User's Manual

22 MDS Master Station MDS 05-6399A01, Rev. D
In order for pulseNET to discover Master Stations in the network, DLINK must be enabled and properly
configured. Refer to section 5.6.5.1.2 Dlink for information on how to configure DLINK.
3.3 Redundant versus Non-redundant Operation
A redundant configuration means that the Master Station has two complete transceiver boards and power
supplies installed in the enclosure. In the event of a failure in the primary equipment, the controlling logic
switches to the stand-by unit. The stand-by transceiver board is constantly operating and its operational
readiness is monitored. However, the power amplifier in the stand-by board is not operating when it is in
stand-by mode.
In a non-redundant configuration, there is only one transceiver board installed in the enclosure, and
back-up transceiver board operation is not possible.
Transceiver boards may be moved from one Master Station to another; however an additional transceiver
board cannot be added to a non-redundant Master Station. Redundant or non-redundant operation is au-
tomatically detected by the platform manager, and the active transceiver is automatically selected. In-
stalling or replacing a transceiver board causes the board to communicate briefly with the Platform Man-
ager to establish which transceiver board will operate as the active board and which operates as the
stand-by. For more information, refer to 7.4 Replacing Modules.
3.4 Antennas and Feedlines
3.4.1 Antennas
The Master Station may be used with a number of different antennas. The exact style and gain factor de-
pend on the physical size and layout of your system. Antennas of this type are available from several
manufacturers, including GE MDS. Contact your factory representative for details. Connection is made to
the station via N coaxial connectors at the rear panel.
3.4.2 Feedlines
The selection of an antenna feedline is very important. Poor quality cable should be avoided as it will re-
sult in power losses that may reduce the range and reliability of the radio system.
The tables that follow show the approximate losses that will occur when using various lengths and types
of coaxial cable in the 200, 400 and 900 MHz bands, respectively. Regardless of the type used, the cable
should be kept as short as possible to minimize signal loss.