GE

Digital Energy

MDS Orbit LN Series

High Speed, Long Range, Exceptional
Performance for Narrowband Licensed Networks Industrially Hardened
• Operating temperature range -40°C to 70°C
The MDS™ Orbit Licensed Narrowband (LN) Series radios implement the advanced networking and
security features of the MDS Orbit platform to bring new levels of performance and versatility to • CSA Class 1, Div 2 for hazardous locations
networks utilizing narrowband licensed spectrum in the 400 and 900 MHz frequency bands. In addition • IEEE® 1613, IEC® 61850-3 for electric
to the core feature suite derived from the Orbit platform, the LN Series radios implement high speed substation environments
QAM modulation options for a 6 times speed improvement over other narrowband solutions operating • 5-year warranty
in 6.25, 12.5 and 25 KHz channel sizes.

The MDS Orbit LN Series radios are available in both the MCR (Multiservice-Connect Router) and
ECR (Edge-Connect Router) models. Both the MCR and ECR share the same networking and security
Advanced Networking
functionality with the MCR being a dual radio router while the ECR supports a single LN radio with • 10 Watt peak power with coverage up to 50 miles
optional WiFi in a more compact form factor. The MCR-LN and ECR-LN support IP/Ethernet and serial
• Concurrent routing and bridging enables
communication for data acquisition applications to remote PLC, control and metering devices.
flexibility for a variety of network designs
Users can simultaneously operate multiple host systems, remote device types and protocols to support • Flexible quality of service (QoS) to prioritize
SCADA and M2M applications on a common infrastructure. network applications and device connectivity
• Hybrid wireless routing to support two
Key Benefits wireless media in a single device

• Improved performance for data acquisition and control networks implementing IP/Ethernet
communication to remote devices Exceptional Performance
• Repurpose narrowband networks for new applications through a 6X increase in communication speed
• QAM Modulation providing 120 kbps in 25 KHz
• Secure your network and assets by implementing best-in-class cyber security and 60 kbps in 12.5 KHz channel
• Support converged network applications and hybrid wireless solutions through advanced wireless • Real-time adaptive modulation automatically
routing and quality of service adjusts speed to signal characteristics
• Implement push communication and report by exception from remote devices • Dynamic FEC extends range in difficult
conditions
Applications • IP Header and Payload compression to
improve throughput over 30%
Oil & Gas Water & Wastewater
• Remote data collection from • Monitor lift stations across
meters and flow devices multiple sites from the control
Enterprise Security
• Monitor and transmit wellhead room • Enterprise-class device and network cyber
performance and status data • Remote PLC communication for security functionality for advanced protection of
controlling level and flow network assets
Energy • AES 128/256 encryption
• Remote control of IEDs and Heavy Industrial
• Public Key, EAP TLS, Pre-shared, Ike 1-2
controllers at distribution • Monitor and control remote
• Radius Authentication
substations pumps and compressors
• Condition monitoring for • Transmit video and remote site
reclosers and capacitor banks security information

