AND SERVICE POLICIES
5.1 Warranty Statement
VCom warrants its products to be free from defects in workmanship or materials for a period of two years.
The warranty begins on the date of the original shipment from VCom to its customer. No claim may be
allowed for expenses incurred in installation or use. No other expressed or implied warranties shall apply to
the goods sold. VCom is not responsible for delayed shipments, other loss beyond VCom’s control, or
consequential damages of any kind arising in connection with the use of its products. This warranty is a
return-to-factory warranty only. During the warranty period VCom will at its option, replace, repair or refund
the price paid for any item which is returned for service. This warranty does not apply to units that have been
physically or environmentally abused.
5.2 Service Policies: How to Return an Item for Service:
Before returning any item for service, an R.M.A. (Returned Material Authorization) number must be assigned
by VCom. A unique R.M.A. number will be assigned for each item being returned. When requesting an
R.M.A. number, please be prepared to provide the model, VCom serial number, original invoice number, your
purchase order number and an adequate fault description. The serial number of a unit can be found on a
barcode label similar to the one pictured below. R.M.A. service is available Monday to Friday from 8:30 a.m.
to 4:30 p.m. CST (statutory holidays excepted).
To obtain an R.M.A. number you may:
Call: [phone], press ‘0’ for Operator, or ‘3’ for Service Dept.
Fax: [phone] — Attention: R.M.A. Request
Email: [email protected]
Once an R.M.A. number has been assigned, please refer to it in all correspondence and make certain that all
applicable R.M.A. numbers are clearly marked on the outside of each package being returned. You must
also ensure that each product is shipped to VCom in its original shipping container (or equivalent) via Prepaid
carrier, with appropriate insurance and customs documentation (where required). VCom will not accept
collect shipments, damaged shipments or shipments unaccompanied by an R.M.A. number.
For items still under Warranty – Items will be returned from VCom Inc. to its customer via prepaid ground
carrier. The customer is responsible for any additional costs incurred, including custom clearance and duties.
Any alternate means of shipment must be requested by the customer and will be subject to additional
charges.
For items no longer under Warranty – Items will be returned from VCom Inc. to its customer via prepaid
ground carrier at the customer’s expense. The customer is responsible for any additional costs incurred,
including custom clearance and duties. Any alternate means of shipment must be requested by the customer
and will be subject to additional charges.
Shipping Instructions will be provided by the repair center when the RMA number is sent to the
customer.

VCom Inc.
BST1918 Manual; ml_bst1918_02 (Sept 2005)
Approved: C.H.
13
5.3 Repair Charges and Warranty Exemptions
Items returned beyond the warranty period or items that do not qualify for warranty service are subject to
additional out-of-warranty repair charges. Descriptions of these charges and warranty exemptions are below:
1) Repair turnaround time is typically 5-14 business days after receipt of the item at VCom. A Flat Rate
Repair Charge
will apply to all out-of-warranty items. Flat Rate Repair Charges are subject to change without notice.
2) Any faults due to customer error (i.e. - incorrect set-up or configuration settings) are subject to the
current
Test Fee and will be exempt from warranty.
3) Items returned with inadequate fault descriptions are subject to the current Test Fee and are
exempt from warranty.
4) In the event that no fault is found, the item is subject to the current Test Fee and will be
exempt from warranty.
5) Any product exhibiting external damage (either from shipping, improper handling or use) will be subject
to inspection.
If said damages are determined to be the cause of failure, the item will be exempt from warranty.
All repairs to correct the external damage are subject to Time & Materials Charges (parts and labor at
current rates).
6) Items with damage caused by unauthorized repairs or by external devices are subject to current out-of-
warranty
Flat Rate Repair Charges and are exempt from warranty.
7) All products returned for Factory Optioning are subject to the applicable current Option Charge plus Test
Fee.
Factory-optioned products carry the balance of the original warranty or a 90 day warranty, whichever is
greater.
All out-of-warranty repairs must be approved by the customer in writing. No repairs will be made until the
customer’s Purchase Order or Out-Of-Warranty Repair Authorization is received.

150 Cardinal Place
Saskatoon, Saskatchewan
S7L 6H7
Canada
Tel: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
www.vcom.com
[email protected]