EnCOVER VE™ Dual-Band Instant Coverage Solution User Manual REV:A00 Date: DEC 2009
Preface Material MobileAccess 8391 Old Courthouse Road, Suite 300, Vienna, VA 22182 Tel: +1(866)436-9266, +1(703)848-0200 TAC: +1(800)787-1266, Fax: +1(703)848-0280 http://www.MobileAccess.
Preface Material Preface Material © Copyright 2009, MobileAccess Networks Inc. All Rights Reserved. MobileAccess™ is a registered trademark of MobileAccess. This document contains other trademarks, trade names and service marks of MobileAccess and other organizations, all of which are the property of their respective owners.
Preface Material Returns In the event that it is necessary to return any product against above warranty, the following procedure shall be followed: 1. Return authorization is to be received from MobileAccess prior to returning any unit. Advise MobileAccess of the model, serial number, and discrepancy. The unit may then be forwarded to MobileAccess, transportation prepaid. Devices returned collect or without authorization may not be accepted. 2.
Preface Material Certification and Compliance to Standards Category Standards Safety: IEC 60950-1: 2003; UL-60950-1:2003; CAN/CSA – C22.2 No 60950-1-03 EMC: EN 301489-8 V1.2.1:2002; EN 301489-1 V1.5.1:2004; EN 61000 V4.6:2005 EN 55022 V4.2:2001 / FCC Part 15; VCCI Class A for VCU and Class B for VAP Radio: GSM/DCS - EN-301502 V8.1.2: 2001; EN-301908 v3.2.1:2006; EN 300 609-4 V8.
Preface Material About This Guide This guide provides essential product functionality with all the information necessary for proper installation and configuration of the EnCOVER VE™ system.
Table of Contents 1 Overview ............................................................................................................................... 1 1.1 System Architecture .................................................................................................................. 2 1.2 System Elements ...................................................................................................................... 3 1.2.1 EnCOVER VE™ Control Unit (VCU).................................
Table of Contents 4.4 Provisioning the EnCOVER VE™ Control Unit ............................................................................. 23 4.4.1 Configure the Computer Network Parameters ................................................................... 23 4.4.2 Provisioning the Master VCU Unit .................................................................................... 25 4.4.3 Provisioning the Slave VCUs.......................................................................................
1 Overview MobileAccess EnCOVER VE™ Dual-Band solution provides enhanced, cost effective in-building dual-band coverage for small to large-sized enterprises. This solution is quickly and simply deployed using the existing Ethernet cabling infrastructure to provide instant coverage without requiring the installation of new cables.
Overview Multi-tier installation includes the Master VCU that supports up to twelve Slave VCUs. In this type of installation the provider’s services are fed to the Master VCU through which the Slave VCUs are controlled and managed. Figure 2. Multi Tier VE™ Installation 1.
Overview Note: The system supports up to 12 VAPs per VCU, where in Master Slave configurations up to 144 VAPs can be installed (12 VAPs x 12 VCUs). The following figure shows the Dual Band EnCOVER VE™ solution architecture (multi-tier). Figure 3. EnCOVER VE™ Multi-Tier Basic Architecture The Master VCU distributes the wireless services from the service provider’s equipment to the Slave VCUs.
Overview 1.2.1.1 VCU Front Panel The front panel supports the interfaces to the wireless services (two services – corresponding to the two supported bands) and includes the VAP interfaces (that can also serve as Slave VCU interfaces in Master/Slave VCU configuration). The front panel also interfaces to the Ethernet switch, includes two connectors for receiving the wireless services from the Master VCU and the management interface. Control and management interfaces.
Overview The following provides a description of the front panel LEDs.
Overview 1.2.1.2 VCU Rear Panel The rear panel includes the power input, the AUX alarms and service personnel connections. Console connector AUX Alarms Figure 5. VCU Rear Panel PWR On/Off switch AC connector Table 3: VCU Rear Panel Description Connector Description Console RS232 local connection for service personnel Alarms AUX alarms connections - see 4.2 Power Input Standard 3-pins AC power connector equipped with an ON/OFF switch. 90-264V AC, 47-63 Hz AC; 350W power consumption maximum.