g imagination at work
LN Series

Exceptional Network Performance Dynamic Forward Error Correction

Improved productivity, optimization, preventive maintenance, quality Users can activate GE’s MDS proprietary dynamic Forward Error
control, regulatory compliance, safety and security are just a few of the Correction (FEC) to improve the radio receive sensitivity for networks
requirements that drive the need for high performance networks to support operating in high interference environments or when operation at or near
multiple applications and deliver actionable data collected from remote, sensitivity limits is necessary. Dynamic FEC improves sensitivity between
geographically dispersed assets. 3 to 7 dBm. The LN radio automatically optimizes the FEC coding block to
the data packet size to minimize network overhead and maintain the best
The MDS Orbit MCR-LN and ECR-LN radios bring new levels of networking network throughput.
performance to users operating narrowband licensed networks in 6.26, 12.5
and 25 KHz channel sizes. CHANNEL SIZE SENSITIVITY USING QPSK MODULATION
Typical With FEC Max Coding
QAM Modulation 6.25 KHz 117 dBm 124 dBm
12.5 KHz 112 dBm 119 dBm
The LN Series radios implement QAM modulation to achieve raw data rates 25.0 KHz 107 dBm 114 dBm
up to 6 times faster than traditional FSK modulation variants typically
utilized in legacy narrowband networks. Through QAM modulation, speeds IP Header and Payload Compression
up to 120 kbps in a 25 KHz channel and 60 Kbps in 12.5 KHz are achieved.
For networks operating TCP and UDP protocols, the LN series implements
CHANNEL LEGACY IP Header and Payload compression to improve network throughput. TCP
ORBIT LN SERIES SPEED
SIZE SPEED sessions in particular involve a significant amount of handshaking between
QPSK 16QAM 64QAM host systems and remote devices. Virtual over-the-air throughput increases
6.25 KHz 4.8 kbps 9.6 kbps 19.2 kbps 28.8 kbps the raw data rates of 30% or more depending upon the compressibility of
12.5 KHz 9.6 kbps 20.0 kbps 40.0 kbp 60.0 kbps data packets being transmitted.
25.0 KHz 19.2 kbps 40.0 kbps 80.0 kbps 120.0 kbps
Media Access Control
Real Time Adaptive Modulation Media Access Control (MAC) is a critically important function particularly in
narrowband networks as it is responsible for maintaining optimal network
Real time adaptive modulation automatically selects the optimum
throughput even as more devices and applications are added. The LN
modulation type per remote radio to achieve the best speed. Adaptive
series radios implement a proprietary contention MAC designed specifically
modulation is implemented for both upstream and downstream
to consume very little overhead. The LN Series MAC guarantees that user
communication. The Access Point continually monitors signal quality and
data never collides and that data packets reach the intended destination,
adapts the modulation type accordingly.
preventing throughput drops in congested networks.

Advanced Networking
The Orbit platform endows the LN Series with an advanced array of
64QAM 16QAM QPSK networking capabilities including simultaneous Layer 2 bridging and Layer
3 routing. Tunneling, integrated terminal server functionality and protocol
conversion are also supported.

Quality of Service
Quality of Service (QoS) allows the user to prioritize the flow of information
over the network by application and interface using up to 16 QoS priorities.
Layer 2, 3 and 4 classification enables the detailed identification of all types of
applications for maximum flexibility in addition to standard 802.1p and DSCP
MDS Orbit MCR based classifications. Traffic Shaping allows users to allocate a percentage
of the uplink bandwidth on a per-application basis in order to ensure more
Distance/Channel Quality deterministic data transmission during network congestion.

Hybrid Wireless
The Orbit LN Series brings added levels of network versatility by supporting
seamless bridging and routing through multiple wireless options. This allows
users to create separate field subnetworks, extend communications, or
support integrated backhaul alternatives.

Both the MCR-LNx and ECR-LNx models support an optional, secure WiFi
option. The MCR-LNx will support a second wireless option from other Orbit
radio options including unlicensed 900 MHz or 4G LTE, and 3G cellular.

2 GEDigitalEnergy.com
 LN Series

Orbit LN Series Application Advantages

40 kb
ps – Q
PSK Host Systems
MDS ECR

80 kbps –16
QAM
Flow Meters
Valve Positioners
M
RTUs 64 QA
MDS ECR bps –
120 k

Tank Level MDS MCR

Pressure
Controllers MDS ECR

Licenced Narrowband Status

Voice over IP Access Point
Backhaul

Connectivity Performance Communication

• Connect multiple RTU and Controller types to • Use advanced QoS to prioritize critical SCADA • Concurrently operate multiple host systems,
a single remote radio over lower priority traffic applications and protocols
• Interface multivariable transmitters via • Activate compression for >30% throughput • Network security with robust encryption and
serial or WiFi improvement authentication
• Use Ethernet for PLC or Voice over IP • Adaptive modulation automatically adjusts • Use routing and bridging capabilities for more
optimum speed per remote advanced deployments

