Specifications

10 MDS Orbit MCR-4G Technical Manual MDS 05-6628A01, Rev. A
Figure 8. Attachment (Left) and Removal of unit from DIN Rail
(Unit shown is for bracket example only, and is not an MCR Unit.)
2.4.4 Antenna Planning & Installation
Consideration must be taken to select appropriate antennas for optimal RF performance. This section
reviews the key factors involved in selecting and installing antennas for the MCR-4G. Only approved
antennas may be used on the unit's RF output connectors, as listed in Table 5. The use of non-approved
antennas may result in a violation of FCC rules, and subject the user to FCC enforcement action.
Antenna Type and Orientation
It is important to use antennas designed to operate in the applicable cellular coverage bands with a Return
Loss of 10 dB or better. Placement of the antennas also plays a key role in the coverage of the system. While
the antennas can be placed directly on the face of the unit in some short range installations, the best perfor-
mance is obtained when mounting antennas remotely using low loss coaxial cable. Antennas mounted in
close proximity to each other can couple signals between them and desensitize the RF module.
When placing the indoor SMA style “paddle” antennas on the face of the unit, position them with a 90
degree angle of separation to improve the isolation. A “V” or an “L” configuration is a common approach
to use with the Main channel typically mounted for vertical polarization. The multipath nature of Cellular
systems means that polarization for indoor use is not normally a critical factor. Isolation between the
antennas is more important.
Note that with any installation, there needs to be a minimum 20 cm spacing between the Wi-Fi antenna and
any other radio antenna to avoid co-location difficulties.
Indoor use cases:
Table 5. Approved Antenna Types
Antenna Application GE MDS Part Number
WiFi (direct connect), RP SMA
2.4-2.5GHz ANTENNA, 3.2dBi GAIN
97-4278A34
WiFi (external mount)
Omni Ant N M Term 2400-2500, 2 dBi
97-4278A48
Cell (direct connect)
960/2170/2700MHz
97-2485A04
Cell (external mount, ground plane)
960/2170/2700MHz, NEEDS GND
97-2485A05
WiFi (Magnetic Mount)
5ft Cable RP SMA Plug
97-4278A78