User's Manual

Exalt Installation and Management Guide
EX-i Series GigE (FDD) Digital Microwave Radios
202675-008 27
2016-06-01
The opposite end of this primary transmission line typically terminates at the building or enclosure
egress point. If coaxial transmission line is used, this is where to locate the RF lightning arrestor.
Ensure that a proper termination to the connector-type of the lightning arrestor is made at this location.
A drip loop may be required and proper securing hardware and grounding must be accommodated. If
waveguide is used at the entry point, there is no need for lightning suppression. But install proper
grounding according to the manufacturer's instructions.
As soon as practical, weatherproof the connected ends of the transmission line to the antenna and
lightning arrestor. This process should be delayed as long as possible to ensure that all systems are
working properly before applying the weatherproofing. Once weatherproofing is applied, it may have
to be removed for testing or installation modification. With this in mind, if the installation is occurring
during inclement weather, take extra care at all times to ensure that no moisture enters any connector at
any time. If moisture is suspected to have compromised the antenna or transmission line, it may render
those devices useless without any means for remedy except for full replacement.
Indoor Mounting
On rare occasions the antenna can be mounted indoors behind a window. In these cases, there would
not be a need for drip loops or an RF lightning arrestor. Use a very short transmission line connected
directly between the antenna and the radio mounted nearby. The weatherproofing process can also be
omitted.
RF Lightning Arrestor
RF lightning arrestors are needed for any coaxial connection that traverses from outdoors to indoors.
They provide a direct path to ground for lightning strikes that may couple to or directly hit the outdoor
transmission system or antenna structure. The RF lightning arrestor prevents any associated voltage
and current from entering the building or enclosure, where it might harm the radio equipment, other
equipment, or humans.
The following lightning arrestor is an appropriate choice for this application:
• Polyphaser WSXM
Mount and ground the RF lightning arrestor in accordance to the manufacturer’s recommendations.
Place it as close as possible to the egress point where the next piece of transmission line enters the
building or enclosure. Minimize the distance to the egress to lessen the opportunity for lightning to
couple to or strike the unprotected section of transmission line (if any). Where possible, use a bulkhead
connector to eliminate any opportunity of this risk. Keep cable lengths behind the arrestor and into the
egress substantially short (less than 3'/1m) as a safe practice. Consult a qualified electrician or installer
in all cases of grounding and lightning arrestor implementation.
Transmission Line from Egress to Radio
A single transmission line section from the egress to the radio RF connection is always desired.
Minimize the number of connectors and adapters. For indoor runs, a cable ladder or tray may be
needed to properly secure the transmission line. In some cases, a short flexible jumper allows ease of
connection to the radio’s RF connector. An installation with space around the radio to accommodate a
gentle bend radius of the transmission line is also good for a direct connection. In all cases, ensure that
the transmission line is not a pulling force of the RF connector on the radio. Transmission lines can be
very stiff and can damage the connector if not dressed properly. Also, follow the transmission line
manufacturer’s instructions for the proper use of cable securing devices.
For waveguide installations, the waveguide typically runs horizontally from the egress across a cable
ladder or tray, and then vertically down to the radio rack location. The waveguide should end as close