Overview 1.3 EnCOVER VE™ Access Pod (VAP) Each VAP provides the following functions: • Antenna – distributes the wireless services signals. The antenna is internal, where an external (optional) antenna can also be connected (in models supporting external antenna). • Connection to Ethernet port – relevant when connected to jacks that provide an Ethernet connection to a user terminal. The VAP can be mounted/hung on the wall or placed on a flat surface (such as a desk).
Overview Figure 8: VAP LEDs LED Power Activity 1.3.
Installation Workflow 2 Installation Workflow The following figure summarizes the main steps of the installation procedure: Dual Band EnCOVER VE™ Instant Coverage Solution User Manual 9
Infrastructure Requirements and Layout Planning 3 Infrastructure Requirements and Layout Planning 3.1 General information on Location and Connections • Service provider’s RF equipment - Macro-cell, Micro-cell, Pico-cell, Femto-cell, BDA, etc. connects to the VCU through a passive interface. • VCUs: • Master VCU installed at the main IDF/telco cabinet and connected to al VCUs. • Slave VCUs installed at the IDF/telco cabinet of each covered floor and connected to the cabling patch panel.
Infrastructure Requirements and Layout Planning 3.2 Infrastructure Requirements 1. IDF/Telco closet space for one or more VCUs depending on the number and locations of the installed VCUs: (48.3 x 51.3 x 8.88 cm) per VCU. Note: When planning the IDF/telco shaft, take the RF equipment (pico-cell/micro-cell or BDA) and the VCU in to consideration. 2. 350 Watts of AC power to the VCU IDF/Telco closet. 3.
Infrastructure Requirements and Layout Planning 3.3 Coverage and Installation Planning Note: The following section provides the information required for planning the VAP installation on a single floor. In a multi-tier installation, this procedure is performed for each floor separately. The maximal coverage area of each VAP is affected by the density and type of environment to be covered.
Infrastructure Requirements and Layout Planning 3.3.1.1 Open environment An environment with minimum of obstacles (such as walls). This type of space can be a large conference or meeting room, cubical areas, lobby or atrium areas. Table 4: Open Environment Installation Distances Band and Technology Downlink Frequency Signal Propagation from VAP Recommend spacing between VAPs Recommended maximum distance of VAPs from outer walls Coverage Area per VAP 3.3.1.
Infrastructure Requirements and Layout Planning 3.3.1.3 Dense Environment: A dense environment consists of a relatively large amount of walls, offices, equipment, tall file cabinets, bookshelves and other items that could potentially impact the wireless signal. Examples for this type of environment are dense offices, hospitals and manufacturing spaces.
Infrastructure Requirements and Layout Planning • 3.4.2 Types of glass (typically exterior or mirrored) that have metallic coatings on it which can affect RF coverage, however that is typically not encountered inside a building. Mapping Locations To map the VAP Locations 1. Map out the available Ethernet jack locations: mark all the CAT-5e/6 drops locations on the floor plan map. TIP: The size and number of the ceiling tiles can be used to measure distances. 2.
Infrastructure Requirements and Layout Planning 3.4.4 Installation Plan Example The Following figure shows a floor plan map with all required marks: Figure 10. Floor Plan Example Notes: • The red VAP coverage circles are approximately 45, 58 and 67 foot (14, 18 and 21 m) radius for the small, medium and large circles respectively (drawn according to the guidelines for UMTS service, given in section 3.3.1).
Infrastructure Requirements and Layout Planning The following figure depicts an actual measured quantified coverage of a floor area planed according to the above rules Figure 11. Distributed VAPs propagation, 12dBm output power @ 1.
VCU Unit Installation and Configuration 4 VCU Unit Installation and Configuration This section describes the installation and configuration procedures of the EnCOVER VE™ Control Unit (VCU) in each floor. These should be performed only after planning the floor coverage and installation locations as described in the previous sections.