Enterprise Security Intuitive User Interface

The Orbit LN Series provides a best-in-class cyber security suite designed to An easy-to-use Graphical User Interface (GUI) allows for the quick
meet stringent security requirements such as NERC-CIP and FIPS. It offers a provisioning and maintenance from a web browser. Orbit LN Series
versatile range of options allowing the user to scale security levels to their radios support HTTP, HTTPS, and SSH. MDS Orbit’s wizards accelerate the
unique network conditions. configuration of complex network functionality by breaking down processes
into simple, concise and automated steps.
Orbit LN Series secures the network by supporting AES 128/256 encryption,
IPSec VPN encryption (server and client), certificate management, firewalling
and stateful packet inspection to insure that the data is protected, and Network Management
only valid/legitimate data is permitted to flow. The user is secured through The Orbit platform supports management using SNMPv1/v2/v3, MIN-II
central and local authentications and authorization to insure access only and Enterprise MIB. NETCONF is also supported. Manage Orbit LN Series
with proper privileges. The radio itself is secure through digitally signed networks using PulseNET NMS. PulseNET is purpose built for industrial
firmware, hardware and manufacturing implementations to insure communications and includes sophisticated and meaningful pre-built
hardware/firmware integrity. workflows along with intuitive graphical representations of the network at
your fingertips.

Orbit ECR and MCR Model Comparison

PRIMARY SECOND WIRELESS
MODEL COMMUNICATION PORTS MOUNTING
WIRELESS OPTION
MCR LN4: 400 MHz WiFi Option A: 2 Ethernet, 1 Serial, 1 USB Surface Mount
LN9: 900 MHz** 4G LTE/3G ** Option B: 1 Ethernet, 2 Serial, 1 USB DIN Mount Option
Unlicensed 900 MHz**

ECR LN4: 400 MHz WiFi 1 Ethernet, 1 Serial, 1 USB Surface Mount
LN9: 900 MHz** DIN Mount Option

