Start-Up Guide

Microwave Data Systems Inc.

MDS iNET 300 Series™

Wireless IP/Ethernet Transceiver

Firmware Release 1

MDS 05-4554A01, Rev. A

MAY 2006
Refer to the Installation Reference Chart
at the middle of this manual for essential
installation and configuration details.
Contents
OPERATIONAL & SAFETY NOTICES ...................................2
PRODUCT DESCRIPTION .....................................................4
MDS CYBER SECURITY SUITE.............................................5
INSTALLATION PLANNING ....................................................5
INSTALLATION STEPS .......................................................... 6
Step 1—Mount the Transceiver ...................................................6
Step 2—Install the Antenna ........................................................7
Step 3—Measure & Connect DC Power .....................................7
Step 4—Review the Transceiver’s Configuration ........................8
Step 5—Connect the Data Equipment ........................................9
Step 6—Check for Normal Operation .......................................10
Resetting to Factory Defaults.....................................................11
Performance Optimization .........................................................11

INSTALLATION REFERENCE CHART ............. (Center Insert)

AIMING DIRECTIONAL ANTENNAS ...................................13
TRANSMITTER POWER AND ANTENNA SWR TEST ........14
TROUBLESHOOTING ..........................................................15
SPECIFICATIONS ................................................................19
TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE & FACTORY SERVICE..............20

Copyright Notice
This publication is protected by U.S.A. copyright law. Copyright 2006, Microwave
Data Systems Inc. All rights reserved.

MDS 05-4554A01, Rev. A iNET 300 Series Start-Up Guide 1

Manual Revision and Accuracy
While every reasonable effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of this manual,
product improvements may result in minor differences between the manual and the
product shipped to you. If you have questions or need an exact specification for a
product, please contact our Technical Services Team using the information at the back
of this guide. Microwave Data Systems reserves its right to correct any errors or omis-
sions. Updated information may also be available on our Web site at www.micro-
wavedata.com. This manual is for the use of professionals to guide them in the
installation, operation and basic system maintenance of the equipment described.

OPERATIONAL & SAFETY NOTICES

RF Exposure Professional installation required. The radio equipment
described in this guide emits radio frequency energy.
Although the power level is low, the concentrated
energy from a directional antenna may pose a health
hazard. Do not allow people to come closer than 23 cm
(9 inches) to the antenna when the transmitter is oper-
ating in indoor or outdoor environments. More informa-
tion on RF exposure is available on the Internet at
www.fcc.gov/oet/info/documents/bulletins.
Installation in Hazardous Locations
The transceiver is not acceptable as a stand-alone unit for use in hazardous locations.
It must either be mounted within another piece of equipment which is certified for
hazardous locations, or installed within guidelines, or conditions of approval set forth
below:

1. The transceiver must be mounted within a separate enclosure which is suitable for
the intended application.
2. The antenna feedline, DC power cable and interface cable must be routed through
conduit in accordance with applicable electrical codes.
3. Installation, operation and maintenance of the transceiver should be in accordance
with the transceiver's manual, and applicable electrical codes.
4. Tampering or replacement with non-factory components may adversely affect the
safe use of the transceiver in hazardous locations, and may void the approval.
5. A power connector with screw-type retaining screws as supplied by the
manufacturer must be used.
6. Articles 500 through 502 of the National Electrical Code (NFPA 70) provide fur-
ther information on hazardous locations and approved wiring methods.

Do not connect or disconnect equipment unless

power has been switched off or the area is
known to be non-hazardous.
EXPLOSION Refer to Articles 500 through 502 of the National
HAZARD! Electrical Code (NFPA 70) for further information
on hazardous locations and approved Division 2
wiring methods.

2 iNET 300 Series Start-Up Guide MDS 05-4554A01, Rev. A

Environmental Information
The manufacture of this equipment has required the extraction and use of natural
resources. Improper disposal may contaminate the environment and present a health
risk due to hazardous substances contained within. To avoid dissemination of these
substances into our environment, and to limit the demand on natural resources, we
encourage you to use the appropriate recycling systems for disposal. These systems
will reuse or recycle most of the materials found in this equipment in a sound way.
Please contact MDS or your supplier for more information on the proper disposal of
this equipment.
About This Guide
This guide presents installation and initial operating instructions for the
MDS iNET 300™ Wireless IP/Ethernet transceiver. Following installation, we sug-
gest keeping this guide near the equipment for future reference.
The scope of this manual is limited to the safe and effective installation of the unit in
typical office or non-hazardous industrial settings. Users who require optimization of
the equipment’s capabilities and operating range should read the MDS iNET Series
User’s Guide, P/N 05-2806A01. This manual provides more in-depth information on
antenna selection and optimization, and extensive coverage on user-controllable
parameters and diagnostic tools.
Key installation information is contained on the Installation Reference Chart found at
the center of this guide.

