Operations Manual

INTRODUCTION 1-1
O&M of the MCC-545B PACKET DATA RADIO
12/2000
1.0 INTRODUCTION
The MCC-545B PACKET DATA RADIO is part of a Meteor Burst Communications System
(MBCS) that allows short and long range communications between any two Stations in the
system. The system offers continuous radio signal propagation via ground wave and meteor
burst. Ground wave covers short distances, up to 100 km (60 miles). Meteor burst covers longer
distances, up to 1,600 km (1,000 miles), reflecting signals off ionized electron trails created by
meteors entering the atmosphere at a height of about 100 km (60 miles) above the earth's surface.
These trails, called bursts, are random but predictable in number and last from a few
milliseconds to several seconds. During this time, information can be exchanged between two
Stations. The height of the trails (60 miles) gives the system its 1,000 mile range.
1.1 Presentation
This manual is divided into five major sections:
Section 2. DESCRIPTION
Discusses specifications of each module included in the 545B.
Section 3: INSTALLATION
Presents a brief outline of installation procedures for the 545B. Includes
considerations for set-up and cabling, as well as power-up procedures.
Section 4: OPERATION
Outlines operating procedures for hardware and software.
Appendix A contains printouts of 545B commands and command responses.
Appendix B contains for interfacing the Pharos Marine Data Acquisition Unit.
Appendix C contains a list of GPS units supported and instructions for interfacing each unit to
the 545B.
Appendix D contains information on configuring the 545B for use in a Flood Warning System.
Appendix E contains information on interfacing to the Campbell Scientific CR10X Data Logger.
Appendix F contains information on the event and I/O programming capability of the 545B.