Installation
Last updated
Last updated
MONT-KIT-85 | MONT-KIT-85S is supplied with all models by default except E5-ST18 and E6-ST18. It allows to make reliable and easy installation of the unit with two-axis adjustment. Assemble the Mounting kit according to the scheme below. The nut must be tightened until the spring washer clicks, without over-tightening.
Mounting is carried out on a pole with a diameter 30-85 mm. There are also possible options for mounting on a wall or pole with a diameter more than 85 mm.
NOTE
Clamps and other optional fasteners are not included in the Mounting kit MONT-KIT-85.
High precision mounting kit MONT-KIT-85P allows to make reliable and easy installation and enables extremely accurate adjustment on azimuth and elevation for optimal wireless link performance. Compatible for Astra Quanta and Astra Evolution, families units. Especially suitable for installing high-gain antenna models that have a narrow beam.
Step 1: Insert and tighten the Assembled kit on the back side of the device using bolts M6x14, washers flat 6 and washers spring 6.
Step 2: Tighten the Assembled kit and Bracer to the pole using bolt M8, washer flat 8 and washer spring 8.
Bolt M8x50 - used for installation on a pole with Ø 30 ... Ø 55 mm.
Bolt M8x80 - used for installation on a pole with Ø 55 ... Ø 85 mm.
Step 3: Perform required antenna alignment using adjustment knobs and then tighten nuts M8.
NOTE
M8 nuts are pre-tightened at the manufacturing facility in a position that allows the device to be adjusted using the adjustment knobs and ensures that the wireless device does not shift during the final nuts tighten.
If further adjustment is required, weaken the nuts M8 on about 15 degrees. Do not adjust the knobs without weaken the nuts first.
Mounting is carried out on a pole with a diameter 30 ... 85 mm. There are also possible options for mounting on a wall or pole with a diameter more than 85 mm.
NOTE
Clamps and other optional fasteners are not included in the mounting kit MONT-KIT-85P.
E5-ST18 and E6-ST18 models installation is performed using bracer and threaded rod M6x90 that is supplied by default. Install the device according to the scheme below. The nut must be tightened until the spring washer clicks, without over-tightening.
Required components are listed below.
Unshielded RJ-45 connector.
Shielded RJ-45 connector.
FTP Cat5e cable.
Cable gland:
Cable gland nut.
Split sealing grommet (with inner diameter 7 mm).
Cable gland threaded coupling.
Crimping tool for RJ-45 connector.
NOTE
The outside diameter value of the FTP Cat5e cable should not exceed 7 mm.
Cable gland can be assembled on pre-crimped cable.
In order to ensure that the device case remains sealed under any environmental conditions follow the assemble procedure:
Step 1: Crimp the standard RJ-45 connector onto the cable using crimping tool. Pin-out scheme: T568B wiring standard.
CAUTION
Make sure that the RJ-45 connector is well-crimped. A loose connector can damage the device. Please note that such damage is not covered by the warranty.
Do not use the shielded RJ-45 connector on this end of the cable as it should be attached on the power supply unit end.
Step 2: Assemble cable gland nut, the split sealing grommet and the cable gland threaded coupling onto the pre-terminated cable as shown on the figure below.
Step 3: Insert the split sealing grommet into the cable gland threaded coupling.
Step 4: Insert the RJ-45 connector into the device socket until you hear a click.
Step 5: Screw the cable gland threaded coupling into the port and tighten it. Do not apply excessive force.
Step 6: Tighten the cable gland nut (4). Do not apply excessive force.
Required components are listed below.
Optical cable.
Optical connector.
SFP module.
Cable gland:
Cable gland nut.
Split sealing grommet (with inner diameter 3.2 mm).
Cable gland threaded coupling.
Step 1: Put the cable gland nut, the split sealing grommet and cable gland threaded coupling onto the optical cable as shown on the figure below.
Step 2: Insert the split sealing grommet into the cable gland threaded coupling.
Step 3: Set the SFP module into the socket until you hear a click.