MDS 05-4554A01, Rev. A iNET 300 Series Start-Up Guide 3

PRODUCT DESCRIPTION
The MDS iNET 300 transceiver is designed to provide wireless
Ethernet connectivity over long distances. The transceiver comes in
two models—Access Point and Remote.
Three types of Remote units are available—the Ethernet Bridge, the
Serial Gateway, and the Dual Gateway. Table 1 summaries the dif-
ferent interfaces for each type of radio.
A transceiver can be configured by the owner to operate as an Access
Point or as a Remote with some restrictions. Only the Dual Gateway
Remote units can be reconfigured as an Access Point. Ethernet Bridge
and Serial Gateway Remotes cannot be reconfigured as Access Points
unless they are first upgraded to Dual Gateway type. This is accom-
plished with an “Authorization Key” purchased from the factory. Each
one of these individual software keys is associated with the serial
number of the corresponding unit.
Table 1. Transceiver Models and Data Interface Services
Model Type LAN1 COM11 COM2

Access Point3 N/A Yes Yes Yes

Remote… Ethernet Bridge2 Yes No No

Serial Gateway2 No Yes Yes

Dual Gateway3 Yes Yes Yes

NOTES
1. Provides access to the embedded Menu System on all units.
2. Can be upgraded to Dual Gateway with an Authorization Key.
3. Can be configured as an Access Point or Dual Gateway through
the embedded Menu System.

Transceivers serve as either an “Access Point” or “Remote.” An

Access Point (AP) is a wireless hub that usually provides connectivity
into a wired Ethernet LAN/WAN. From a radio perspective, an Access
Point serves as the network’s “master station” providing synchroniza-
tion data to all associated Remotes within its network.

4 iNET 300 Series Start-Up Guide MDS 05-4554A01, Rev. A

MDS CYBER SECURITY SUITE
The operation and management of an enterprise is becoming
increasing dependent on electronic information flow. An accompa-
nying concern is the cyber security of the communication infrastruc-
ture.
The iNET 300 transceiver is capable of dealing with many common
security issues. Table 2 profiles security risks and how the transceiver
provides a solution for minimizing vulnerability. In all cases, the Secu-
rity Configuration Menu should be reviewed and set to the required
parameters for your environment. Please refer to the User’s Guide
(05-2806A01) for more detailed information.

Table 2. iNET 300 Cyber Security Highlights

Security Level Specification
• MDS Cyber Security • RC4-128 encryption
Suite, Level 3: • Automatic rotating key algorithm
• Management: SNMPv3
• Approved AP/Remotes list (local authentication)
• Failed login lockdown
• 300 MHz operation and proprietary data framing

INSTALLATION PLANNING
This section provides steps for installation and start-up of the equip-
ment.

General Requirements
There are three main requirements for installing the transceiver. They
are: adequate and stable DC power, a good antenna system, and the
correct interface between the transceiver and the data device. The
Installation Reference Chart (center of this guide) shows a typical
Remote installation. Access Point stations typically use omnidirec-
tional antennas whereas Remotes typically use directional antennas
such as a Yagi. Otherwise, the installations are similar.

MDS 05-4554A01, Rev. A iNET 300 Series Start-Up Guide 5

INSTALLATION STEPS
A typical product shipment consists of a transceiver, a power con-
nector and this start-up guide.
Below are the basic steps for installing a transceiver. Should further
information be needed, see “TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE” on Page
20 of this manual for information on contacting the MDS Technical
Services Group. You will also find support information at the Micro-
wave Data Systems Web site: www.microwavedata.com.
It is highly recommended that the Access Point unit be installed first.
With this plan, you can quickly check the operation of each associated
Remote as it is placed on the air.
NOTE: Transceivers are shipped from the factory set to the “Remote”
mode unless they are marked differently.

