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SPECTRUM II Microwave Radio System

Local Maintenance Terminal


User Guide

Part Number 300-610007-001 Rev 1b, May 1998

SPECTRUM II Microwave Radio System


Local Maintenance Terminal User Guide
Part Number 300-610007-001

Rev 1b, May 1998

COPYRIGHT 1995-1998 by Digital Microwave Corporation


ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

No part of this publication may be reproduced, transmitted, transcribed, stored in a retrieval system, or translated into any language
or computer language, in any form or by an means, electronic, magnetic, optical, chemical, manual or otherwise, without the prior
written permission of Digital Microwave Corporation (DMC), 170 Rose Orchard Way, San Jose, California, 95134-1358, USA.

DMC Net is a registered trademark and SPECTRUM II Microwave Radio System is a trademark of Digital Microwave Corporation.
Microsoft, Windows, and MS-DOS are registered trademarks and Windows 95 and Windows NT are trademarks of Microsoft
Corporation.
ProComm Plus is a trademark of Quarterdeck.

Printed in the United States of America.


The accuracy and adequacy of this document are the responsibility of Digital Microwave Corporation. Please address any
comments or corrections to Digital Microwave Corporation.

Digital Microwave Corporation

Customer Service Hotline:

170 Rose Orchard Way


San Jose, CA, 95134-1358 USA

Within the United States:


1-800-DMC-WAVE (362-9283)

Telephone: 1 (408) 943-0777


Telex: 759597 DIGMIC
Fax: (408) 944-1801
Email: For LMT software support:
swsupport@dmcwave.com
For LMT general information:
info@dmcware.com

Outside the United States,


use the country code, then:
1-408-944-1720

SALES OFFICES

Asia / Pacific
Digital Microwave Corporation
24F Trafalgar Plaza
H.V. Dela Costa Street
Salcedo Village, Makati City
Metro Manila, Philippines
Telephone: +632-814-0274
+632-814-0275

Europe/Africa/
Middle East
DMC Germany
Airport Business Centre
Am Soldnermoos 17
D-85399 Hallbergmoos
Munich, Germany
Telephone: +49-811-801-194
Fax: +49-811-801-195

Fax: +632-814-0280

Digital Microwave Corporation


10 Ang Mo Kio Street 65
#03-13 Techpoint
Singapore 569059
Telephone: +65-484-7780
Fax: +65-484-7768

Digital Microwave Corporation


13 A Palam Marg
Vasant Vihar
New Delhi, India 110057
Telephone: +91-11-687-1562
+91-11-687-1563
+91-11-687-1565
Fax: +91-11-687-1564

Digital Microwave Corporation


DMC Service Center
5, Jiang Tailu
Dong Zhi Men Wai
Beijing, China 100016
Telephone: 86-10-437-5325
Fax: 86-10-437-5325

Digital Microwave Corporation


No. 1 Riverstone
Middlemarch Business Park
Siskin Drive
Coventry, England, CV3 4FJ
Outside the UK, use the country
code; then:
Telephone: +44-1203-863838
Fax: +44-1203-530126

DMC Moscow
6 Yauzkaya Str.
Moscow, Russia, 109240
Telephone: +7-095-915-7884
Fax: +7-095-915-0541

The Americas
DMC de Mexico
Rio Tiber #68, Piso 1
Colonia Guauhtemoc
Mexico, D. F. 06500
Telephone: +525-208-4277
+525-514-6660
+525-207-1983
Fax: +525-514-7097

DMC Colombia
Calle 98 Con Carrera 15
Edificio Manhattan Center 15-17, Piso 6
Oficina 605-606
Santa Fe de Bogota, Colombia
Telephone: +57-1-6213729
Fax: +57-1-6213749

DMC Telecom, Ontario


90 Claireport Crescent, Unit 8
Etobicoke, Ontario, M9W 6P4
Telephone: 1-416-675-2838
Fax: 1-416-675-9257
Voice Mail: 6636

Digital Microwave Corporation


4 Redwood Crescent
Peel Park Campus
East Kilbride, Scotland, G74 5PA
Telephone: +44-13552-42988
Fax: +44-13552-35767

Contents
About This Guide

ix

Overview...................................................................................................................................ix
What Is the Local Maintenance Terminal? ...............................................................................ix
Who This Guide Is For .............................................................................................................ix
How This Guide Is Structured ................................................................................................... x
Where to Find More Information..............................................................................................xi

Before You Begin

xiii

What You Need ......................................................................................................................xiii


Software Platforms ...................................................................................................xiii
Windows 3.1 Hardware Prerequisites.......................................................................xiii
Windows NT Hardware Prerequisites ...................................................................... xiv
Windows 95 Hardware Prerequisites........................................................................ xiv
LMT Software and Cable Kit Requirements ............................................................. xv

Chapter 1. Introducing the LMT

1-1

Configuring and Managing a SPECTRUM II System ............................................................1-1


More About How You Use the LMT......................................................................................1-2
The LMT and Microsoft Windows .........................................................................................1-3
SPECTRUM II Systems and the LMT Working Together .....................................................1-4
Microwave Links and LMT Communication............................................................1-4
Component Parts of a Radio Terminal .....................................................................1-5
Protected Versus Non-Protected Operation..............................................................1-6
SPECTRUM II Front Panel Configurations .............................................................1-7
Staying Informed with the LMT .............................................................................................1-9
What You Can See ..............................................................................................1-9
Starting the LMT ..................................................................................................................1-11
Understanding LMT Informational and Navigational Features ............................................1-12
About the Menu Bar ...............................................................................................1-12
About the System Conditions Bar...........................................................................1-13
About the Function Bar ..........................................................................................1-14
The LMT Windows Map........................................................................................1-15
Exiting the LMT ...................................................................................................................1-16
Using the LMT Online Help Facility ....................................................................................1-17
More About Getting Help.......................................................................................1-18
When Contextual Help Is Available ..................................................................1-18
Using Help Buttons ................................................................................................1-18
Choosing a Hyperlink .............................................................................................1-19

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Contents

Chapter 2. Establishing the LMT Environment

2-1

After You Have Installed the LMT ................................................................................... 2-1


Connecting to an IDU ............................................................................................................ 2-1
What Happens at LMT Startup .............................................................................................. 2-5
Radio Connection States .......................................................................................... 2-5
Retrying a Cable Connection ................................................................................................. 2-7
Defining Your Printing Environment ................................................................................... 2-10

Chapter 3. Changing a Radios Protection Settings

3-1

When Your SPECTRUM II Arrives from the Factory ...................................................... 3-1


Setting Up a Protected Radio ................................................................................................. 3-2
Setting Up a Non-Protected Radio ......................................................................................... 3-6

Chapter 4. Setting and Changing Radio Configurations

4-1

Using the LMT to Configure Radio Terminals ...................................................................... 4-1


Configuration Methods You Can Use .................................................................................... 4-2
Choosing a Configuration Method........................................................................... 4-3
More About Using Configuration Tab Dialog Boxes............................................................. 4-5
Setting and Changing Radio Parameters ................................................................................ 4-6
Completing the Link Tab Dialog Box...................................................................... 4-6
Completing the Relays Tab Dialog Box .................................................................. 4-8
Completing the Tributaries Tab Dialog Box.......................................................... 4-11
Completing the Protection Tab Dialog Box........................................................... 4-15
Completing the Other Tab Dialog Box .................................................................. 4-17
Sending Configurations to Link Radios ............................................................................... 4-20
Saving Radio Configurations to File .................................................................................... 4-21
Printing Radio Configurations.............................................................................................. 4-22
Deleting a Configuration File............................................................................................... 4-23

Chapter 5. Monitoring Your Link with LMT Reports

5-1

Getting a Link-Wide View ..................................................................................................... 5-1


More About LMT Report Categories..................................................................................... 5-3
Fault & Performance Management Reports ........................................................................... 5-4
The Faults Report .................................................................................................... 5-4
The RSSI Report...................................................................................................... 5-5
The Performance Report.......................................................................................... 5-6
The Relays Report ................................................................................................... 5-7
The External Report................................................................................................. 5-7
Current Radio Settings Reports.............................................................................................. 5-9
What New SPECTRUM II Part Numbers Tell You ................................................ 5-9
What Legacy SPECTRUM II Part Numbers Tell You .......................................... 5-10
The IDU Software Report...................................................................................... 5-11
The Boot & ODU Report....................................................................................... 5-11
The Tributaries Report........................................................................................... 5-12
The Line Options Report ....................................................................................... 5-13
The Other Report ................................................................................................... 5-13
Viewing LMT Online Reports ............................................................................................. 5-14
Logging Fault Data to File ................................................................................................... 5-15
Resetting Report Data .......................................................................................................... 5-16
Saving LMT Report Categories to File ................................................................................ 5-17
Printing LMT Reports .......................................................................................................... 5-18

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Local Maintenance Terminal User Guide

Deleting Log and Report Files ..............................................................................................5-19

Chapter 6. Running Loopback Tests

6-1

When You Need to Verify System Operation.........................................................................6-1


Using Internal Versus External Test Patterns .........................................................................6-2
Types of LMT Loopback Tests...............................................................................................6-2
Before You Start .....................................................................................................................6-6
How Loopback Tests Impact Traffic ........................................................................6-6
Testing a Protected System.......................................................................................6-7
Testing Tributaries....................................................................................................6-7
Running a Loopback Test .......................................................................................................6-8
Loopback Test Errors ...........................................................................................................6-10

Chapter 7. Locking a Protected Radio

7-1

Overriding Monitored Hot-Standby Switching .......................................................................7-1


Locking and Unlocking a Protected Radio .............................................................................7-2

Chapter 8. Upgrading SPECTRUM II Software

8-1

When You Get a New Version of Radio Software .............................................................8-1


About Active and Inactive IDU Software ...............................................................................8-2
For Protected Configurations Only .........................................................................................8-2
Starting From the Locking & Software Window ....................................................................8-3
Before You Begin.....................................................................................................8-3
Downloading IDU Software ...................................................................................................8-4
Activating IDU Software ........................................................................................................8-7
Rebooting an IDU...................................................................................................................8-8

Chapter 9. Creating and Maintaining Custom Frequencies

9-1

When Standard Channel Plans Dont Meet Your Needs.........................................................9-1


One File; Many Plans..............................................................................................................9-2
Defining Your Custom Specifications ....................................................................................9-3
How Many Channels Are Generated?.....................................................................................9-3
Channel Plan Names ...............................................................................................................9-4
Using the Custom Frequencies Window .................................................................................9-5
Creating a New Custom Channel Plan ....................................................................................9-6
Modifying a Custom Channel Plan .........................................................................................9-8
Deleting a Custom Channel Plan ............................................................................................9-9