Step 4: Insert the optical connector into the SFP module.
Step 5: Screw the cable gland threaded coupling into the port and tighten it.
Step 6: Tighten the cable gland nut. Do not apply excessive force.
NOTE
In order to disassemble SFP, please disconnect the optical cable, pull the clip of the SFP module and withdraw the SFP module from the slot.
SFP module is not included into the packing list. Is possible to use an SFP (Small Form-factor Pluggable) transceiver of any manufacturer that meets the MSA (MultiSource Agreement) standard.
Reqiered tools
Screwdriwer set.
Pliers / pipe wrench.
Wrench set.
Additional equipment
GPS receiver.
High magnification binoculars.
CAUTION
Before mounting the equipment in an outdoor environment, please make sure that:
You acknowledge the regulations imposed by the Regulatory Authority for Communications in your country for the radio spectrum to be used.
You chose known locations for the installation of the links; although Astra Wireless devices can also operate in Near-LoS or Non-LoS conditions, to achieve the best performance, it's highly recommended to install the link in locations where Clear-Line-of-Site and clear channels are available.
You performed link planning using the planning tool to determine the link path profiles, radio equipment placement requirements, etc.
You met requirements described in the section "Planning considerations" - > "Wireless device placement".
In case of device with external antenna, to mount and connect an external antenna to Evolution, proceed as follows:
Mount the antenna(s) according to manufacturer’s instructions;
Connect the ODU V and H N-type interfaces to the antenna(s) with RF coaxial cables and with appropriate connectors. Use cables not longer than 3 m (9.8ft). Tighten the N-type connectors to a torque setting of 1.7 Nm (1.3 lb ft);
Form drip loops near the cable ends at the ODU’s side so that water doesn’t creep towards the ODU connectors;
Weatherproof the N-type connectors (when antenna alignment is complete) using PVC tape and self-amalgamating rubber tape;
Weatherproof the antenna connectors in the same way (unless the antenna manufacturer specifies a different method);
Fix the antenna cables to the supporting structure using site approved methods. Ensure that no undue strain is placed on the ODU or antenna connectors. Ensure that the cables do not flap in the wind, as flapping cables are prone to damage and induce unwanted vibrations in the supporting structure.
CAUTION
In order to prevent device damage make sure that antenna is connected to both N-type connectors with serviceable RF cables before switching on.
Install ODU connector facing down using the mounting kit. Do not tighten the fasteners to the end until the alignment is completed.
Connect the Cat5e FTP cable with the cable gland to ODU.
Perform ODU grounding.
Lay the Cat5e FTP cable from ODU to the power supply.
Connect the Cat5e FTP cable with a shielded connector covered by a cap to the "OUT" port of the power supply, having previously touched the power supply connector case with FTP cable connector case.
Perform the power supply grounding.
Connect the laptop using Cat5e FTP cable to the power supply "IN" port.
Connect the power cord to the power supply and then to the power circuit.
CAUTION
The power supply must not operate near a direct heat source, near water or in an environment with high humidity. The cables must be connected in such a way to prevent water flow to the power supply connectors.
Use mains supply cords that adhere to safety regulations of the country where the equipment is getting deployed.
Make sure a small loop (at least 10 cable diameters) is provided before the Cat5e FTP cable enter into the building.
CAUTION
Please note that the pressure equalization system in Astra Wireless devices is performed via gas exchange through a cable gland and Ethernet cable jacket with a dry room where the power supply is installed. In order to avoid ODU failure due to moisture entering the device, for example, during the pressure drop during the rain, the cable gland assembly requirements should be met and there are should be no cracks in the Ethernet cable jacket.
In addition, you should avoid the Ethernet cable bending near the ODU and pinching with clamps, that can bring to the pressure equalization system fault between the internal volume of the sealed ODU and the external environment during a sudden air temperature change. This may lead to the leakage and device failures.
Any external antenna of the same type and with a maximum gain not greater than those listed below can be used with the Evolution E5-BSE in the countries abiding by the FCC rules.