Step 1—Mount the Transceiver

Mount the radio to a stable surface. (Fasteners/anchors or screws are
not supplied.) Four threaded holes are located on the bottom of the
radio that are suitable for connecting mounting hardware. Use 6-32 x
1/4 inch (6 mm length) screws to attach mounting hardware to the
bottom of the radio. Figure 1 shows the mounting dimensions.
Invisible place holder
2.75˝ (7 cm)

10.47˝ (26.6 cm)

Figure 1. Transceiver mounting dimensions

6 iNET 300 Series Start-Up Guide MDS 05-4554A01, Rev. A

 CAUTION Screws used to hold the mounting brackets to the radio
POSSIBLE case should be SAE 6-32 and should not extend farther
EQUIPMENT than 1/4 inch (6 mm) into case. This will prevent dam-
DAMAGE age to the transceiver’s internal PC board.

Step 2—Install the Antenna

To minimize radio frequency interference, the antenna should be
mounted at least nine inches (> 23 cm) from the connected device(s),
sensors and other components of the system. Additional information
on antenna selection and installation is provided in the
MDS iNET Series User’s Guide.

Step 3—Measure & Connect DC Power

The DC power applied to the transceiver must be within 10–16 Vdc
and be capable of continuously providing up to 2 Amperes. A power
connector with screw-terminals is provided with each unit. Strip the
wire leads to 6 mm (0.25"). Be sure to observe proper polarity as
shown in Figure 1 with the positive lead (+) on the left.
Invisibleplaceholder
Lead
Binding
Screws (2)
+–

Wire Ports

Figure 2. Power Connector

Polarity: Left +, Right –

CAUTION The transceiver must be used only with negative-ground

POSSIBLE systems. Make sure the polarity of the power source is
EQUIPMENT correct. Review complete power requirements in the
User’s Guide, Part No. 05-2806A01.
DAMAGE

The power supply used with the transceiver should be equipped with
overload protection (NEC Class 2 rating), to protect against a short cir-
cuit between its output terminals and the transceiver power connector.
NOTE: It typically takes about 20 seconds for the transceiver to power
up, and about 10 to associate with another unit.

MDS 05-4554A01, Rev. A iNET 300 Series Start-Up Guide 7

Step 4—Review the Transceiver’s Configuration
Two essential settings for the transceiver must be set before a link can
be established. They are:
• Device Mode—Access Point, or Remote (default).
• Network Name—Common identifier used by all of the units,
which are part of the same network (required).
The Network Name must match to enable Remote units to associate
with the Access Point unit.
Other parameters that commonly need review or adjustment are:
• IP Address—Must be a unique address to allow access to the
Menu System through the LAN port or over-the-air.
(Default = 192.168.1.1)
• RF Output Power Level—Check and adjust as necessary for
compliance with regulatory guidelines. (Default: +37 dBm.)
• Data Rate—AUTO selection (default) allows maximum data rate
for the current signal level. (The stronger the signal, the higher
the data rate.) Available data rates are 256 kbps and 512 kbps.
• Password—Used for remote access and Menu System features.
NOTE: The default password is admin. For web access, a username is
also required. The default username is iNET.
A unique IP address and subnet are required to access the Menu
System, either through the LAN port, or remotely over-the-air.
A summary of selected operating parameters’ range and default values
is included in the Reference Chart at the center of this booklet.
How to Review the Transceiver’s Configuration

The following is an overview of the configuration procedure. For

detailed instructions on using the HTTP (LAN Port) and text-based
(COM1) Menu System, please refer to the User’s Guide. Key menu
selections are shown at the center of this guide.

a. Connect a computer’s serial communications port to the COM1

Port using a straight-through cable.

b. Launch a terminal emulator program, such as HyperTerminal,

on the computer. Configure to: 19,200 bps/8N1/no handshak-
ing/VT100.

8 iNET 300 Series Start-Up Guide MDS 05-4554A01, Rev. A

 c. Press the ENTER key. You will be prompted for a password
(default = admin) to access the Menu System.

d. Press G to go to the Main Menu.

e. Press B to go to the Network Configuration Menu. Program the

radio’s Network Name.

f. Review other settings and make changes if necessary, such as

the unit password, IP address and security.
Repeat the above steps for each unit in the network.
NOTE: The Menu System’s “configuration files” will aid in
uniformly configuring multiple units. The use of these files is
described in the User’s Guide.