VCU Unit Installation and Configuration 4.1 EnCOVER VE™ Control Unit Installation as a Master VCU The EnCOVER VE™ control unit can be installed as a Master VCU and control up to 12 Slave VCUs. The Master VCU is installed in the main IDF/telco closet. This section describes the Master VCU installation procedure. 1. Install the Master VCU in the main IDF/Telco closet.
VCU Unit Installation and Configuration 4.2 Auxiliary Connections The auxiliary connections are performed through the Master VCU rear panel Alarms port. See following figure. Alarms port for auxiliary connections 4.2.1 Auxiliary Input Connections This Auxiliary connector can be used to monitor up to eight auxiliary connections such as firealarm, air-conditioning alarm, open-door alarm, etc. The connections are normally open.
VCU Unit Installation and Configuration 4.3 EnCOVER VE™ Control Unit Installation as a Slave VCU 1. Install the EnCOVER VE™ Slave Control Unit (VCU) in the IDF/Telco closet corresponding to the floor to be covered. The Slave VCU can be installed in the rack or on the wall using the optional wall mount bracket in the IDF closet. 2. Connect the Slave VCU VAP ports to the patch-panel that feeds the existing structured CAT5e/6 cabling system. 3.
VCU Unit Installation and Configuration 6. Apply power to the Slave VCUs and note that the VCU PWR LED is lit and that the VAP Status LEDs complete initialization and show a solid light. VAP Status LEDs PWR LED RF Source LEDs (one per service) 4.3.1 Connections of VAP Ethernet Cables For VAPs installed on currently ACTIVE Ethernet ports - shift the relevant Ethernet LAN connections as follows.
VCU Unit Installation and Configuration For VAPs installed on currently INACTIVE Ethernet ports – connect as follows. 4.4 Provisioning the EnCOVER VE™ Control Unit This chapter describes how to set the basic parameters required for operation and remote management of the Master VCU using the Web GUI.
VCU Unit Installation and Configuration The Local Area Connections Properties dialog appears with the General tab displayed by default. 4. In the Items list, select “Internet Protocol (TCP*IP)” and click the Properties button. 5. The “Internet Protocol (TCP/IP) Properties” dialog appears. NOTE: The Master VCU is supplied with the default IP address 192.168.1.1. • In order to communicate with the unit, it is necessary to assign your computer a Static IP address in the same subnet: 192.168.1.2 to 192.168.
VCU Unit Installation and Configuration 4.4.2 Provisioning the Master VCU Unit 1. Perform a local connection to the Master VCU unit by connecting the Master VCU front panel Management port and a laptop computer. 2. Open a web browser and type the Master VCU IP address in the address bar (default: 192.168.1.1). The Login window appears. 3. Type the User Name “Field Engineer” and enter the Password “eng”.
VCU Unit Installation and Configuration The EnCOVER VE™ Web GUI appears. Main menu bar Network Topology tree Sub-tabs that correspond to each main tab 4. On the invoked application window, choose the Management tab in the main menu bar and click the IP Settings tab on the side bar.
VCU Unit Installation and Configuration 5. Click the Modify button to define the STATIC IP Address according to existing LAN. Note: After the initial IP configuration, the Master VCU can be accessed remotely via Ethernet. • Set the following available parameters: • DHCP - Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (N/A) • IP address - Static IP address Default definitions: • • The Default IP Address : 192.168.1.1 • The Default Subnet Mask: 255.255.0.0 • The Default Gateway: 192.168.254.254 Click OK.
VCU Unit Installation and Configuration 8. The Master VCU appears in the Network Topology Tree as Master VCU. Select the Master VCU by clicking on it. Config Tab Master VCU 9. Before configuring the Master VCU it is recommended to give the unit an indicative name. To assign the Master VCU an indicative name: • Select the Module Info Tab and click the Modify button.
VCU Unit Installation and Configuration • Type the unit name (up to 20 alpha-numeric characters) in the Controller Name dialog and click OK. 10. Set the RF parameters for each connected service (up to two). Each service (Service1/Service2) is configured through its’ corresponding tab. To configure the service RF parameters: • • Select the Service tab (Service1/Service2) of the service to be configured.