Directivity
Type
Manufacturer
Reference
Stated Gain
Sectorized
Flat-panel, dual orthogonal polarization array
MTI Wireless Edge Ltd.
MT-464047/SVH
16 dBi
If other antenna types than above with Gain +16 dBi or LESS are used with this device these antenna types must be approved by FCC with C2PC application by device manufacturer.
External antenna must be professionally installed pursuant to the section 15.203 of the FCC Rules.
Any external antenna of the same type and with a maximum gain not greater than those listed below can be used with the Evolution E5-STE, E6-STE in the countries abiding by the FCC rules.
Directivity
Type
Manufacturer
Reference
Stated Gain
Sectorized
Flat-panel, dual orthogonal polarization array
MARS Antennas &RF Systems Ltd.
MA-WC56-DP17
18 dBi
If other antenna types than above with Gain +18 dBi or LESS are used with this device these antenna types must be approved by FCC with C2PC application by device manufacturer.
External antenna must be professionally installed pursuant to the section 15.203 of the FCC Rules.
This section describes factors to be considered when planning the proposed link end sites, including grounding, lightning protection and equipment location for the wireless device, power supply, AUX-ODU-LPU-L and AUX-ODU-LPU-G unit (if installed).
CAUTION
Electro-magnetic discharge (lightning) damage is not covered under warranty. The recommendations in this document, when followed correctly, give the user the best protection from the harmful effects of EMD. However 100% protection is neither implied nor possible.
The wireless device should be placed on the pole at a height that is at least 1 meter below the top of the pole. In this case, there is a significant probability that the lightning strikes the pole and not the wireless device. The pole should be properly grounded: connected to the building lightning protection circuit according to your local regulations.
All equipment must be connected at stabilized and surge protected power sources which must be properly grounded.
The end of the FTP service cable that is connected to the power supply should be assembled with a shielded RJ-45 connector. The other end of the FTP service cable (connected to the wireless device) should be assembled with unshielded (standard) RJ-45 connector.
The power supply is grounded via a three-conductor power cord and a grounded socket.
AUX-ODU-LPU-L, AUX-ODU-LPU-G and wireless device grounding is performed using grounding bolt.
Antenna pole and wireless device should be connected to the common ground ring. Grounding cables should be no less than 10AWG thick and must use corrosion-resistant connectors. Grounding bolt is included in the supply list, M6x10 for BS devices, M5x10 for ST devices.
AUX-ODU-LPU-L is an optional accessory which may be used to serve as a line protection unit for the ODU and for the indoor network equipment connected to the Ethernet port of the IDU. AUX-ODU-LPU-L should be properly assembled, mounted and grounded.
General recommendations for installations of lightning protection units:
Install the lightning protection unit on both ends of the cable to protect both the outdoor and the indoor unit. The purpose of the LPU at the top is to protect the ODU from a surge of lightning strike which can hit the long FTP cable run along the height of the pole or on the roof of the building. The purpose of the LPU at the bottom is to protect the IDU and customer equipment.
Use the lightning protection unit to protect all circuits for signal transmission and power supply (video, audio, management signals, Ethernet, etc.)
Regularly (especially before the periods with high thunderstorm activity) check the integrity of lightning protection units, grounding elements and bonding conductors.
The ports of the AUX-ODU-LPU-L device are symmetrical, i.e. the correspondence of ports position to the external unit and the power supply does not matter.
Make sure to install the two LPU devices as shown in the scheme below.
CAUTION
Please note grounding cables should not be connected to the mast. All devices must use separate grounding cable that should be connected to the grounding circuit. The best scenario is when grounding cables are lined parallel to the Ethernet cable.
AUX-ODU-LPU-L is installed on a mast, using clamp. Attach the grounding cable (min cross-section 2.5 mm2) to the case, using grounding bolt. An M6x10 grounding bolt is included in the supply list.
During AUX-ODU-LPU-L mounting it is necessary to provide a small loop of the FTP cable that should be below the cable gland. This ensures that water is not constantly channeled towards the connector. It will also serve as a cable compensation for the cable linear expansion as the temperature difference result.
