User's Manual

Table Of Contents
Exalt Installation and Management Guide
EX-i Series (TDD) Digital Microwave Radios
12 206501-019
2016-05-24
Radio Synchronization
The radio synchronization feature improves the performance of Exalt radios operating in the same
frequency band and that are collocated (such as in repeater and hub configurations). Radio
synchronization ties radio systems together to operate off of a common clock system, ensuring that all
radios simultaneously transmit and receive, and thus eliminating near-field interference issues and
related radio system coupling.
Synchronization Modes
Synchronization can be accomplished using either an internal or external source. In either case, one
radio in the network must be defined as the primary sync source (A) radio.
A Global Positioning System (GPS) kit from Exalt is required to implement external source
synchronization. GPS synchronization is not available on all radio models. Contact your Exalt
representative for details.
Synchronization implementation only requires one synchronization source for any interconnected
network. The system also implements a redundancy configuration to maintain a majority of the
synchronization functions in case of primary radio failure.
For internal synchronization, the primary radio is designated SYNC SOURCE. This radio provides the
master timing for all interconnected radios. SYNC SOURCE radios and collocated radios must be
configured as Radio A.
Collocated radios must be in SYNC RECIPIENT mode; they receive sync signaling from the SYNC
SOURCE, either directly or daisy-chained with other collocated radios. Alternatively, the radio(s) can
be placed in AUTO SYNC mode. AUTO SYNC synchronizes the radios to any source provided on the
SYNC IN port. However, if an appropriate synchronization signal is unavailable, the radio becomes
the SYNC SOURCE for all connected radios.
Internal Synchronization
Figure 4 illustrates the basic interconnectivity of a radio system using internal synchronization. In this
scenario, there are two radios collocated at one site.
Figure 4 Basic radio interconnectivity using internal synchronization
In Figure 5, there are three collocated radios. In this configuration it may be desirable to make one
radio a secondary sync source using AUTO SYNC. This provides redundancy if the primary sync
source radio (A) loses power or experiences any other failure.
Note: The synchronization function is not currently available on all Exalt radio models. A
firmware upgrade may be required for models without sync if sync is desired. Contact your
Exalt representative for details.