VCU Unit Installation and Configuration Note: The Service DL CF dialog displays the relevant range for each service. • Click OK. • Define Max expected power of BTS (0-33dBm) • Define UL attenuation level for each service (0-25dB) Notes: 1. Max expected Pin and Service CF parameters are service dependent and can be obtained from your service provider. 2. The remaining parameters are predefined to their default values.
VCU Unit Installation and Configuration 11. To verify proper operation of the system, refer to the Alarms sub-tab (in the Config tab). See following figure. 12. Verify that all the alarms are GREEN. Refer to the alarm descriptions in the table following the figure below. Alarm Service 1 DL RF Pwr Low Description Service 1 DL RF Pwr High RED - the input power exceeds the maximum limit and cannot be attenuated to the required limit. Traffic is disconnected.
VCU Unit Installation and Configuration Note: To briefly check the VCU status, click on the VCU name in the Topology Tree. The VCU icon will appear, showing the LEDs status. Master VCU icon 4.4.3 Provisioning the Slave VCUs Note: The Slave VCUs management and configuration is performed through a remote connection to the Master VCU, via the web management. Before provisioning the Slave VCUs verify that the Master VCU unit, to which it is connected, has been provisioned (see section 4.4.1).
VCU Unit Installation and Configuration To assign a name to a Slave VCU: 1. Connect to the Master VCU unit (either locally as explained in section 4.4.1 or remotely) and select the Slave VCU to be provisioned from the Network Topology Tree. Selected Slave VCU- Each VCU has a default name of the form “VCUPx-name”, where: • Px - Master VCU port number to which the Slave VCU is connected • Name - user-defined name 2.
EnCOVER VE™ Access Pod (VAP) Installation and Commissioning 5 EnCOVER VE™ Access Pod (VAP) Installation and Commissioning This section provides a description of the EnCOVER VE™ Access Pods (VAPs) installation, verification and monitoring procedures. 5.1 VAP Installation The VAPs installation procedure consists of connecting each VAP to the Ethernet jack in the appropriate location to provide optimal coverage (see sections 3.4 and 5.1.2). 5.1.
EnCOVER VE™ Access Pod (VAP) Installation and Commissioning 5.1.2 VAP Locations and Mounting It is recommended to place the VAPs on top of desks, cube walls, filing cabinets or higher on walls so as to maximize the provided coverage per VAP. Note: Mounting a VAP beneath a desk or other low location (i.e office corner) decreases the effective coverage of the VAP and therefore a higher number of VAPs would be required to cover the same area. When installing the VAPs, consider the following: 5.1.2.
EnCOVER VE™ Access Pod (VAP) Installation and Commissioning 5.1.2.
EnCOVER VE™ Access Pod (VAP) Installation and Commissioning Each VAP has a default name of the form VAP Px-name where: • Px – Number of Slave VCU port to which the VAP is connected • name - User-defined name 3. In the Network Topology Tree, under the Control Unit, verify that a GREEN (or RED) circle is displayed for each connected VAP. Connected VAP • If a VAP is not green, select the VAP from the network topology tree then select the Config tab. Refer to the Alarms tab work area.
EnCOVER VE™ Access Pod (VAP) Installation and Commissioning 5. Assign each VAP a name as follows: • Click the Modify button. • Click OK. 6. When required to transmit the RF signal through a connected external antenna (if VAP model supports this option): • Refer to the Service 1 and/or Service 2 tabs • Enable the External Antenna option Note: If the external antenna option is not enabled, the signal is transmitted via the integrated internal antenna, by default. 7.
Navigating the Management Application 6 Navigating the Management Application This section describes the EnCOVER VE™ Web GUI management application and each of the tabs. The EnCOVER VE™ Web management application is accessed through any standard web browser connected to the Master VCU via a network within the same subnet as the Master VCU or a different subnet which is routable. 6.1 Opening a Session and Authentication Levels After the initial configuration (as explained in 4.4.
Navigating the Management Application 6.2 Main Window The Web GUI Main window appears after login.