CAUTION
Missing or bad grounding may leave the unit vulnerable to lightning damage.
In order to ensure that the cable gland remains sealed under any environmental conditions, please, follow the assembly sequence according to the procedure below:
Step 1: Insert the sealing insert into the clamping claw.
Step 2: Assemble the cable gland by putting the thread-lock sealing nut, clamping claw with sealing insert and body onto the cable as shown on the figure.
Step 3: Insert the clamping claw with sealing insert into the body as shown on the figure.
Step 4: Crimp the standard RJ-45 connector onto the cable using crimping tool. Pin-out scheme: T568B wiring standards.
CAUTION
Make sure that the RJ-45 connector is well-crimped. A loose connector can damage the device. Please note that such damage is not covered by the warranty.
Step 5: Insert the RJ-45 connector into the corresponding socket until you hear a click.
Step 6: Screw the cable gland body into the port and tighten it. Do not apply excessive force.
Step 7: Tighten the thread-lock sealing nut. Do not apply excessive force.
It is recommended to have two teams prepared for alignment procedure, each team with at least two installers: one should notisy the signal values and communicate with the remote side, the other should make the adjustments with the device. After the initial approximate alignment (link up), the antenna with the lowest gain should be locked into position.
Both teams should use the Antenna Alignment Tool in the Device Status section of the web GUI.
The team at the antenna which has the highest gain will click on the "Start Test" button and start to change the azimuth slowly while watching the signal indicators
As soon as the best signal has been found (Input Signal stripes must be located in the black area, closer to its center), the antenna must be locked into that position
The same action will be performed for the elevation, and the antenna must be locked into the final position where both elevation and azimuth provide the best signal, according to the indicators provided by the antenna alignment tool:
EVM: higher than 21 in absolute value.
Signal level to interference and noise: higher than 28 dB.
Retries: lower than 5 %.
CAUTION
No contact should be made with the antennas during signal reading because the human body can affect the radiation pattern of the antenna and signal readings.
The main parameters displayed in the alignment tool:
RSSI - indicates the power level of the received radio signal, optimal parameter value -60 ... -40 dBm.
CINR - input signal level to noise + interference indicator, >=28 dB.
Crosstalk - indicates how much vertically and horizontally polarized signals influence each other, >20 dB in absolute value.
Error Vector Magnitude (EVM) - indicator of the measured input signal quality (it should be as high as possible in absolute value, the recommended level is not less than 21 dB in absolute value. Some old firmware had EVM value positive, but most the firmware has negative value, so for the troubleshooting, evaluate the absolute EVM value).
Tx bitrate - displays the current bitrate for the remote and local units (measured in Kbps).
As soon as the antennas have been precisely alignment, set the "auto" option for Tx power and bitrate at both units and select values in accordance with the EIRP limitations.
Depending on the values for SNR, RSSI, retries and current bitrate, change the following parameters:
Decrease/increase the Tx power level (keeping the auto option checked) to have the SNR at around 25 dB and the RSSI at around -55 dBm.
Decrease the bandwidth to lower the noise and to increase the SNR to above 20 dB.
Wireless link statistics
Let's check the link parameters. Go to the Device Status section and in the Link Statistics, check the following parameters:
Retries Rx/Tx: maximum 5 %.
EVM Rx/Tx: not less than 21 dB in absolute value.
SNR Rx/Tx: not less than 27 dB.
If these conditions are met and the maximum bitrate is reached, the wireless connection quality is good. Otherwise, use the diagnostic tools described in the Device Status article.
Using the azimuth and elevation values computed by the link planning tool roughly position the antenna (in each location) to detect the opposite system signal. Directly before installing the devices we recommend to set up the maximum output power value. If the link cannot be established, try to switch the bitrate to the minimum value and narrowing the channel width. Assess the link establishment and its quality using the LED indicator on the device case. LED indication are detaily described in the section. For more accurate alignment, use the alignment tool built into the device web interface.
