User's Manual

20 MDS TransNET I&O Guide MDS 05-2708A01, Rev. D
• Remote radio(s) transmitting data (TXD) and receiving data (RXD) with
Master station
5.2 Performance Optimization
After the basic operation of the radio has been checked, you may wish to opti-
mize its performance using some of the suggestions given here. The effective-
ness of these techniques will vary with the design of your system and the
format of the data being sent.
Complete instructions for using the commands referenced in this manual are
provided in “RADIO PROGRAMMING” on Page 22.
Antenna Aiming
For optimum performance, directional antennas must be accurately aimed in
the direction of desired transmission. The easiest way to do this is to point the
antenna in the approximate direction, then use the Remote radio’s RSSI
command (Received Signal Strength Indicator) to further refine the heading
for maximum received signal strength.
In an MAS system, RSSI readings are only meaningful when initiated from a
Remote station. This is because the Master station typically receives signals
from several Remote sites, and the RSSI would be continually changing as
the Master receives from each Remote in turn. Adjust the antenna for the
highest (most positive) value to insure the greatest communication reliability.
Table 6. LED indicator descriptions
Name Description
PWR
• Continuous—Power is applied to the radio; no problems detected
• Flashing (5 times-per-second)—Fault indication
See “TROUBLESHOOTING” on Page 45
• Off—Radio is unpowered or in Sleep mode
See also, “LED [ON, OFF]” on Page 36
SYNC Continuous—Radio is receiving/sending synchronization frames
On within 10 seconds of power-up under normal conditions
TXD Transmit data activity on the DB-9 DATA interface connector
Payload data to connected device
RXD Receive data activity on the DB-9 DATA interface connector.
Payload data from the connected device
PWR SYNC TXD RXD