User Manual

6 MDS 1710A/C and MDS 2710A/C/D MDS 05-3447A01, Rev. F
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.
dBi—Decibels referenced to an “ideal” isotropic radiator in free space.
Frequently used to express antenna gain.
dBm—Decibels referenced to one milliwatt. An absolute unit used to
measure signal power, as in transmitter power output, or received signal
strength.
DCE—Data Circuit-terminating Equipment (or Data Communications
Equipment). In data communications terminology, this is the “modem”
side of a computer-to-modem connection. The transceiver described in
this guide is a DCE device.
Digital Signal Processing—See DSP.
DSP—Digital Signal Processing. In the transceiver, the DSP circuitry is
responsible for the most critical real-time tasks; primarily modulation,
demodulation, and servicing of the data port.
DTE—Data Terminal Equipment. A device that provides data in the
form of digital signals at its output. Connects to the DCE device.
Equalization—The process of reducing the effects of amplitude, fre-
quency or phase distortion with compensating networks.