Appendix A. Installing the LMT

A-1

About the Installation Process................................................................................................A-1


Using the Setup Utility Makes LMT Installation Easy ..........................................................A-1
On-Screen Graphics and What They Tell You ......................................................................A-2
Information Gauges .................................................................................................A-2
The Progress Indicator Bar......................................................................................A-3
Installing the Product .............................................................................................................A-4
What Gets Installed?..............................................................................................................A-8
Some Tips on Managing LMT Initialization Files.................................................................A-9
More About the CUSTFREQ.MDB File .................................................................A-9
When DMC Updates the STDFREQ.MDB File .............................................................A-10

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Contents

Appendix B. Radio Faults

B-1

An Aid to Understanding Radio Fault Alerts .........................................................................B-1


About Fault Type Codes ........................................................................................................B-1
Fault Descriptions ..................................................................................................................B-2

Appendix C. Troubleshooting Charts

C-1

More Help on Diagnosing and Resolving Radio Faults .........................................................C-1


Protected Systems: Low BER Condition................................................................................C-2
Protected Systems: High BER Condition...............................................................................C-3
Non-Protected Systems: Low BER Condition .......................................................................C-4
Non-Protected Systems: High BER Condition.......................................................................C-5
Protected/Non-Protected Systems: ODU Faults.....................................................................C-6
Protected/Non-Protected Systems: Input Faults .....................................................................C-7
Protected/Non-Protected Systems: Cable Faults ....................................................................C-9

Appendix D. Cable Pinout Diagrams

D-1

Top View of the RJ45-to-DB9 Cable Connection..................................................................D-1


Side Views of the RJ45 and DB9 Cable Connectors..............................................................D-1
Wiring Diagrams for the LMT Cable and Adaptor ................................................................D-2

Appendix E. Working with the LMT Navigator

E-1

Getting Around in Help.......................................................................................................... E-1


Activating the Navigator ........................................................................................................ E-2
More About Navigator Window Features .............................................................................. E-2
About the Menu Bar ................................................................................................ E-3
About the Toolbar.................................................................................................... E-4
About the Status Bar ................................................................................................ E-5
Expanding and Collapsing Help Topics................................................................................. E-5
Moving Sequentially Through Each Topic ............................................................................ E-6
Synchronizing the Navigator with Online Help...................................................................... E-6
Printing a Help Topic............................................................................................................. E-7
Changing Fonts in the Navigator Window ............................................................................. E-7

Glossary of Terms

G-1

Index

viii

I-1

Digital Microwave Corporation

About This Guide

Overview
SPECTRUM IIthe smart
radioprovides an advanced,
wireless communications
solution that is easy to install
and use.

This guide describes the features and uses of the Local Maintenance Terminal
(LMT). The LMT is a Windows-based application developed by Digital Microwave
Corporation to support its high-performance SPECTRUM II Microwave Radio
System. The SPECTRUM II product family consists of a series of compact,
software-configurable digital microwave radio terminals designed for high reliability
short-haul communications.

What Is the Local Maintenance Terminal?


You can use the LMT to
connect to a SPECTRUM II
radio terminal via cable or
remote dial-in.

The LMT is a sophisticated, easy-to-use software program that runs in Microsoft


Windows and lets you quickly and easily perform all SPECTRUM II radio setup and
management tasks from your personal computer (PC) or laptop.
In addition to using the LMT to configure SPECTRUM II microwave radio
terminals, other key LMT features are available for monitoring and troubleshooting
system status and performance, testing radio and link operation, temporarily
disabling monitored hot-standby switching on a protected radio for backup
maintenance, upgrading SPECTRUM II software, and creating custom frequencies.
You can also use the LMT as a portable maintenance tool for adjusting radio
frequencies and attenuation levels, enabling and disabling fault alerts on radio
tributaries, and more.

Who This Guide Is For


This guide is written for anyone who uses the LMT to configure, monitor, or
manage a SPECTRUM II Microwave Radio System.

300-610007-001

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ix

About This Guide

How This Guide Is Structured


This guide is organized into the following chapters and appendices:
Before You Begin identifies hardware and software prerequisites for using
LMT software.
Chapter 1. Introducing the LMT profiles key LMT features and describes
the typical components of a microwave radio terminal. This chapter also tells
you how to start and exit the LMT application, and introduces the LMT Online
Help Facilitya full-featured LMT reference aid.
Chapter 2. Establishing the LMT Environment identifies what you need
to do before you can start using the LMT to configure and manage
SPECTRUM II radios. Instructions are provided on how to attach your PC or
laptop to the SPECTRUM II Indoor Unit (IDU) via cable or via modem, and
on how to retry making a link connection when the LMT cannot do this for you
at start-up or when the link goes down during an LMT session. Chapter 2 also
reviews setting up your printing environment.
Chapter 3. Changing a Radios Protection Settings describes how to
change the protection state of the near end radio after you have reconfigured
radio hardware for protected or non-protected operation.
Chapter 4. Setting and Changing Radio Configurations walks you
through the configuration process. Step-by-step, this chapter explains how to
set or change configuration parameters for the radios at both ends of the link,
using "Convert a 3.x Config File" feature, how to send the configurations to
the radios, how to save radio configurations to file, and how to print radio
configuration data.
Chapter 5. Monitoring Your Link with LMT Reports introduces the
LMT reports feature used for dynamic monitoring of radio and link status and
performance. This chapter also provides step-by-step instructions for viewing,
resetting, and saving LMT online reports, for printing reports and files, and for
logging radio fault conditions captured by the LMT to file.
Chapter 6. Running Loopback Tests describes how to set up and run LMT
loopback tests used for verifying radio, cable, and link operation.
Chapter 7. Locking a Protected Radio tells you how to lock one side of a
protected radio pair online to perform maintenance on the backup circuitry, or
to run loopback diagnostics on either the online or offline unit. This chapter
also explains how to return the protected radio configuration to monitored
hot-standby switching.
Chapter 8. Upgrading SPECTRUM II Software describes how to use the
LMT to easily and efficiently upgrade SPECTRUM II operating software used
for radio device control.
Chapter 9. Creating and Maintaining Custom Frequencies details how to
create and maintain custom channel plans when the frequency you need is not
available in any of the standard channel plans.
Appendix A. Installing the LMT provides step-by-step instructions on how
to install LMT application software and associated initialization files on your
PC or laptop.

Digital Microwave Corporation

Local Maintenance Terminal User Guide

Appendix B. Radio Faults lists and describes the radio faults captured and
reported by the LMT when a malfunction occurs in the equipment at either the
near end or far end radio terminal, or in the transmission path between the two
radios.
"Appendix C. Troubleshooting Charts" provides functional flowcharts used
for troubleshooting various SPECTRUM II operational problems.
"Appendix D. Cable Pinout Diagrams" contains pinout diagrams for D-Sub
9F-RJ45 and D-Sub 9F-25F cable connections.
"Appendix E. Working with the LMT Navigator" describes how to use the
LMT Navigator tool to maneuver through the LMT Online Help file.
Glossary of Terms provides a dictionary of commonly used terms and key
concepts.

Where to Find More Information


The manuals and other materials identified below contain additional information
that can assist you in understanding, installing, and using the LMT, SPECTRUM
II Microwave Radio Systems, and Microsoft Windows.
Information About the Local Maintenance Terminal

The Local Maintenance Terminal Quick Start Guide, (P/N


300-610008-001), covers the basics of using the LMT.

The LMT Online Help Facility provides a full-featured reference guide to


user tasks for configuring, monitoring, and managing SPECTRUM II radio
terminals.

README.WRI is an online file containing information updated since the


Local Maintenance Terminal User Guide was last printed.

Information About the SPECTRUM II Microwave Radio System

For information about installing and using SPECTRUM II radio terminals,


see the SPECTRUM II Microwave Radio System Installation and
Operation Manual (P/N 310-662006-001).

Information About Microsoft Windows

300-610007-001

For Microsoft Windows 3.1 users, the Microsoft Windows Users Guide
provides a detailed description of how to work in a Windows environment.
Both basic and advanced topics are addressed.

For Microsoft Windows NT users, see the Windows NT Workstation


Systems Guide.

For Microsoft Windows 95 users, see Introducing Microsoft Windows


95.

Rev 1b, May 1998

xi

About This Guide

xii

Digital Microwave Corporation

Before You Begin

What You Need


This section describes minimum system requirements to run the Local
Maintenance Terminal application, based on the operating system software
platform your installation uses.

Software Platforms
The LMT runs under the following operating systems:

Microsoft Windows, Version 3.1, 3.11.

Microsoft Windows NT, Version 3.51 or higher.

Microsoft Windows 95.

Windows 3.1 Hardware Prerequisites


Category

Requirement

Hardware

An IBM or IBM-compatible personal computer (PC) or


laptop with a 80486/25-based or higher processor.
A color VGA display or higher resolution video display
adapter.
One free COM port.
3.5 inch, 1.44 MB diskette drive.
A mouse or other pointing device.
At least 21.5 MB free hard disk space for the operating
system.

Memory

300-610007-001

Rev 1b, May 1998

At least 8 MB RAM.

xiii

Before You Begin

Windows NT Hardware Prerequisites


Category

Requirement

Hardware

An IBM or IBM-compatible PC or laptop with a


80486/25-based or higher processor.
A color VGA display or higher resolution video display
adapter.
One free COM port.
CD-ROM drive
3.5 inch, 1.44 MB diskette drive.
A mouse or other pointing device.
At least 75 MB of free hard disk space for the operating
system.

Memory

At least 12 MB RAM. 16 MB recommended.

Windows 95 Hardware Prerequisites


Category

Requirement

Hardware

An IBM or IBM-compatible PC or laptop with a


80486/25-based or higher processor.
A color VGA display or higher resolution video display
adapter.
One free COM port.
CD-ROM drive.
A mouse or other pointing device.
At least 35-40 MB of free hard disk space for the
operating system. Actual requirements vary based on the
Windows 95 features you choose to install.

Memory

xiv

At least 8 MB RAM.

Digital Microwave Corporation

Local Maintenance Terminal User Guide

LMT Software and Cable Kit Requirements


The LMT Software and Cable Kit contains LMT installation disks and the cable
used for connecting a PC or laptop to the IDU of a SPECTRUM II radio.

300-610007-001

Kit Component

Description

Program Disk
P/N 302-172101-040111

Contains installation setup files and


LMT program software files.

Help Files Disk


P/N 302-172601-040001

Contains LMT Online Help files.

Channel Plan Disk


P/N 302-172301-040002

Contains the STDFREQ.MDB file


(standard channel plan definitions), the
CUSTFREQ.MDB file (custom channel
plans), and associated .LDB files for
each.

Diplexer.ini Disk
P/N 302-172401-040102

Contains the DIPLEXER.INI file


(diplexer tuning ranges for various
SPECTRUM II options).