Navigating the Management Application 6.3 Configuration Tab The Configuration tab provides the general information and service RF parameters for configuration of the units appearing in the Network Topology tree. The Configuration window is accessed by clicking on the Config tab in the main menu bar. The information and parameters displayed in the Configuration sub-tabs vary depending on whether a VCU or VAP is selected in the topology tree. 6.3.
Navigating the Management Application The Configuration tab is divided in to three main areas: 6.3.
Navigating the Management Application 6.3.3 Configuration Display Area When selecting an element (Master VCU/Slave VCU or VAP) in the network topology tree an icon representing the unit is displayed in the Configuration tab display area Icon display area The following table provides a description of the LEDs displayed for the VCU and VAP icons and that reflect the actual unit LEDs. Unit Master VCU/Slave VCU VAP LED RF IF Port Pwr Port Act Status LEDs No.
Navigating the Management Application 6.3.4 Alarms Tab The alarms displayed in the Alarms tab corresponds to the system element selected in the topology tree and vary depending on whether a VCU or VAP is selected. 6.3.4.1 VCU Alarms Tab When a VCU element is selected in the topology tree, the Alarm tab displays the main alarms in the unit.
Navigating the Management Application 6.3.4.2 VAP Alarms Tab When a VAP element is selected in the topology tree, the Alarm tab displays the main alarms in the unit. To access Alarms Tab of VAP In the Topology Tree, click the VAP, click the Config(uration) tab in the menu bar located at the top of the window and click the VAP Alarms sub tab. If one or more alarms occur, the corresponding Status indicator is illuminated in RED.
Navigating the Management Application 6.3.5 Module Info The Module Info tab displays the selected elements’ (VCU or VAP) general information (such as, unit name and SW versions. The displayed information corresponds to the selected element (VCU or VAP). To access the Module Info tab Select the system element from the network topology tree and click on the Module Info subtab.
Navigating the Management Application 6.3.6 Service Tabs (RF Parameters) The Service 1 and Service 2 tabs provide the configurable RF parameters corresponding to the element selected in the network topology tree (VCU/VAP). Up to two service RF tabs are displayed – one for each active service. The displayed RF parameters are similar for both service tabs. 6.3.6.1 Master VCU/Slave VCU Service RF Tab Note: The RF parameters are not displayed for control units functioning as slaves to Master VCU units.
Navigating the Management Application The following table provides a description of the RF parameters displayed in the Service RF tabs. Parameter Type DL CF* UL CF Max Exp Pin* Pin UL System Gain Service Control Description Set (read only) according to unit type (e.g. EGSM / UMTS) DL Center frequency (from BTS). User defined, according to connected service (EGSM / UMTS / CELL / PCS / DCS). UL center frequency (from BTS) – corresponding to defined DL Center Frequency.
Navigating the Management Application The following table provides a description of the RF parameters displayed in the Service RF tabs. Parameter Type Service Control DL Pout Level UL Pout Level Antenna Description Set according to unit type (e.g. EGSM /UMTS) Used to Disable (Off) or Enable (On) the service for the specific VAP Low – measured power is below required level Level 0 - measured power is at required level Level 1 – measured power is (approx.
Troubleshooting 7 Troubleshooting 7.1 Finding a Specific VAP in the Building It is recommended to assign each VAP an identifiable name corresponding to its physical location as explained in section 5.3. If a name was not configured, or for some other reason a specific VAP cannot be physically located, physically identify the VAP by following the instructions given in the following example. To locate a VAP 1.
Troubleshooting 3. Set Identify to ON. The Activity LED (Blue) on the corresponding Access Pod will start blinking fast. (You will need to physically locate the VAP to see the blinking LED). Blue LED (Activity) Green LED (PWR) 4. Locate the Access Pod. 5. Once found – it is advisable to assign it an identifiable name via the Access Pod Module Info tab as described in section 5.3 (e.g. floor 3, conf. room) and set the Identify field to Off again.
Appendix A - Traps This section lists the Encover VE™ Dual - Band Controller and Access Pod traps EnCOVER VE™ Control Unit Traps No Trap Name Trap Description 1 HeartBeat System heart beat.
