User's Manual

6 MDS 1710A/C and MDS 2710A/C/D MDS 05-3447A01, Rev. F
2.0 GLOSSARY OF TERMS
If you are new to digital radio systems, some of the terms used in this
guide may be unfamiliar. The following glossary explains many of these
terms and will prove helpful in understanding the operation of the trans-
ceiver.
Active Messaging —This is a mode of diagnostic gathering that may
interrupt SCADA system polling communications (contrast with pas-
sive messaging ). Active (or intrusive) messaging is much faster than
passive messaging because it is not dependent upon the RTU polling
cycle.
Antenna System Gain —A figure, normally expressed in dB, repre-
senting the power increase resulting from the use of a gain-type antenna.
System losses (from the feedline and coaxial connectors, for example)
are subtracted from this figure to calculate the total antenna system gain.
Bit —The smallest unit of digital data, often represented by a one or a
zero. Eight bits (plus start, stop, and parity bits) usually comprise a byte.
Bits-per-second —See BPS .
BPS —Bits-per-second. A measure of the information transfer rate of
digital data across a communication channel.
Byte—A string of digital data usually made up of eight data bits and
start, stop and parity bits.
Decibel (dB)—A measure computed from the ratio between two signal
levels. Frequently used to express the gain (or loss) of a system.
Data Circuit-terminating Equipment—See DCE.
Data Communications Equipment—See DCE.
Data Terminal Equipment—See DTE.
Radio Configuration
Software
Provides diagnostics of the transceiver
(Windows-based PC required.)
03-3156A01
VOX Assembly External unit used to key the radio when
audio input is present.
03-1098A02
19-inch Rack Mounting
Kit
Allows mounting the transceiver in a
standard 19 inch rack cabinet. (Power
supply and Interface Board not included.)
02-1983A02
Brown-Out Protection
Board
PCB that protects against low voltage
conditions.
03-2567A01
Table 2. MDS 1710/2710 Series Optional Accessories (Continued)
Accessory Description MDS P/N