ODBC Files Disk 1


P/N 302-172501-040001

Contains disk 1 of ODBC-related files


for setting up required data sources.

ODBC files Disk 2


P/N 302-172502-040001

Contains remaining ODBC-related files


for setting up required data sources.

LMT Cable, D-Sub 9F-RJ45 Cable


(P/N 037-502010-960)

Provides for the connection between a


PC/laptop and the Indoor Unit of a
SPECTRUM II microwave radio
terminal.

Rev 1b, May 1998

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Before You Begin

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Digital Microwave Corporation

Chapter 1. Introducing the LMT

Configuring and Managing a SPECTRUM II System


The LMT application is a windows-based software tool that brings
SPECTRUM II radio configuration and control functions to the desktop, along
with increased visibility into link status and performance.

The LMT lets you set and


change radio configuration
parameters from your
keyboard, providing you with
real time reporting on link
status and performance

Using the LMT to Manage Your SPECTRUM II Radio Terminals

The LMT makes it possible for you to configure and control both radios in a
microwave link from one location. Easy-to-use LMT windows and pulldown
menus let you simultaneously define configuration parameters for the near end
and far end radios, monitor dynamically updated link diagnostics, status, and
performance data, and change radio configurations in real time. You also use the
LMT to verify proper radio, cable, and link operation, to lock a protected system
to perform backup maintenance, and to upgrade the SPECTRUM II software that
controls radio operation. For added flexibility, the LMT includes a dial-in
capability for remote access to a SPECTRUM II radio through a modem
connection.

300-610007-001

Rev 1b, May 1998

1-1

Chapter 1. Introducing the LMT

This chapter introduces key features of the LMT application. It describes how to
start the LMT on your PC or laptop, and how to exit the application. It also
acquaints you with the LMT Online Help Facility.

More About How You Use the LMT


A full suite of LMT features let you quickly and easily do all SPECTRUM II
configuration, monitoring, and control from your PC or laptop. Here is more on
the tasks you use the LMT to perform:

Changing Protection Settings


A SPECTRUM II radio terminal is available from the factory in both a
protected and non-protected hardware configuration. If at any later time
you change radio hardware for protected or non-protected operation, you
use the LMT Protection Settings function to make a corresponding
change to the radio's protection state.

Configuring Radios
The LMT Configure Radios function lets you set radio configuration
parameters for the radios at each end of a link, and make dynamic
adjustments to these parameters such as fine-tuning attenuation levels and
BER alarm thresholds, enabling or disabling tributary fault alerts, and
more. The Configure Radios function is also available for creating and
storing configuration data for future use in terminal configuration.

Monitoring Link Status and Performance


You use the LMT Faults & Reports function to monitor real time link status
and performance data and to localize and identify radio or link problems. You
can view and print online reports that keep you informed about current link
conditions or that provide a ready inventory of radio software levels and
configuration settings. You can also log or save radio fault data to file and reset
selective reports.

Consolidated near end and


far end reporting lets you
simultaneously see and
compare status and
performance data for both
ends of the link.

Running Loopback Tests


The LMT Loopback Tests function lets you run loopback tests to verify both
baseband and radio frequency operation at the near end and far end of the link
and throughout the entire radio hop.

You will want to use the LMT


Loopback Tests function
after you have installed a new
SPECTRUM II radio system,
and anytime you want to run
radio or link diagnostics.

You can also test all radio circuits, including the transmitter and receiver.
Loopback tests are service-affecting.

Locking Protected Radios


A protected radio has two sets of radio circuitry, with one set of circuitry
sending and receiving traffic and the other set of circuitry operating in
backup mode. When you need to do maintenance or diagnostics on a
protected system, select the LMT Locking & Software function to lock
the appropriate side online. You use the same function to return the radio to
protected operation.

1-2

Digital Microwave Corporation

Local Maintenance Terminal User Guide

Upgrading Radio Software


You also use the LMT Locking & Software function to upgrade
SPECTRUM II radio software. You can choose to download and activate
software upgrades simultaneously to both the near end and far end
terminals, or confine software upgrading to selective IDUs in the link.

Creating Custom Frequencies


The LMT Custom Frequencies function lets you create and maintain
custom channel plans when a needed radio frequency is not available in the
standard channel plans installed with the LMT.1

Online Help
The LMT Online Help Facility delivers an extensive array of help
information to your desktop to assist you in understanding and using the
product. Detailed information about product features and instructions on
how to perform radio set up and control tasks are available at your
fingertips.

The LMT and Microsoft Windows


Before you begin using the LMT to configure and manage SPECTRUM II
Microwave Radio Systems, you should be familiar with Windows
fundamentalsfor example, using the mouse, working with windows, opening
and closing applications, and taking advantage of keyboard shortcuts. If you are
new to the Windows environment, refer to the appropriate Windows manual for
detailed information about using associated features:

For Windows 3.1 and 3.11users, see the Windows Users Guide.

For Windows NT users, see the Windows NT Workstation Systems Guide.

For Windows 95 users, see Introducing Microsoft Windows 95.

The Custom Frequencies function is available only on new generation Voltage Controlled Oscillator
(VCO)-Multiplier SPECTRUM II radios.

300-610007-001

Rev 1b, May 1998

1-3

Chapter 1. Introducing the LMT

SPECTRUM II Systems and the LMT Working Together


Once you have installed LMT
software on your PC or
laptop and have connected
your computer to a radio
terminal via either cable or
modem, the LMT
communicates directly with
and controls the radios at
both ends of the link.

A typical SPECTRUM II Microwave Radio System, also referred to as a link or hop,


consists of two radio terminals. Each radio terminal operates on the same channel:

The radio terminal that is physically connected to your PC or laptop is called


the near end radio.

The radio at the other end of the link is called the far end radio and is logically
connected to your computer via the LMT. The far end radio communicates with
the LMT application over the microwave link.

The LMT Communicates with Both Radio Terminals in a Microwave Link

Microwave Links and LMT Communication


SPECTRUM II radios have
overhead channels that carry
information over and above
the traffic-carrying capacity
of the equipment.

1-4

The telemetry required between the two radio terminals in a link to accommodate
LMT operation is carried over what is known as a digital communication channel.
This dedicated overhead channel does not occupy any of your digital lines or
available service tributaries.
A SPECTRUM II system can operate as a single link or as part of a multi-link
network:

The LMT application communicates with and manages a single link at a


time: the link to which it is connected.

The DMC Net network management system is an optional product


developed by DMC for use in alarm monitoring and control of multiple
links operating in a communications network.

Digital Microwave Corporation

Local Maintenance Terminal User Guide

Component Parts of a Radio Terminal


Each SPECTRUM II radio terminal has three basic components: one or more
Indoor Units (IDUs) depending on the radios protection status, an Outdoor Unit
(ODU), and an antenna and antenna mount:

Indoor Unit (IDU)

A digital modem used for interfacing with digital


terminal equipment. Status and fault indicators are
provided on the front panel of the IDU for visually
monitoring system status and faults. In addition, a
pushbutton switch on the front panel, when depressed,
allows indication of the far end terminal status and faults.
The IDU of each terminal can be physically connected to
user termination equipment, and connected via cable or
modem to your PC or laptop.

Outdoor Unit
(ODU)

A radio frequency (RF) unit used for converting a


baseband signal from the modem to a microwave signal.
The ODU provides the interface between the antenna and
the IDU and is designed to be mounted with the antenna
on the antenna mount.

Antenna
and Mount

A device used for transmitting and receiving microwave


signals. The antenna interfaces with the ODU.

Built-in microcomputers in
the IDU and ODU monitor
and control most radio
functions.

The Basic Components of a SPECTRUM II Radio Terminal

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Chapter 1. Introducing the LMT

Protected Versus Non-Protected Operation


SPECTRUM II radios are available in different operating frequency bands and
data rate capacities and can be configured for protected or non-protected
operation:

Protected Operation

A protected system has a redundant set of


radio circuitry, providing a safeguard against
communication outages caused by hardware
equipment failures. Two complete radios are
included: one that is in service and one that is
on standby. A microprocessor monitors the
online circuitry and switches to the back-up
circuitry if a failure is detected. This process
is commonly referred to as monitored
hot-standby switching. Protected systems are
designated as SPECTRUM II P radios.

Non-Protected Operation

A non-protected radio configuration has only


one transmitter and one receiver, with no
built-in protection. Non-protected systems are
designated as SPECTRUM II NP radios.

Examples of Protected and Non-Protected Radio Configurations

You can temporarily lock one side of a protected radio online in order to run
diagnostics or do routine system or terminal maintenance on the other side. You
can also designate which side of a protected pair you prefer to be online during
normal operation.

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Local Maintenance Terminal User Guide

SPECTRUM II Front Panel Configurations


SPECTRUM II IDUs are available in two front panel configurations: a one rack
unit (1U) version and a four rack unit (4U) version. Both the 1U and 4U versions
can be configured for protected operation.

1U IDU Configurations
A 1U IDU has a front panel dimension of 1.75 inches (4.445 centimeters) high
by 19 inches (48.26 centimeters) wide and occupies one standard EIA rack space
or rack unit (IU). The SPECTRUM II 1U IDU is used for all bit rates.
A protected 1U IDU configuration adds a second IDU that fills one more rack
unit of space.

Examples of Non-Protected and Protected 1U IDU Configurations

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Chapter 1. Introducing the LMT

4U IDU Configurations
A 4U IDU has a 7 inch (17.78 centimeters) by 19 inch (48.26 centimeters) front
panel, thereby using four standard rack units (4U).
To achieve a 16xDS1/E1 tributary capacity, an IDU assembly panel is added that
contains additional connectors. The physical layout of the IDU is altered from
that of the 1U configuration to provide space for a fan. The IDU in this
configuration is called an IDU PIU (plug-in unit). This entire assembly fills four
rack units and is designated as a 4U IDU.
A protected 4U IDU configuration adds a second IDU PIU into an available slot
in the four rack unit assembly.

Examples of Non-Protected and Protected 4U IDU Configurations

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Digital Microwave Corporation

Local Maintenance Terminal User Guide

Staying Informed with the LMT


For instructions on how to
attach your PC or laptop to
an IDU via cable or modem,
see Connecting to an IDU"
in Chapter 2.

When you start the LMT application with your PC or laptop already connected
to the near end IDU, the LMT automatically establishes communication with the
radios at both ends of the microwave link. To visually confirm the connection,
the MAINT LED on the IDU front panel flashes amber and continues to do so as
long as the connection exists.
The Link Status window is the first window you see after starting the LMT
application. The Link Status window functions as the main LMT window,
supplying you with relevant information about both the link as a whole and
about the two radios at either end.

