User's Manual

4 TransNET OEM Integration Guide 05-3946A01, Rev. C
2.5 Spread Spectrum Radios—How Are They Different?
The main difference between a traditional (licensed) radio and the
MDS TransNET transceiver is that this unit “hops” from channel to channel
many times per second using a specific hop pattern applied to all radios in the
network. A distinct hopping pattern is provided for each of the 65,000 avail-
able network addresses, thus minimizing the chance of interference with
other spread spectrum systems. In the USA, Canada, and certain other coun-
tries, no license is required to install and operate this type of radio system,
provided that RF power and antenna gain restrictions are observed.
2.6 Typical Applications
Multiple Address Systems (MAS)
This is the most common application of the transceiver. It consists of a central
control station (master) and two or more associated remote units, as shown in
Figure 2. This type of network provides communications between a central
host computer and remote terminal units (RTUs) or other data collection
devices. The operation of the radio system is transparent to the computer
equipment. This application provides a practical alternative to traditional
(licensed) MAS radio systems.
Invisible place holder
Figure 2. Typical MAS Network
MASTER SITE
DATA
TRANSCEIVER
RTU/PLC WITH
TRANSCEIVER
INSTALLED
RTU/PLC WITH
TRANSCEIVER
INSTALLED
RTU/PLC WITH
TRANSCEIVER
INSTALLED
RTU/PLC WITH
TRANSCEIVER
INSTALLED