Step 5—Connect the Data Equipment

Ethernet Example:

a. Connect Ethernet-compatible data equipment to the trans-

ceiver’s LAN port (10BaseT). Use a straight-through Ethernet
cable to connect the LAN port to a hub, and a crossover cable
to connect it directly to an Ethernet PLC/RTU. See the Refer-
ence Chart at the middle of this guide for more information.

IP-to-Serial Example:

a. Connect serial RS-232 compatible equipment using a cross-

over cable to COM2.

b. Configure the port as shown in Table 3.

c. From the PC, establish a TCP connection to the IP address of

the Remote transceiver and to the IP port. A Telnet client
application can be used to establish this connection. Data may
now be sent between the PC and the RTU or other connected
device.

MDS 05-4554A01, Rev. A iNET 300 Series Start-Up Guide 9

 Table 3. Serial Port Configuration (COM2)
Transceiver Menu Item Setting
Location
Access Point None is required None is required
Remote Unit IP Address 192.168.0.2
Status Enabled
IP Protocol TCP
Baud Rate 9,600 (Example)
Flow Control None
Local IP Port 30011

Step 6—Check for Normal Operation

In this step you will verify the proper operation of wireless communi-
cations between an Access Point and the associated Remotes.
At All Units...
Observe the transceiver’s LED panel (See Reference Chart) for the
proper indications. In a normally operating system, the radio will usu-
ally become associated in less than one minute from start-up.
At the Access Point Unit...

a. If the Access Point unit is the first unit you are installing, send
a PING command to it through the LAN port. This verifies basic
LAN connectivity.

b. If you have already installed a Remote unit, try sending a PING

to that unit through the Menu System PING utility.
At Remote Units...

a. Look for the LINK LED to turn on and remain on. This indi-
cates the unit has successfully associated with the network’s
Access Point. (The association process may take several sec-
onds.)

10 iNET 300 Series Start-Up Guide MDS 05-4554A01, Rev. A

 b. Check the Starting Information screen for the Device Status
(also known as Connection Status). It will show one of the fol-
lowing:
Scanning—The unit is looking for an Access Point beacon
signal.
Exp(ecting) Sync(hronization)—The unit has found a valid
beacon signal for its network.
Hop Sync—The unit has changed its frequency hopping pat-
tern to match that of the Access Point.
Connected —The unit has a radio (RF) connection with the
Access Point, but has not obtained cyber-security clearance
to pass data.
Associated —This unit has successfully synchronized and
associated with an Access Point. This is the normal status.
Alarmed—The unit is has detected one or more alarms that
have not been cleared.

c. When the network is operating properly based on observation

of the unit’s LEDs, connect a computer to the transceiver’s
data port that will be used by the local terminal equipment.
Send the PING command to verify the communications link
integrity with the Access Point.

d. After the PING command is successful, connect the terminal

equipment to the radio’s data port and verify normal opera-
tion.
If all checks are OK, you are finished with the installation at this site.

Resetting to Factory Defaults (Use with Care)

This procedure may be useful when several parameters have been
modified, and there is no track of changes. It causes the transceiver to
return to a known-operational state.
To reset all transceiver parameters back to the factory defaults,
including the password (default = admin), you must enter a special
code (authorization key) provided by the factory in place of the user
name at the time of login. Contact the factory for more information.

MDS 05-4554A01, Rev. A iNET 300 Series Start-Up Guide 11

Performance Optimization
After the basic operation of the network has been verified, you may
wish to optimize its performance using the suggestions given below.
The effectiveness of these techniques will vary with the amount of
data being handled.
Optimize Received Signal Strength

Check the received signal strength indicator (RSSI) for an adequate

signal level from the radio network’s Access Point. (RSSI is available
through the Menu System.) In the absence of interference, signal
levels that are sufficient to provide reliable operation (with a 15 dB
fade margin) are: ≥ –86 dBm @ 256 kbps, ≥ –82 dBm @ 512 kbps.
If the signal levels are lower, it may be necessary to reposition the sta-
tion’s antenna for better reception/signal strength.
Minimize Packet Retries

If the Wireless Packet Statistics’ retry packet counter is unacceptably

high, several techniques can be used to improve it. These include iden-
tifying interference and taking corrective steps such as skipping some
radio frequencies from the hopping pattern, increasing the gain of the
Remote unit’s antenna system, relocating the Remote’s antenna, or
installing a repeater system.
Blocking Out Zones