An Example of the LMT Link Status Window

What You Can See


A quick look at the Link Status window reveals the following details about
your microwave link:

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The system conditions bar displays up to four indicators: Link is


up/down, Fault, Test, and Auto/Lock. These indicators alert you to any
existing problems for the link and let you know if a loopback test is still in
progress or if a protected radio remains in a locked state.

The first windowpane contains link-related information, including the Link


ID, radio tributary capacity and type, channel plan, and channel number
configured for the link. When radio or link faults are active, this window
pane also presents the Go To Fault Log button. Clicking this button
displays the online Faults report for your immediate viewing.

The second windowpane reveals key information about the two radios in
the link. At a glance, you can quickly determine the site and radio names
configured for each end, whether the radios at the near end and far end of

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Chapter 1. Introducing the LMT

the link are protected or non-protected, what their transmit and receive
(TX/RX) frequency rates are, and which end is transmitting at the higher
frequency (marked as high band versus low band). For a protected radio
configuration, you also see which side you are connected to, which side of
the protected pair is operating as the master, which side is currently online,
and whether a side is locked.
Link status data is updated in real time as the session proceeds. To ensure that
you keep current on link conditions, the LMT makes it easy for you to return to
the Link Status window from anywhere else in the application. Simply click
the Link Status button available on the system conditions bar of any LMT
window.

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Local Maintenance Terminal User Guide

Starting the LMT


The operating system the LMT runs under determines the procedure you use to
start the application on your PC or laptop. Starting the LMT application displays
the Link Status window on your desktop, ready for you to begin working with
the LMT.

To Start the LMT Under Windows 3.1


1.

Turn on your PC or laptop.

2.

If your computer is not set up to automatically start Windows on your


desktop, type win at the DOS prompt. Then press the Enter key.

3.

When the Windows Program Manager Desktop appears on your desktop,


double-click the LMT 4.01 icon located in the LMT 4.0 group window.

An Example of the LMT Group Window

To Start the LMT Under Windows NT 3.51


1.

Turn on your PC or laptop.

2.

If your computer is configured to start more than one operating system,


press the appropriate arrow key at the startup screen to choose Windows
NT Workstation Version 3.51. Then press the Enter key.

3.

In response to the Begin Login message, press CTRL+ALT+DEL to


initiate the log in process.

4.

When the log in dialog box appears, type your user name and password and
select either your local computer name or the name of a Windows NT
Server domain. Then click OK.

5.

When the Windows Program Manager Desktop appears, double-click the


LMT 4.01 icon located in the LMT 4.0 group window.

To Start the LMT Under Windows NT 4.0 or Windows 95

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1.

Turn on your PC or laptop.

2.

For Windows NT 4.0 users, press CTRL+ALT+DEL in response to the log


in message.

3.

When the Welcome to Windows dialog box appears, type your user
name and password. Then click OK.

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Chapter 1. Introducing the LMT

4.

When the Windows desktop appears, click the Start button located at the
bottom of the screen.

5.

Point to Program, then point to the LMT folder. Click LMT 4.01 from
the list of programs you can start.

Understanding LMT Informational and Navigational


Features
LMT windows include three informational and navigational featuresthe menu
bar, the system conditions bar, and the function bar. These features notify you of
important link conditions or let you quickly and easily access other LMT
windows to perform associated functions. This section explores each of these
three LMT features in greater detail.

About the Menu Bar


The menu bar located near the top of each LMT window contains four
keywords.

The LMT Menu Bar

Choosing a keyword displays a pulldown menu of associated options used to


either initiate a particular task or to take you elsewhere in the application.
This keyword

Displays these pulldown menu options

File

Print, used to print LMT reports and files.


Print Setup, used to set up your printing environment.
Exit, used to close the current window and exit the LMT.

1-12

Connect

Connect via Cable, used to connect to link radios when


you are connecting via cable and the LMT fails to make a
connection at start-up or the connection goes down during
an LMT session. This menu option is also used to change
the default COM port setting that the LMT uses for
communicating with the microwave link.

Go To

Go To displays a list of the LMT windows you can


select and go to from anywhere in the application.

Help

Help displays a list of main online Help topics to select


from.

Digital Microwave Corporation

Local Maintenance Terminal User Guide

About the System Conditions Bar


The system conditions bar immediately follows the LMT menu bar and can
contain up to four indicators used to notify you of key radio and link conditions.

The LMT System Conditions Bar

This indicator appears

Under these conditions

Link is up/down

The Link is up/down indicator keeps you


informed about the current state of the link. When
the link is operational, the indicator label toggles
to Link is up and illuminates in white. Should
the link go down, the indicator label toggles to
Link is down and illuminates in red.

Fault

The red Fault indicator appears only when faults


are active for the link.

Test

The yellow Test indicator appears only when a


loopback test is running.

Auto/Lock

The Auto/Lock indicator appears only when one


or both of the radios in the link have protected
configurations. When monitored hot-standby
switching is in effect for all protected IDUs, the
indicator label toggles to Auto and illuminates in
white. Should either protected system be placed
in a locked state, the indicator label toggles to
Lock and illuminates in yellow.

The system conditions bar also contains the Link Status button. Clicking this
button provides a short cut back to the Link Status window from any other
LMT window.

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Chapter 1. Introducing the LMT

About the Function Bar


The function bar displayed at the bottom of the Link Status window contains
six LMT function buttons.

The Link Status Window Function Bar

Clicking an LMT function button displays the window used to perform that
function.

1-14

Click this button

To display

Protection Settings

The Protection Settings window used for changing


the protection state of a near end radio to protected or
non-protected.

Configure Radios

The Configure Radios window used for creating,


converting, and changing radio configurations and
radio configuration files.

Faults & Reports

The Faults & Reports window used for viewing


LMT reports, logging or saving radio fault data to file,
resetting selective reports, and printing reports.

Loopback Tests

The Loopback Tests window used for running


LMT loopback tests.

Locking & Software

The Locking & Software window used for


temporarily locking one side of a protected radio
terminal online, and for downloading and activating
SPECTRUM II software.

Custom Frequencies

The Custom Frequency window used for creating


and maintaining custom channel plans for new
generation SPECTRUM II Voltage Controlled
Oscillator (VCO)-Multiplier radios.

Digital Microwave Corporation

Local Maintenance Terminal User Guide

The LMT Windows Map


The following map illustrates the navigational relationship between the main
LMT Link Status window and the supporting windows used to perform
individual LMT functions.

A Navigational Map of the Windows Used to Perform LMT Functions

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Chapter 1. Introducing the LMT

Exiting the LMT


Depending on the specific operating system the LMT is running under, exiting
the LMT application returns you to either the Program Manager desktop or to
the Windows desktop. Prior to exiting the LMT, the application lets you know if
you have forgotten to save any configuration changes made during the LMT
session and prompts you to do so where appropriate. The LMT also notifies you
when a protected radio remains in a locked state, when fault events are still being
logged to a file, or when a loopback test is running.
Note: To ensure that the LMT terminates properly, always use one of the
exit methods recommended below. Doing so gives you the
opportunity to review important messages presented by the LMT
that remind you of current link conditions or that alert you to
additional tasks you may want to complete before finally exiting the
system

To Exit the LMT Under Windows 3.1 or Windows NT 3.51


Under Windows 3.1 or Windows NT 3.51, you can use one of three ways to exit
the LMT application. From any LMT window:

Choose the File menu on the menu bar, then choose the Exit command; or

Double-click the Control-menu box () displayed in the upper left-hand


cornerthis is the quickest way to exit an application; or

Click the Control-menu box once to display the Control menu, then
choose the Close command.

To Exit the LMT Under Windows NT 4.0 or Windows 95


Under Windows NT 4.0 or Windows 95, you can use one of two ways to exit the
LMT application. From any LMT window:

1-16

Choose the File menu on the menu bar, then choose the Exit command; or

Click the Close button (X) in the upper-right corner of the window.

Digital Microwave Corporation

Local Maintenance Terminal User Guide

Using the LMT Online Help Facility


The LMT includes a full-featured Online Help Facility to assist you in
configuring, monitoring, and managing SPECTRUM II systems. Help is
available whenever you see Help as an item on a window menu bar.

The LMT Online Help


Facility provides a
convenient, quick way to look
up information about a task
you are performing, a feature
you want to investigate, or an
action you want to initiate.
The floating LMT Navigator
window lets you see precisely
where you are within the
overall structure of the LMT
Online Help file.

Examples of the Contents Window and the LMT Navigator Window


for LMT Online Help

The Online Help Facility includes the LMT Navigator, an efficient and intuitive
tool that lets you maneuver through LMT Online Help quickly and easily. The
LMT Navigator displays the entire structure of the LMT Online Help file in
expandable outline form that lets you jump immediately to any Help topic at any
level. The LMT Navigator window is updated continuously as you move
through the LMT Online Help file so that the Navigator and LMT Online Help
are always in sync. You can also use the LMT Navigator tool to print some or all
LMT Online Help topics.

To Access LMT Online Help


You can access Help in three different ways:

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Choose Help from the window menu bar, which displays the Help
pulldown menu. Then choose one of the main Help topics; or

Hold the ALT key down while pressing H, which also displays the Help
pulldown menu. Then choose a main topic; or

Press F1, which displays the Contents for How to Use Help window.
Then choose the desired how to topic.

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Chapter 1. Introducing the LMT

To Activate the LMT Navigator Window


When you access Online Help, the LMT Online Help window and the LMT
Navigator window load automatically. To activate the LMT Navigator
window, select the Navigator button located near the top of the LMT Online
Help window. You can also choose Always On Top from the Options menu
in the Navigator window menu bar.
For a detailed description of how to use the Navigator tool, see "Appendix E.
Working with the LMT Navigator."

More About Getting Help


When you select Help from the window menu bar, a pulldown menu appears
with a list of LMT Help topics. Choosing a topic from the Help pulldown menu
displays another selection list of topics, or places all Help windows in the
foreground, or lets you know what version of LMT software you are currently
using.
Choose this topic

To

How To Use Help

Display the Contents for How to Use Help


window, an index of how to topics for someone
new to using online Help. Choosing a topic displays
how to information for that topic. Choosing How
To Use Help is the same as pressing F1 while you
are using Help.

Always on Top

Cause all Help windows to appear on top of other


windows.

About

Display part number information for LMT


application software and initialization files.

When Contextual Help Is Available


While in Help, certain terms and key phrases have a dotted green underline.
When you click on text formatted in this fashion, a definition or clarification
about the underlined text appears in a separate pop-up window.

Using Help Buttons


When you want more information after reading about a specific topic, you have
several choices. If a list of related topics follows the information, you can choose
from the list. Or you can choose one of the following Help buttons located near
the top of the LMT Online Help window.