GEDigitalEnergy.com 3
Specifications
GENERAL INTERFACES MECHANICAL
Frequency Configurable MCR Option A (2) 10/100 Ethernet, RJ45 Case Rugged die-cast aluminum
Operation Simplex, half-duplex (1) RS232/485 Serial, RJ45 Dimensions MCR 1.75 H x 8.0 W x 4.8 D in.
Modes Access Point, Remote, Store & (1) mini USB 2.0 4.45 H x 20.32 W x 12.19 D cm
Forward** MCR Option B (1) 10/100 Ethernet, RJ45 Weight MCR 2 lbs., .91 kg
Modulation QPSK, 16QAM, 64QAM (2) RS232/485 Serial, RJ45 Dimensions ECR 2.1 H x 4.3 W x 4.6 D in.
Per-Remote Adaptive Modulation (1) mini USB 2.0 5.33 H x 10.92 W x 11.68 D cm
FEC Dynamic Forward Error Correction ECR (1) 10/100 Ethernet, RJ45 Weight ECR 1.45 lbs., .65 kg
Compression Header and Payload Compression (1) RS232/485 Serial, RJ45
Range Up to 50 Miles ELECTRICAL CURRENT REFERENCE – 13.8V
(1) mini USB 2.0
Antenna MCR/ECR TNC Female (RP-SMA for WiFi) Primary Power 10 to 60 VDC
CHANNEL 50% Duty Cycle AP: 950 mA, Remote: 780 mA
MODULATION & SPEED
SIZE
SECURITY Idle AP: 910 mA, Remote: 350 mA
QPSK 16QAM 64QAM
IPSec VPN Server (responder) & Client (initiator)
6.25 KHz 9.6 kbps 19.2 kbps 28.8 kbps APPROVALS
Authentication Public Key, EAP TLS, Pre-shared,
12.5 KHz 20.0 kbps 40.0 kbps 60.0 kbps CSA Class 1 Div 2 for hazardous locations
Ike 1-2
25.0 KHz 40.0 kbps 80.0 kbps 120.0 kbps IEEE 1613, IEC 61850-3
User Local RBAC, AAA/Radius
FREQUENCY BANDS Authentication Industry Canada & ENTELA
Encryption 3DES, AES 128/192/256, CBC, CTR, FCC Part 90: LN4FCC Part 101: LN9** (See note below)
LN4 L4E: 406 – 470 MHz CCM, GCM, SHA 256/384/512 HMAC ETSI/CE: LN4
LN9 L9C: 928 – 960 MHz ** Firewall Stateful L3-4 Access Control List,
Layer 2 MAC Filtering, NAT, Source WIFI OPTION
TRANSMITTER
NAT (Masquerading), Static NAT, Frequency 2.4GHz
Frequency Stability +/- 0.5 ppm Port Forwarding
Peak Carrier Power 10 W/40 dBm Standard IEEE 802.11 b/g/n
Device Security Secure Boot, Secure Firmware,
Average Power QPSK: 0.1 – 5 W/10-37 dBm Digitally Signed Hardware and Maximum Data Rate: 54Mbps
(Programmable) 16QAM: 0.1 - 3.2 W/10-35 dBm Software, Magnetometer Tamper Operating Modes: Access Point, Station
64QAM: 0.1 – 2.5 W/10 – 34 dBm Detection 2 SSIDs, SSID hiding
Carrier Power +/- 1.5 dB typical Certificate Mgt. X.509, SCEP, PEM, DER, RSA VLAN mapping
Accuracy Security: WPA/WPA2 PSK, Enterprise
Output Impedance 50 Ohms ENVIRONMENTAL
Carrier Power: 20dBm adjustable
Adjacent Channel < -60 dBc Temperature -40⁰ to +70⁰ C (-40⁰ 158⁰ F)
Power Humidity 95% at 60⁰ C (140⁰ F) non- WARRANTY
condensing
RECEIVER 5-year standard warranty
Type Direct Conversion
Adjacent 60 dB nominal
Channel
Rejection
Ordering
Sensitivity Typical @ 1x10-6 BER MXNX *** N *** NNS * F 5 * UNN Description
QPSK 16QAM 64QAM Band L4E 406 -470 MHz MCR Order Code Example
6.25 KHz -117 dBm -104 dBm -96 dBm L9C 928-960 MHz **
MXNXL4ENNNNNNS1F5SUNN
12.5 KHz -112 dBm -104 dBm -94 dBm NNN No second wireless • MCR-L4E
25.0 KHz -107 dBm -99 dBm -91 dBm W51 WiFi – 802.11b/g/n • 406-470 MHz
Sensitivity w/ Dynamic FEC Max Coding 1 2-Ethernet ports, 1-Serial port • 2 Ethernet and 1 Serial port
FEC 2 1-Ethernet port, 2-Serial ports • Standard surface mounting
QPSK 16QAM 64QAM S Surface mounting bracket
bracket
6.25 KHz -124 dBm -111 dBm -103 D DIN mounting bracket
dBm
12.5 KHz -119 dBm -111 dBm -101
ECR *** N *** NS1 * USUNNN Description
dBm ECR Order Code Example
Band L4E 406 -470 MHz
25.0 KHz -114 dBm -106 dBm -98 dBm ECRL4ENW51NS1SUSUNNN
L9C 928-960 MHz **
NETWORKING NNN No second wireless • ECR-L4E
W51 WiFi – 802.11b/g/n • 406-470 M
Routing IPv4 Routing with Failover, OSPF, RIPv2
S Surface mounting bracket • 1 Ethernet and 1 Serial port
Concurrent bridging and routing
D DIN mounting bracket • WiFi option enabled
Ethernet IEEE 802.3, 802.1Q/VLANs, IGMP, STP,
64 VLANs • Standard surface mounting
** Check with factory for availability of this option. Scheduled for future release.
bracket
Tunneling Layer 2 (Ethernet) and Layer 3 GRE
Quality of Quality of Service 16 egress queues,
Service Priority Queuing, Fair Queuing,
Classification based on DSCP, 802.1p
and Layer 2-4 classifiers
IP Protocols TCP, UDP, ARP, DHCP, ICMP, NTP, FTP,
SFTP, TFTP, DNS, configurable HTTP GE
and HTTPS, SSH
Compression TCP/UDP ROHC, LZ0 175 Science Parkway
Dynamic FEC Convolutional, Reed Solomon Rochester, NY 14620
Serial TCP server, Modbus/TCP/RTU/ASCII Tel: +1-585-242-9600
conversion, TCP client, UDP Unicast
and Multicast, BSAP, and DNP3
GEDigitalEnergy.com/Communications

IEEE is a registered trademark of the Institute of Electrical Electronics Engineers, Inc.

IEC is a registered trademark of Commission Electrotechnique Internationale.

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GE, the GE monogram, MDS and Orbit are trademarks of the General Electric Company.
GE Digital Energy reserves the right to make changes to specifications of products described at any
time without notice and without obligation to notify any person of such changes.
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Copyright 2015, General Electric Company. GEA-12931(E)
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