The transceiver uses channels in the 336–344 MHz spectrum, with

selectable hopping from 1 to 25 channels.
NOTE: All radios (AP and Remotes) must be set to use the same chan-
nels in order to establish a link. If this is not done, the radios
will not connect.
Usage key for Channel Configuration Menu:
n (no) = Radio channel is not used
y (yes) = Radio channel is used
NA (not available) = Radio channel is not available
Other selections on Channel Configuration Menu:
Clear All—This command clears all entries in the Channel Config
Menu, resetting the available channels to “no usage.” Channels that
are not available for use will appear with a notation of or NA. These

12 iNET 300 Series Start-Up Guide MDS 05-4554A01, Rev. A

channels are not available because of pre-existing conditions, and are
not user-configurable.
Enter Channels—This allows selection of the channels used for fre-
quency hopping operation. You can enter a selection using any of the
methods below:

a. One or more individual channel numbers separated by com-

mas (example: 1,3,6,9)

b. A range of channel numbers separated by a dash

(example: 6-10)

c. One of the keywords (example: all, even, odd)

d. A combination of individual channels and channel number

ranges (example: 1,3,6,9,16-20,25)
NOTE: The selection of particular channels will result in an indication
of y. Be aware that these channels do not become active until
the Commit Changes selection is invoked.
Commit Changes—This re-boots the radio and loads the active chan-
nels into the frequency list for frequency hopping operation.

AIMING DIRECTIONAL ANTENNAS

In general, signal levels stronger than –80 dBm will provide reliable
communication in the network. Directional antennas usually require
some fine-tuning of their bearing to optimize the received signal
strength. The unit has a built-in received signal strength indicator
(RSSI) that can be used as an aid to optimizing the received signal
level. The measurement and antenna alignment process usually takes
less than 10 minutes at each unit.
RSSI measurements and Wireless Packet Statistics are based on mul-
tiple samples over a period of several seconds. The average of these
measurements is displayed by the Menu System.
In the steps below, the path to the Menu System item is shown in bold
text.

MDS 05-4554A01, Rev. A iNET 300 Series Start-Up Guide 13

Procedure
1. Verify the Remote is associated with an Access Point unit by
observing the LINK LED. It should be on or blinking.
2. View and record the Wireless Packets Dropped and Received
Error rates. This information will be used later.
Main Menu>Performance Information>Packet Statistics>Wireless
Packet Statistics
3. Read the RSSI level at the Remote.
Main Menu>Performance Information>RSSI by Zone
4. Optimize RSSI by slowly adjusting direction of antenna. Watch
the RSSI indication for several seconds after making each adjust-
ment so that the RSSI accurately reflects any change in the link
signal strength. The less negative the number, the stronger the sig-
nal.
5. View the Wireless Packets Dropped and Received Error rates at
the point of maximum RSSI level. They should be the same or
lower than the previous reading.
Main Menu>Performance Information>Packet Statistics>Wireless
Packet Statistics

If the RSSI peak results in an increase in the Packets Dropped and

Received Error, the antenna may be aimed at an undesired signal.
Try a different antenna orientation.

TRANSMITTER POWER AND ANTENNA

SWR TEST
The following procedure may be used to measure the transmitter’s RF
power output and SWR “match” of the antenna system. A directional
wattmeter is required for the test, such as a Bird Model 43, with an
appropriate element installed.
Before you start, keep in mind that using the Test Mode will disrupt
network operation.

Procedure
1. Connect a directional wattmeter between the ANTENNA port and
the antenna system.

14 iNET 300 Series Start-Up Guide MDS 05-4554A01, Rev. A

2. Place the transceiver into the Radio Test Mode.
Main Menu>Maintenance/Tools Menu>Radio Test>Test Mode>Y>ON
NOTE: The Test Mode has a 10-minute timer, after which it will
return the transceiver to normal operation. The Test Mode can also
be terminated manually, via the menu.
3. Set the transmitter RF output power to 30 dBm.
Main Menu>Maintenance/Tools Menu>Radio Test>Test Mode>
Tx Power Output