Additional Help Button Available for Your Selection

Help buttons assist you in finding the information you need. Choosing a
particular button lets you display a list of Help topics, search for a list of topics
that include a particular keyword, or move forward and backward through the
Help topics you have viewed in the current Help session. If a particular feature is
not available, the button associated with that feature is dimmed.

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Local Maintenance Terminal User Guide

To Use a Help Button


Click the button associated with the information you want to display.
Click this button

To

Contents

Display a list of Help topics for the LMT.

Search

List all the words you can search for in online Help.

Back

Return to the last topic you viewed. You move back


one topic at a time, in the order you viewed the
topics.

History

List the last 40 topics you viewed during the current


session. The most recent topic viewed is listed first.
To revisit a topic, double-click it.

<<

View the previous topic in a series of related topics.

>>

View the next topic in a series of related topics.

Navigator

View the LMT Navigator window.

Glossary

View an alphabetic listing of LMT terms and their


definitions.

Choosing a Hyperlink
Help topics can include graphics and text that link to other Help topics or to
more information about the current topic. If the hyperlink you choose is linked to
another topic, that topic appears in the Help window. Sometimes a hyperlink is
linked to information that appears in a pop-up window or a secondary window.
Hyperlinks are identified by the color green and an underline (unless the
hyperlink is a graphic).

To Choose a Hyperlink
1.

Point to the text or graphic hyperlink. When you point to a hyperlink, the
pointer changes to a hand shape.

2.

Click the mouse button.

(To use the keyboard instead, press Tab to select the text or graphic hyperlink,
then press Enter.)

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Chapter 1. Introducing the LMT

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Digital Microwave Corporation

Chapter 2. Establishing the LMT


Environment

After You Have Installed the LMT


For instructions on how to
install the LMT application
on your PC or laptop, see
"Appendix A. Installing the
LMT.

After you install the LMT on your PC or laptop, you need to establish a working
environment for the application before you can start using the LMT to configure,
monitor, and manage a microwave radio system. Associated tasks can include:1

Connecting your PC or laptop to an IDU via either cable or modem.

Optionally changing the default setting for the serial communications (COM)
port the LMT uses on your computer to communicate with an IDU.

Setting up print options for printing LMT reports and radio configuration data.

This chapter describes how to perform the setup tasks identified above. It also
examines the process the LMT goes through when attempting to connect to link
radios at LMT startup.

Connecting to an IDU
Two methods are available for connecting your PC or laptop to the IDU of
interest:

You can cable your PC or laptop directly to an IDU; or

You can make a remote connection via modem.

If you start the LMT application without being connected to both ends of the
link, or with only partial connection, your access to LMT functionality is limited.
For a description of what you can and cannot do under these circumstances, see
"What Happens at LMT Startup" on page 2-5.

Any time you physically change a radios hardware configuration, you also need to reset the radio for protected or
non-protected operation before you can configure or manage the radio terminal. For instructions on using the
Protection Settings function to perform this task, see Chapter 3: Changing a Radios Protection Settings.

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Chapter 2. Establishing the LMT Environment

To Connect Via Cable


For instructions on changing
the LMT default COM port
setting, see "Retrying a Cable
Connection" on page 2-7.

1.

Plug the LMT cable (D-Sub 9F-RJ45 cable; P/N 037-502010-960) provided
with the LMT Software and Cable Kit into the PC or laptop COM port you
want the LMT to use to talk to an IDU.2

2.

Attach the other end of the LMT cable to the MAINTENANCE port of the
IDU of interest.
Illustrations follow for connecting your computer to a non-protected 1U IDU,
to a protected 1U IDU, and to a protected 4U IDU.

LMT Connection to a Non-Protected 1U IDU

LMT Connection to a 1U IDU When Two 1U IDUs are Connected


for Protected Operation
2

Pinout diagrams for D-Sub 9F-RJ45 and D-Sub 9F-25F cable connections are available in Appendix D. Cable
Pinout Diagrams."

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Local Maintenance Terminal User Guide

Warning: On a protected 1U system, make sure you connect your


computer to the master IDU. The master unit handles all
communication with the microwave link and controls the
terminal. Examples of terminal control functions include IDU
switching and performance monitoring. The other IDU in the
protected pair functions in an auxiliary capacity.
The master IDU may not be the online IDU. To determine
which IDU in a protected pair is the master, look at the Near
End terminal information on the Link Status window. Both the
laptop icon and the word Master should be parallel to either the
A or the B IDU.
Alternatively, press the "Display Far End" button on the IDU. A
momentary green flashing LED indicates master IDU and
momentary amber flashing LED shows non-master IDU.

LMT Connection to a Protected 4U IDU

For instructions on starting


the LMT application, see
"Starting the LMT" in
Chapter 1.

3.

Start the LMT application on your PC or laptop.


When the LMT is able to successfully connect to both radios, the Link Status
window displays on your monitor with relevant information about the link as a
whole and about the two radios at either end.
Otherwise, messages are displayed notifying you of connection problems. Then
the Link Status window appears confirming that the LMT is only partially
connected or not connected at all. For information on the steps to follow when
you need to retry making a connection, see "Retrying a Cable Connection" on
page 2-7.

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Chapter 2. Establishing the LMT Environment

To Connect Via Modem


Before you can make a remote connection to a SPECTRUM II radio, you need
to attach your data modem to the IDU of interest. Use a null modem adapter
between the LMT cable (RJ45) and the modem to make the proper connection
between the IDU and the modem. Null modem adapters are available at most
computer stores. You may also need additional equipment to plug into the
adapter, such as an RJ45-to-DB25 male/female adapter or other converter to
arrive at the proper connection size. Your specific needs depend on the COM
port configuration on your computer.
After attaching your data modem to the IDU of interest:

For instructions on starting


the LMT application, see
"Starting the LMT" in
Chapter 1.

2-4

1.

Start communications software on your PC or laptop. ProComm Plus


software is recommended.

2.

Where appropriate, select the telephone number used for dialing in to the
IDU.

3.

After receiving notification that a connection has been established, exit the
communications software package without hanging up the established
connection.

4.

Start the LMT application on your PC or laptop. The Link Status window
appears on your monitor with relevant information about the link as a whole
and about the two radios at either end.

5.

When you are ready to terminate the remote connection between the LMT and
the IDU of interest, close the LMT as described in "Exiting the LMT" in
Chapter 1.

Digital Microwave Corporation

Local Maintenance Terminal User Guide

What Happens at LMT Startup


After you start the LMT from your Windows desktop, the LMT tries to connect
first to the near end radio and then to the far end radio. When the LMT
successfully connects to a radio, the application accesses and validates
corresponding radio frequency data, then gets and displays radio configuration
data for that end of the link. Messages displayed on the Link Status screen
keep you informed about the status of the connection process.

Radio Connection States


The following table identifies the various connection states that can occur at
LMT startup, along with corresponding LMT functional availability.
This connection state

Has this effect on LMT Functionality

Full Connectivity

If the LMT successfully connects to both the near end


and far end radios, all LMT functions on the Link
Status window are enabled for both radios.

Partial Connectivity

If the LMT connects to only the near end radio you


are limited to performing functions specific to that
radio.

An Example of the Link Status Window Displayed When the LMT Is


Connected to Only the Near End Radio
When LMT connection is limited to the near end
radio you can:

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Configure the near end radio and send


configuration data to that radio. Be sure you set
configuration values correctly in order to reestablish the link with the far end radio. You
cannot save any configuration changes you make
until the link is up.

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Chapter 2. Establishing the LMT Environment

This connection state

Has this effect on LMT Functionality

Partial Connectivity
(Cont'd)

Change protection settings for the near end


3
radio.

View near end radio reports.

Run Input, Digital, and Local loopback tests.


Remote loopback testing cannot be performed
until a full link is established.

Change locking controls for the near end radio.

Download and activate IDU software to the near


end radio.

Make a COM port selection.

No Connectivity

If the LMT cannot connect to either radio, the Link


Status window displays with all LMT function
buttons disabled except for Configure Radios.

An Example of the Link Status Window Displayed When the LMT Is


Not Connected to Any Radio
You can use the LMT application only to open,
create, or modify a configuration file for both radios,
to print a file or report, to make a COM port
selection, or to retry establishing a link connection.
No Access to Any
Channel Plans

If the LMT cannot access required standard


frequency and custom frequency data sources, a
display message notifies you of this condition and
suggests re-installing LMT software. (One cause of
this connection state is the ODU not being connected
to the near-end radio.)

When you dial in to a radio via modem, the Protection Settings function is always disabled.

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Local Maintenance Terminal User Guide

This connection state

Has this effect on LMT Functionality

No Access to
Radio Frequency

If the LMT does not have access to a channel plan


that contains the frequency found on one or both
radios, a display message identifies the unknown
radio frequency. All LMT functions are still available
for your selection:

If the LMT cannot identify a standard radio


frequency (the corresponding Synthesizer ID is
not in the STDFREQ.MDB data base), contact
DMC for a database upgrade.

If the LMT cannot identify a custom frequency:


For a custom frequency created in LMT 4.0
or a later version, you can choose to let the
LMT create a new custom channel plan for
you. If required information resides in the
DIPLEXER.INI file, the LMT creates the
custom frequency automatically. If required
information is unavailable, contact DMC
for a DIPLEXER.INI file update.
For a custom frequency created prior to
LMT 4.0, you need to manually recreate
the custom frequency in LMT 4.0.

Boot Mode

Otherwise, you need to select a known channel


plan and frequency before you can send a
configuration to the radio(s).

If the LMT detects that the radio is in boot mode,


only the Locking & Software function is enabled
on the Link Status window. Once you complete the
steps necessary to re-download and activate the latest
version of IDU software as described in Chapter 8.
Upgrading SPECTRUM II Software, all LMT
functions become available for your selection.

Retrying a Cable Connection


LMT connection problems can be caused by factors such as:

Starting the LMT application without attaching the LMT cable to both your
computer and to the near end IDU.

Failing to power on the IDU.

Pulling the LMT cable while an LMT session is in progress.

Selecting the wrong COM port for communication between the LMT and
the radios.

Losing your modem connection.

If you are connected to the near end IDU via cable, you can retry making a
connection by following the steps outlined in the procedure below. If you are
using the LMT remote dial-up capability, repeat the procedure described in "To
Connect Via Modem" on page 2-4.

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Chapter 2. Establishing the LMT Environment

To Retry Making a Connection Via Cable


1.

From the menu bar on the Link Status window, choose the Connect via
Cable menu option from the Connect pulldown menu.

2.

The Connect via Cable window appears as shown below.

An Example of the Connect via Cable Window

Before proceeding:
a.

Make sure the LMT cable connects your computer to the IDU of
interest.

b.

If you have a protected 1U system, make sure the LMT is connected


to the master IDU.

c.

Make sure the IDU you are connected to is powered on.

3.

Next, click the COM Port Setting button to verify that you have the
proper COM port setting.

4.

The COM Port Settings dialog box appears as shown below.

An Example of the COM Port Settings Dialog Box

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Local Maintenance Terminal User Guide

5.

If you are installing the LMT on a laptop computer, you may want to
set COM1 or COM2 to communicate with the radio.

If you are installing the LMT on a desktop computer using a serial


mouse, you may want to set COM3 or COM4 to communicate with
the radio.

After verifying or making your COM port selection, click OK to close


the COM Port Setting dialog box.

Click the Make Connection button from the Connect via Cable
window. The LMT retries establishing communication with the radios at
both ends of the microwave link.
When the retry is successful, the Link Status window is refreshed with
relevant link and radio information and all LMT functions are now
available for your selection.
When the retry fails, optionally select the other COM port setting and retry
again.

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Chapter 2. Establishing the LMT Environment

Defining Your Printing Environment


You use the Print Setup option available in the File pulldown menu to define
the environment you want to use for printing LMT online reports, radio
configurations, and associated files.
The print setup process involves selecting a printer and configuring the various
options available for that printer. Most of these options fine-tune the quality of
your printers output. You can either accept and use the default options already
in place for the printer you select or change these options to suit your particular
needs. Reference the appropriate Windows documentation for assistance with
selecting and setting print options.

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Digital Microwave Corporation

Chapter 3. Changing a Radios


Protection Settings

When Your SPECTRUM II Arrives from the Factory


Prior to shipping a SPECTRUM II radio terminal to a customer, DMC factory
personnel configure radio hardware for protected or non-protected operation
(SPECTRUM II P or SPECTRUM II NP). If you subsequently change radio
hardware to a protected or non-protected configuration, you must make a
corresponding change to the protection settings for that radio terminal before
you can use the LMT to configure or otherwise manage the radio:

For a 1U radio configuration, use the LMT Protection Settings function


to reset the protection state of a radio to protected or to non-protected.

For a 4U radio configuration, see the SPECTRUM II Microwave Radio


System Installation and Operation Manual for instructions on changing
radio protection state settings.

When changing a radio's protection settings, corresponding RSSI offset values


are automatically reformulated and sent to the radio.
The Protection Settings function only applies to the near end radio. If you
have changed radio hardware at both ends of the microwave link, go to the far
end and reset the protection state for the far end radio as well.
Note: Once you begin the task of changing the protection state of a near
end radio, both the Go to keyword option on the menu bar and
the Link Status button on the system conditions bar are disabled
and remain so until you either complete the task or explicitly cancel
the process.

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Chapter 3. Changing a Radios Protection Settings

Setting Up a Protected Radio


When you reconfigure radio hardware on a SPECTRUM II NP 1U radio for
protected operation, you need to change the protection state for the radio from
non-protected to protected. To perform this function, alternately attach your
computer to each IDU in the protected pair, then label the IDU as either the A
side or the B side.
Note: While A side/B side labeling does not need to coincide with how
the two IDUs are physically cabled together, we recommend that
you always label the IDU on the top as the A side and the IDU on
the bottom as the B side.

To Set a 1U Radio as Protected


1.

Click the Protection Settings button at the bottom of the Link Status
window, or choose Protection Settings from the Go To pulldown
menu on any LMT window.

2.

The following information box displays on your PC or laptop.

Protection Settings Information Box

In response to the prompt:

3-2

Click Continue to proceed with changing protection settings for this


radio terminal; or

Click Cancel to terminate the Protection Settings function and


return to the Link Status window.

Digital Microwave Corporation

Local Maintenance Terminal User Guide

3.

When you select Continue, the Protection Settings window appears as


shown below.

An Example of the LMT Protection Settings Window for a Non-Protected IDU

In response to window prompts:

Click the Protected radio setup option; or

Click Cancel to return to the Link Status window.

Note: If you are connected to a 4U radio, a message box appears


directing you to the SPECTRUM II Microwave Radio System
Installation and Operation Manual for instructions on performing
this task. Clicking OK returns you to the Link Status window.
A protected 4U radio is automatically labeled with the A side as the
top unit and the B side as the bottom unit.
4.

The Protection Settings window expands, prompting you to ready the


IDU you want to label as the A side.

Labeling the A Side of a Protected Radio Pair

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Chapter 3. Changing a Radios Protection Settings

5.

a.

Verify that the protection cable is connecting the two IDUs in the
protected pair. Make this connection if you have not already done so.

b.

Verify that the LMT cable connected to your PC or laptop is


connected to the IDU you want to label as the A side. Make this
connection if you have not already done so.

c.

Click the Label IDU as A button.

The following information box appears, prompting you to perform the


remaining steps necessary to complete the A side labeling process.

The Information Box Displayed When Labeling the A Side IDU

In response to information box prompts:

6.

a.

Manually turn the power off and then on again on the IDU connected
to the LMT.

b.

Click OK after the IDU has returned to a ready state.

The Protection Settings window expands once again, prompting you to


ready the IDU you want to label as the B side.

Labeling the B Side of a Protected Pair

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Local Maintenance Terminal User Guide

In response to window prompts:

7.

a.

Attach the LMT cable connected to your computer to the IDU you
want to label as the B side.

b.

Click the Label IDU as B button.

A second information box appears, prompting you to perform the


remaining steps necessary to complete the B side labeling process.

The Information Box Displayed When Labeling the B Side IDU

In response to information box prompts:


a.

Manually turn the power off and then on again on the IDU connected
to the LMT.

b.

Attach the LMT cable to the other IDU in this protected pair. It is
now the master IDU, which controls switching.

c.

Click OK after both IDUs have returned to a ready state.

8.

A message appears notifying you that the B side labeling process is


complete and that the radio is ready for protected operation. Click OK to
close the message box and return to the Link Status window.

9.

(Optional). To determine which IDU in a protected pair is the master, look


at the Near End terminal information on the Link Status window. Both the
laptop icon and the word Master should be parallel to either the A or the B
IDU or use the display Far End button process.

10. If radio hardware located at the other end of the link has also been
reconfigured, go to the far end and reset radio protection settings there.

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Chapter 3. Changing a Radios Protection Settings

Setting Up a Non-Protected Radio


When you reconfigure radio hardware on a SPECTRUM II P 1U radio for
non-protected operation, you need to change the protection state for the radio
from protected to non-protected.

To Set a 1U Radio as Non-Protected


1.

Click the Protection Settings button at the bottom of the Link Status
window, or choose Protection Settings from the Go To pulldown
menu on any LMT window.

2.

The following information box displays on your PC or laptop.

Protection Settings Information Box

In response to the prompt:

3.

3-6

Click Continue to proceed with changing protection settings for this


radio terminal; or

Click Cancel to terminate the Protection Settings function and


return to the Link Status window.

When you select Continue, the Protection Settings window appears.

Digital Microwave Corporation

Local Maintenance Terminal User Guide

An Example of the LMT Protection Settings Window for a Protected IDU

In response to window prompts:

Click the Non-Protected radio setup option; or

Click Cancel to return to the Link Status window.

Note: If you are connected to a 4U radio, a message box appears


directing you to the SPECTRUM II Microwave Radio System
Installation and Operation Manual for instructions on performing
this task. Clicking OK returns you to the Link Status window.
A protected 4U radio is automatically labeled with the A side as the
top unit and the B side as the bottom unit.
4.

The Protection Settings window expands, prompting you to ready the


IDU you want to label as non-protected.

Setting Up a Radio as Non-Protected

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Chapter 3. Changing a Radios Protection Settings

In response to window prompts:

5.

a.

If you are changing the IDU from protected to non-protected, ensure


that the protection cable is NOT connected to the IDU. Remove this
cable if you have not already done so.

b.

Attach the LMT cable connected to your computer to the IDU you
want to set up as non-protected.

c.

Click the Set IDU as Non-Protected button.

The following information box appears, prompting you to perform the


remaining steps necessary to complete the IDU labeling process.

The Information Box Displayed When Labeling an IDU as Non-Protected

In response to information box prompts:

3-8

a.

Manually turn the power off and then on again on the IDU connected
to the LMT.

b.

Click OK after the IDU has returned to a ready state.

6.

A message appears notifying you that the IDU has been set up as nonprotected. Click OK to close the message box and return to the Link
Status window.

7.

If radio hardware at the other end of the link has also been reconfigured, go
to the far end and reset radio protection settings there.

Digital Microwave Corporation

Chapter 4. Setting and Changing


Radio Configurations

Using the LMT to Configure Radio Terminals


After you install a SPECTRUM II Microwave Radio System, you need to
configure the radios at both ends of the link. The LMT Configure Radios
function makes it easy for you to set and dynamically change radio configuration
parameters:
Configuration tab dialog
boxes are introduced in
"More About Using
Configuration Tab Dialog
Boxes" on page 4-5, and are
described in detail in "Setting
and Changing Radio
Parameters" on page 4-6.

With the LMT, you can configure the near end and far end radios
simultaneously. Some parameter settings are hardware-dependent and are preestablished for you based on actual installed equipment; for example, radio
type, radio frequency and band, and bit rate. Other radio configuration
parameters can be set, such as associated relay fault conditions or event
assignments, BER thresholds, tributary fault alert settings, and more.
Easy-to-use configuration tab dialog boxes guide you through the configuration
process.

When you are through setting radio parameters, you can instruct the LMT to
send the new configurations to the two radios. Radio configuration data is used
to control radio operation and is stored in the Configuration Card housed in
each IDU.

Convert a 3.x Config File utility enables you to use your existing configuration
files for near end and far end radio configuration and combine them into one
new LMT 4.01 configuration file format.

If you want, you can print radio configuration data or save it to file for
archival purposes or for future use in radio configuration.

This chapter provides step-by-step instructions for building, sending, saving, and
printing radio configuration data.

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Chapter 4. Setting and Changing Radio Configurations

Configuration Methods You Can Use


You can build radio configurations in one of four ways. You can display and
change current parameter settings obtained from the radios. You can open an
existing configuration file and use it as a template for setting configuration
parameters for a SPECTRUM II radio of the same radio type, frequency band,
and data rate capacity. Or you can select the Convert a 3.x Config File to
combine existing radio configuration files into LMT 4.01 format. Lastly, start
from scratch by creating a new configuration format.method you want to use
from the Configure Radios window illustrated below.

You can use the LMT to build


radio configurations:
Starting from current
configuration data stored in
the radios; or
Starting from a configuration
file 'template'; or

NOKIA

Converting a LMT 3.x Config


File to LMT 4.x format.
Starting from scratch

Selecting a Configuration Method from the Configure Radios Window

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Local Maintenance Terminal User Guide

Here is more on the four methods available for terminal configuration.