NOTE: The Test Mode RF power setting will not affect the output
level during normal operation.
4. Turn on (key) the transmitter.
Main Menu>Maintenance/Tools Menu>Radio Test>Test Mode>
TxKey> Enable
User the spacebar to key and unkey the transmitter ON and OFF.
(Enable/Disable)
5. Measure the forward and reflected power into the antenna system
and calculate the SWR. The ratio should be less than 2:1. The
power output level should agree with the programmed value set in
Step 3.
Main Menu>Radio Configuration>RF Power Output

6. Turn off Test Mode at the Access Point and Remote radio.
Main Menu>Maintenance/Tools Menu>Radio Test>Test Mode>Dis-
able

TROUBLESHOOTING
It is best to begin troubleshooting at the Access Point, because the rest
of the system depends on it for network synchronization and configu-
ration. If the Access Point has problems, the operation of the entire
network will be affected.
All radios in the network must meet these basic requirements:
• Adequate and stable DC power
• An efficient and properly aligned antenna system
• Secure connections (RF, data & power)

MDS 05-4554A01, Rev. A iNET 300 Series Start-Up Guide 15

 • Proper programming of the unit’s operating parameters, espe-
cially Device Mode selection (Access Point/Remote), Network
Name, and IP Address
• The correct interface between the radio and the connected data
equipment (proper cable wiring, data format and timing)
Table 4 provides suggestions for resolving common system difficul-
ties using the front panel LEDs as a guide. Table 5 on Page 17 pro-
vides guidance using the Menu System as a tool. If problems persist,
review the MDS Web site’s technical support area for general trouble-
shooting help, service information, and recent software/firmware
updates at www.microwavedata.com/service/technical/support.
Additional help is available from the MDS Technical Services Depart-
ment. See “TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE” on Page 20 for contact
information.

Table 4. Troubleshooting Using LEDs

Symptom Problem/Recommended Checks
PWR LED a. Voltage too low—Check for proper supply voltage at
does not the power connector (10–16 Vdc).
light.
b. Indefinite Problem—Cycle the power and wait
(≈ 30 seconds) for the unit to reboot. Then, recheck for
normal operation.
PWR LED is a. Blinking indicates the presence of an alarm condition.
blinking. b. View Current Alarm List and Error Log and correct the
problem if possible.
c. Blinking continues until the fault is corrected, for
example, a valid IP address is entered, etc.

16 iNET 300 Series Start-Up Guide MDS 05-4554A01, Rev. A

 Table 4. Troubleshooting Using LEDs (Continued)
Symptom Problem/Recommended Checks
LINK LED a. Network Name of Remote not identical to desired
does not Access Point—Verify that the system has a unique
light. Network Name.
b. Not yet associated with an Access Point with the same
Network Name.
Check the “Status” of the unit’s process of associating
with the Access Point. Use the Menu System.
c. Poor Antenna System—Check the antenna, feedline
and connectors. Reflected power should be less than
10% of the forward power reading (SWR 2:1 or lower).
LAN LED a. Verify the Ethernet cable is connect at both ends.
does not turn b. Verify that the appropriate type of Ethernet cable is
on. used: straight-through, or crossover as required.

Table 5. Troubleshooting with the Menu System

Symptom Problem/Recommended System Checks
Remote does not a. Verify the AP has sufficiently large number in the
associate; stays in “Max Remotes” parameter of the Network
HOPSYNC Configuration Menu.
b. Verify the correct MAC address is listed in the
“Approved Remotes List” or “Approved Access
Points List” of the Security Configuration menu.
Serial data is slow a. Change Beacon Period to FAST.
with UDP multicast (Radio Configuration Menu)
traffic
Display on a. Verify the terminal/terminal emulator or Telnet
terminal/Telnet application is set to VT100
screen garbled