Choose this button

To base radio configuration on

Get Config from Radios

A radios current configuration, stored in the IDU.


When you select this configuration method, the LMT
displays existing radio configuration detail for both
the near end and far end radios. The first time you
configure a radio, the current radio configuration
contains default values preset by the factory before
shipping.

Open a Config File

Parameter settings defined in an existing


configuration file. After you select the configuration
file you want to use, the LMT gets and displays these
values for the two radios. You might want to use this
configuration method when you have a number of
radios to set up with essentially the same parameter
values.

Convert a 3.x Config File

Converts two existing LMT 3.x configuration files


containing parameter settings for near and far end
radio configuration. After you select the near and far
end configuration files you want to use, the Convert a
3.x Config File conversion feature combines them
into one LMT 4.01 configuration file.

Create a New Config

New configuration data you create and optionally


save to file or send to radios.

Choosing a Configuration Method


The first task in the radio configuration process is to select the configuration
method you want to use. Regardless of the configuration method you choose:

If the LMT is currently connected to only the near end radio, you are
limited to modifying and sending configuration information to the near end
radio until a link with the far end radio is established.

If the LMT is not connected to either radio, you are limited to opening and
changing an existing configuration file, or creating a new file.

If the LMT cannot access required standard frequency and custom


frequency data sources, a display message notifies you of this condition and
suggests re-installing LMT software.

To Get Configuration Data from the Radios


1.

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Click the Configure Radios button at the bottom of the Link Status
window, or choose Configure Radios from the Go To pulldown
menu on any LMT window.

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Chapter 4. Setting and Changing Radio Configurations

2.

When the Configure Radios window appears, click the Get Config
From Radios button. A tabbed series of dialog boxes appear populated
with values obtained from the near end and far end radios.

To Open an Existing Configuration File


Radio configuration information is saved to file according to high band/low band
designations. When you open a configuration file, the LMT determines whether
the radio you are connected to (the near end radio) is the low band or high band
radio within the link. The LMT then populates configuration tab windows
accordingly.
If you open a configuration file when you are not connected to a radio, the LMT
automatically assigns the low band information to the near end radio. In addition,
Channel Plan, Channel, Bit Rate, Tributary Settings, and Attenuation Level field
parameters cannot be modified.
To open a configuration file:
1.

Click the Configure Radios button at the bottom of the Link Status
window, or choose Configure Radios from the Go To pulldown
menu on any LMT window.

2.

When the Configure Radios window appears, click the Open a


Config File button.

3.

When the Open Configuration File dialog box appears, specify the
drive and directory where your configuration files are located. Then scroll
the list of associated configuration files and click the one you want to use.
When you are through, click OK to close the dialog box and display tab
dialog boxes populated with configuration file parameter settings.

Warning: When you open a configuration file, the LMT compares current
parameter settings for the IDU you are connected to via cable or
modem to corresponding values obtained from the file. Should
discrepancies exist between the two sources with respect to radio
type, frequency, or bit rate, the LMT notifies you of this situation and
uses default values to populate these fields.
When using an existing configuration file to configure link radios,
make sure the configuration file you select has been defined for a
radio of the same radio type, frequency, and bit rate.
The format of the configuration file has been changed in LMT 4.x. If
you attempt to open a configuration file created in an earlier version
of the LMT, a message informs you that the LMT is unable to read
the corresponding file. In this event, either get the radio configuration
from the radio or create a new configuration file.

To Create a New Configuration


Before you choose to create a new configuration, make sure the LMT is
connected to the IDU you want to use as a template:

4-4

1.

Click the Configure Radios button at the bottom of the Link Status
window, or choose Configure Radios from the Go To pulldown
menu on any LMT window.

2.

When the Configure Radios window appears, click the Create a New
Config button.

Digital Microwave Corporation

Local Maintenance Terminal User Guide

3.

LMT tab dialog boxes appear on your computer screen, ready for you to
build a new configuration. Proceed with this task as described in Setting
and Changing Radio Parameters starting on page 4-6.

More About Using Configuration Tab Dialog Boxes


The LMT Configure Radios window provides you with easy access to five
tab dialog boxes used for setting associated parameter values.

Five tab dialog boxesLink,


Relays, Tributaries,
Protection, and Other
arrange radio configuration
parameters into logical data
groupings. All you need to do
to configure your link is set or
change these parameters and
send resulting values to the
radios at each end of the link.

Configuration Tab Dialog Boxes Step You Through


the Configuration Process

This tab dialog

Is used for

Link

Setting Link ID, Site Name, and Radio Name values,


and for determining radio transmit and receive
frequencies.

Relays

Optionally specifying a maximum of four relay fault


conditions or events to be tracked and activated by an
IDU.

Tributaries

Enabling and disabling E1/E3 and DS1/DS3 tributary


(traffic) fault alerts, and for defining line interface
options for enabled DS1/DS3 tributaries.

Protection

Optionally setting transmitter/receiver preferences for


protected radios only.

Other

Setting BER thresholds and attenuation levels, for


enabling/disabling AIS signaling, and for specifying
DMC Net and orderwire address information.

You can access and complete tab dialog boxes sequentially, or move between
them in any order you like. The LMT insures that all required parameters have
been set for the near end and far end radios before it lets you send the

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Chapter 4. Setting and Changing Radio Configurations

configurations to the radios. When you are ready to exit the Configure Radios
window, click the Close button.

Setting and Changing Radio Parameters


The actual task of setting radio configuration parameters is essentially the same
across configuration methods. For instructional purposes, we will start with the
Link tab dialog box, then move sequentially through the remaining tab dialogs.
You can access the configuration tabs and set parameter values in any order you
like.
Note: Regardless of the configuration method you choose, the LMT
automatically populates the Bit Rate, Radio Type, and High
Band/Low Band fields in the Link tab dialog with corresponding
1
values it reads from the radios. These are display-only fields.

Completing the Link Tab Dialog Box


Use the Link tab dialog box shown below to set or change some link-related
parameters including Link ID, channel plan, and reference low band channel,
and some radio-specific parameters including the site and radio names for each
end of the link.

An Example of the Link Tab Dialog Box

You can use the Protection Settings function to change the radio type for the near end radio. For more
information on this task, see "Chapter 3. Changing a Radio's Protection Settings."

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Local Maintenance Terminal User Guide

More About Link Parameters You Can Set or Change


Here is more about the parameters you can set or change in the Link tab dialog
box.
Use this field

To select or enter this data

Link ID

A code used to ensure that a radio transmitter only


locks onto the corresponding receiver at the far end
of the link. The Link ID must be the same for both
ends of the link. Valid link IDs range from 1 through
255.

Channel Plan

The channel plan or sub-band the radios operate


within. Field contents consist of channel plan name,
frequency band, T/R spacing, and bit rate.
Radios are licensed to operate within a certain
frequency band. Each frequency band is organized
into specific sub-bands (called channel plans). Each
channel plan encompasses a specific frequency range.
The Transceiver ID and Personality Card of a radio
determine which channel plans are available to that
radio.

Low Band Channel

Within the selected channel plan, the specific low


band channel you want the LMT to use to configure
the link. Once you select the low band channel, the
LMT sets the high band channel for you
automatically.

Site Name

An optional descriptor used to specify the physical


location of a radio terminal.

Radio Name

An optional descriptor used to identify a specific


radio terminal.

To Set or Change Link Parameters


From the Link tab dialog box:

300-610007-001

1.

Type an integer from 1 to 255 in the Link ID field.

2.

Click the down arrow next to the Channel Plan selection field to list the
channel plans available for the frequency band in which these specific
radios operate. Then click the desired channel plan. Your selection is
inserted automatically in the Channel Plan field.

3.

Click the down arrow next to the Low Band Channel selection field to
list available low band channels for the channel plan you selected in step 2.
Then click the desired channel. Once again, your selection is inserted
automatically in the Low Band Channel selection field. High Band and
Low Band TX and RX fields are recalculated and updated automatically
by the LMT.

4.

(Optional). Type a site descriptor for this radio terminal in the Site Name
field. Enter a maximum of 32 alphanumeric characters.

5.

(Optional). Type a name for this radio terminal in the Radio Name field.
Enter a maximum of 32 alphanumeric characters.

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Chapter 4. Setting and Changing Radio Configurations

6.

Perform steps 1 through 5 for the other radio terminal in the link.

Completing the Relays Tab Dialog Box


SPECTRUM II radios provide four Form C relay outputs per terminal for
connection to an external fault reporting system. You can set each relay to
operate under a specific fault condition or event, as assigned by the LMT. When
the corresponding fault condition or event occurs, the relay closes. Connections
for alarm relays are located on the DB37 connector labeled "ALARM" on the
IDU front panel.
A maximum of four relay fault conditions or events can be optionally tracked
and activated by each terminal. Use the Relays tab dialog box shown below to
configure relay assignments.

An Example of the Relays Tab Dialog Box

About Available Fault Condition and Event Settings


The following table describes the fault condition and event settings available for
selection in each of the Relays selection fields. Relay settings do not need to be
identical for both radios in a link.
This condition or event

Is triggered when

BER Fault

The set BER alarm threshold has been exceeded.


A bit error condition exists. The problem can be
on either the near end or far end radio.
Bit error rate measures the amount of bits in error
per a fixed amount of bits transmitted/received.
An excessive bit error rate can be caused by
factors such as heavy rain fading, obstacles in the
transmission path, problems with the antenna feed
or wave guide, or problems in the IDU or ODU
electronics on both sides.

Cable Fault

4-8

The cables between the IDU and ODU are

Digital Microwave Corporation

Local Maintenance Terminal User Guide

disconnected, damaged, shorted, or improperly


terminated.

This condition or event

Is triggered when

Deframe Fault

A problem in the ODU makes it unable to decode


the data being transmitted over the link.

DMC Net

The relay is being used by DMC Net to control


some external piece of equipment.

Force Close

A user wants to temporarily disable fault alerts on


this relay, perhaps when maintenance is being
done on associated user termination equipment.
The relay is kept closed, with no fault conditions
tracked or activated.

Force Open

A user wants the corresponding relay kept open.


No fault conditions are tracked or activated. The
Force Open and Unused status settings are
identical in function.

IDU Fault

The IDU detects a failure in either the transmit or


receive circuits. The IDU Fault is a summed fault
that monitors several hardware points.
An IDU Fault may also result from the absence
or distortion of ODU input to the IDU
electronics. In this case, the IDU Fault is
accompanied by a BER Fault, indicating a
problem with the receive signal.

300-610007-001

Input Fault

Expected traffic is not detected.