MDS 05-4554A01, Rev. A iNET 300 Series Start-Up Guide 17

 Table 5. Troubleshooting with the Menu System
Symptom Problem/Recommended System Checks
Cannot access the a. Connect to unit via Telnet or Web browser
MS through COM1 b. Disable the serial mode for COM1
(Serial Gateway Configuration>Com1 Serial
Data Port>Status>Disabled)
or, if you know the unit’s data configuration...
c. Connect to COM 1 via a terminal set to VT100
and the port’s data baud rate.
d. Type “+++ [ENTER]”
e. Change the terminal’s baud rate to match the
transceiver’s Console Baud Rate.
f. Type “+++ [ENTER]”
Cannot pass IP a. Verify your IP settings.
data to WAN.
b. Use the PING command to test communication
with units in the local radio system.
c. If successful with local PING, attempt to PING an
IP unit attached to another radio.
d. If successful with the LAN PINGs, try connecting
to a known unit in the WAN.
Wireless Retries Possible Radio Frequency Interference—
too high. a. If omnidirectional antennas are used, consider
changing to directional antennas. This will often
limit interference to and from other stations.
b. Try skipping zones where persistent interference
is known or suspected.
c. The installation of a filter in the antenna feedline
may be necessary. Consult the factory for further
assistance.
Password a. Connect to the unit using a terminal through the
forgotten. COM1 Port.
b. Consult the factory. Get a password-resetting
Authorization Key.
c. Enter the Authorization Key at the login prompt
as a password.

18 iNET 300 Series Start-Up Guide MDS 05-4554A01, Rev. A

SPECIFICATIONS
GENERAL
Temperature Range: –30° C to +60° C (–22° F to 140° F)
Humidity: 95% at +40° C (104° F); non-condensing
Primary Power: 10–16 Vdc (13.8 Vdc, Nominal)
Supply Current (typical): (@ 1 Watt RF Output)
Transmit: 8 Watts (580 mA @ 13.8 Vdc)
Receive: 2.8 Watts (203 mA @ 13.8 Vdc)
Size (Excluding mtg. hardware): 1.5" x 8" x 4" (H x W x D)
3.8 x 20.3 x 10.2 cm
Weight: 0.9 kg / 2 lb
Case: Cast Aluminum

RADIO CHARACTERISTICS
GENERAL:
Frequency Range: 336–344 MHz Industrial, Scientific &
Medical (ISM) Band
Mode: Freq. Hopping Spread-Spectrum (FHSS)
Boot Time: ≈ 20 sec
Time Required to Associate
with Access Point: ≈ 10 sec

TRANSMITTER:
Power Output
(at antenna connector): 0.1 watt (+20 dBm) fixed
0.5 to 5.0 watts (+27 to +37 dBm) variable
Duty Cycle: Continuous
Output Impedance: 50 Ohms

RECEIVER:
Type: Double conversion superheterodyne
Sensitivity (< 1x10-6 BER): –92 dBm @ 512 kbps
–101 dBm @ 256 kbps

MDS 05-4554A01, Rev. A iNET 300 Series Start-Up Guide 19

TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE
Technical assistance for MDS products is available from our Tech-
nical Support Department during business hours (8:00 A.M.–5:30
P.M. Eastern Time). When calling, please give the complete model
number of the radio, along with a description of the trouble
symptom(s) that you are experiencing. In many cases, problems can be
resolved over the telephone, without the need for returning the unit to
the factory.

Phone: 585 241-5510 E-Mail: [email protected]

FAX: 585 242-8369 Web: www.microwavedata.com

FACTORY SERVICE
If return of the equipment is necessary, please contact the MDS Tech-
nical Support Team. You will be issued a Service Request Order
(SRO) number. The SRO number will help expedite the repair so that
the equipment can be repaired and returned to you as quickly as pos-
sible. Please be sure to include the SRO number on the outside of the
shipping box, and on any correspondence relating to the repair. No
equipment will be accepted for repair without an SRO number.
A statement should accompany the radio describing, in detail, the
trouble symptom(s), and a description of any associated equipment
normally connected to the radio. It is also important to include the
name and telephone number of a person in your organization who can
be contacted if additional information is required.
The radio must be properly packed for return to the factory. The orig-
inal shipping container and packaging materials should be used when-
ever possible. All factory returns should be addressed to:

Microwave Data Systems Inc.

Customer Service Department
(SRO No. XXXX)
175 Science Parkway
Rochester, NY 14620 USA
When repairs have been completed, the equipment will be returned to you by
the same shipping method used to send it to the factory. Please specify if you
wish to make different shipping arrangements. To inquire about an in-process
repair, you may contact our Product Services Group at 585-241-5540 (FAX:
585-242-8400), or via e-mail at [email protected].

20 iNET 300 Series Start-Up Guide MDS 05-4554A01, Rev. A

Installation Guide
 Microwave Data Systems Inc.
175 Science Parkway
Rochester, NY 14620
General Business: +1 585 242-9600
FAX: +1 585 242-9620
Web: www.microwavedata.com

A product of Microwave Data Systems Inc.