Major Fault

A catastrophic fault condition occurs in a radio


terminal that results in a loss of traffic across the
link. (On a protected radio terminal, the backup
circuitry would be placed in service automatically
at this point. If the backup circuits can correct the
problem, the fault condition is reported as a
Minor Fault.)

Minor Fault

A guarded fault condition has occurred in a


radio terminal. A Minor Fault condition may or
may not be associated with loss of traffic or
downtime (loss of tributary input is reported as a
minor fault although loss of traffic does occur).
Some other examples of minor faults are the IDU
Fan Fault and the ODU Temperature Fault.

ODU Fault

A failure occurs in the Local Oscillator


(Synthesizer) or other component of the ODU,
indicating something is wrong with the
transmittal or receipt of data.

Far End Fault

Any fault condition is detected at the far end of


the link.

Rx Fault

Any general receiver fault condition is


encountered. For example, when a cable fault or a
loss of frame alignment has been detected.

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Chapter 4. Setting and Changing Radio Configurations

This condition or event

Is triggered when

Tx Fault

Any general transmitter fault condition is


encountered. For example, the Link ID does not
match on each end of the link, or a loss of DC
power has occurred, or the ODU oscillator
current is out of range.

Unused

This setting signifies that the relay is not in use.

To Optionally Set or Change Relays Parameters


From the Relays tab dialog box:

4-10

1.

Click the down arrow next to the Relay 1 selection field to list available
fault condition and event settings. Then click the desired setting. Your
selection is inserted in the Relay 1 selection field.

2.

Where desired, set fault condition or event values in the Relay 2, Relay 3,
and Relay 4 selection fields for this radio.

3.

Optionally perform steps 1 and 2 for the other radio terminal in the link.

Digital Microwave Corporation

Local Maintenance Terminal User Guide

Completing the Tributaries Tab Dialog Box


Tributary configurations such
as 2 x E1, 4 x E1, and 2 x
DS1 identify the number of
tributaries, or ports, available
on a radio terminal, along
with the number of bits
transmitted per second.

Microwave radios have connection points for a varying number of input and output
tributaries, depending on the traffic capacity of the radio. This is where base station
equipment, switches, and multiplexers are connected. SPECTRUM II radios are
available in 2, 4, 8, and 16 tributary configurations. Some or all of these tributaries
can be used for sending and receiving traffic.
Use the Tributaries tab dialog to enable or disable fault alerts on supported radio
tributaries. For DS1/DS3 systems, you also use this tab dialog to define associated
line interface options. Configuration procedures and supporting dialog boxes vary
depending on whether you are configuring E1/E3 or DS1/DS3 tributaries. In almost
all cases, tributary fault alert settings are configured the same for both ends of a link.
An example of the Tributaries tab dialog box displayed for 16xE1 systems
follows. An example of the Tributaries dialog box displayed for DS1/DS3
systems is available in "To Optionally Set or Change DS1/DS3 Tributary
Parameters" on page 4-13.

An Example of the Tributaries Tab Dialog Box Displayed for 16xE1 Systems

Both versions of the Tributaries tab dialog box present two Tributary
Settings categories for each radio: Enabled and Disabled. Each category
displays two columns:

The first column contains individual buttons for tributaries 1 through 8.

The second column contains individual buttons for tributaries 9 through 16.

On lower capacity radios, only the tributaries available for the corresponding bit
rate are presented. For example, a 4E1 bit rate radio configuration results in
display of a total of four tributary buttons in the appropriate Tributary
Settings categories.
The first time you configure a
radio, the Tributaries tab
dialog box displays with all
supported tributaries set to
Disabled.

300-610007-001

An enabled tributary button is highlighted in green. A disabled tributary button is


grayed out. Disable fault alerts on any unused tributaries to avoid getting unwanted
fault alerts. When traffic is not detected on a tributary with an enabled fault alert
status, the INPUT LED on the IDU front panel is lit and one or more messages are
sent to the LMT Faults report.

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Chapter 4. Setting and Changing Radio Configurations

About Tributary Parameters You Can Set or Change


You can set or change some or all of the following configuration parameters for
each tributary supported by near end and far end radios.
Use this field

To select or enter this data

Tributary Settings/Status

Per tributary, the desired fault alert status (Enabled


or Disabled).

Encoding (Scheme)

Per enabled DS1 tributary, the desired encoding


scheme (channel line coding format). Available
options include:

AMI (Alternate Mark Inversion; often referred to


as bipolar coding): A line coding format used in
DS1 transmission systems. Zeros are coded as the
absence of a pulse and ones are coded alternately
as positive or negative pulses.

B8ZS (Binary 8 Zero Substitution): A line coding


format in DS1 transmission systems. For every
string of 8 zeros, bipolar code is substituted
according to the following rules:
If the immediate preceding pulse is of (-)
polarity, then each group of 8 zeros is coded
as 000-+0+-.
If the immediate preceding pulse is of (+)
polarity, then each group of 8 zeros is coded
as 000+-0-+.

LBO (Cable Length)

Per enabled DS1/DS3 tributary, the length of the cable


(line build-out distance) between the data source and
the IDU:

LBO choices for DS1 tributaries include:


0 - 133 ft.
133 - 266 ft.
266 - 399 ft.
399 - 533 ft.
533 - 655 ft.

LBO choices for DS3 tributaries include:


0 - 120 ft.
120 - 450 ft.

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Local Maintenance Terminal User Guide

To Optionally Set or Change E1/E3 Tributary Parameters


Use the Tributaries tab dialog box shown in "Completing the Tributaries Tab
Dialog Box" on page 4-11 to set or change the fault alert status for E1/E3
tributaries. From this Tributaries tab dialog box:
1.

To enable or disable fault alerts for a given radio tributary, click the
numbered button for that tributary. Clicking a tributary button toggles its
fault alert setting from the Enabled category to the Disabled category,
and vice-versa.

2.

To enable or disable additional tributaries for this radio, repeat step 1.

3.

Optionally perform steps 1 and 2 for the other radio terminal in the link.

To Optionally Set or Change DS1/DS3 Tributary


Parameters
Use the Tributaries tab dialog box shown below to optionally set or change the
fault alert status and/or line interface options for DS1/DS3 tributaries.

An Example of the Tributaries Tab Dialog Box for DS1/DS3 Systems

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Chapter 4. Setting and Changing Radio Configurations

From the Tributaries tab dialog box:


1.

Click the Change Settings button for the radio you are configuring. The
Near End/Far End Line Interface Options dialog box appears as
shown below.

An Example of the Line Interface Options


Dialog Box Displayed for the Far End Radio

The dialog box displays the configuration parameters currently set for each
DS1/DS3 tributary. To set or change parameter settings for a given
tributary, click the corresponding Tributary button. You can also click
Cancel to return to the Tributaries tab dialog box.
2.

When the following Line Interface Options dialog box appears for the
selected tributary, optionally set or change tributary parameters.

An Example of the Line Interface Options


Dialog Box for a Given Tributary

4-14

a.

From the Status selection box, click Enable or Disable to set the
fault alert status for the selected tributary.

b.

From the Encoding selection box, click AMI or B8ZS to select the
desired DS1 encoding scheme.

c.

From the LBO selection box, select the desired cable length.

Digital Microwave Corporation

Local Maintenance Terminal User Guide

d.
3.

4.

Then click OK to keep your selections or Cancel to discard them.

The Near End/Far End Line Interface Options dialog box reappears,
updated with any Status, Encoding, and LBO changes you have kept.
You have the following options here:

Set or change status and line interface option parameters for another
DS1/DS3 tributary as described in steps 2 and 3 above; or

Click OK to apply all of your changes and return to the Tributaries


tab dialog box.

Optionally perform steps 1 through 4 for the other radio in the link.

Completing the Protection Tab Dialog Box


For SPECTRUM II radios configured for protected operation, you can specify
which transmitter and/or receiver you prefer to remain online during normal
radio operation. You may prefer a specific device because it has additional
power or some other enhanced feature. Should a failure in the preferred device
cause a switch to the backup circuitry, the backup circuitry remains online only
until the problem with the preferred device is resolved, at which point the system
switches radio activity back to the preferred device.
For example, assume transmitter A fails on a protected radio and transmitter B is
placed online. Also assume that you previously set a Transmitter 'A'
preference for this radio. Accordingly, transmitter B remains active only until the
problem on transmitter A is fixed. At that point, transmitter A is returned to
online status. If you had not set a Transmitter 'A' preference for this radio,
transmitter B would continue handling traffic until a failure in its in-service
electronics caused a switch to transmitter A.
Use the Protection tab dialog box shown below to optionally set or change
transmitter/receiver preferences.

Protection settings do not


need to be the same for the
radios at each end of a link.

An Example of the Protection Tab Dialog Box

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Chapter 4. Setting and Changing Radio Configurations

Note: The first time you configure a protected radio, the Protection tab
dialog box is displayed with all Transmitter/Receiver Preference
selection boxes set to a default value of No Preference.

About the Preferences You Can Set or Change


The following preference options determine how your protected radio
configuration operates when both sets of radio circuitry are available.
Setting this preference

Causes a protected radio to

No Preference

Continue transmitting or receiving on the


currently active device until a failure occurs.

Transmitter 'A'

Always return transmitter A to an online


status when this device is available.

Transmitter 'B'

Always return transmitter B to an online


status when this device is available.

Receiver 'A'

Always return receiver A to an online status


when this device is available.

Receiver 'B'

Always return receiver B to an online status


when this device is available.

To Optionally Set or Change Protection Parameters


From the Protection tab dialog box:

4-16

1.

To set or change a transmitter preference, click the desired option (No


Preference, Transmitter 'A', or Transmitter 'B') in the Transmitter
Preference selection box.

2.

To set or change a receiver preference, click the desired option (No


Preference, Receiver 'A', or Receiver 'B') in the Receiver
Preference selection box.

3.

Optionally perform steps 1 and 2 for the other radio in the link.

Digital Microwave Corporation

Local Maintenance Terminal User Guide

Completing the Other Tab Dialog Box


Other radio parameters you can optionally set or change include DMC Net and
orderwire addresses, AIS enabling, signal attenuation, high and low BER
threshold levels, and descriptive comments. Use the Other tab dialog box shown
below to set or change these parameters.

An Example of the Other Tab Dialog Box

About Other Parameters You Can Set or Change


The following table describes the inputs and selections you can make on the
Other tab dialog box.
Use this field

To select or enter this data

Network

The DMC Net address, if your link is being


monitored by DMC Net. The DMC Net address
helps the network manager locate a specific
radio in the network and must be unique for
each terminal on the subnet. Valid DMC Net
addresses range from 256 through 1279.

Orderwire

The Engineering Orderwire (EOW) station


address number assigned to this radio. Valid
EOW station addresses range from 0 to 9999.
The EOW feature of SPECTRUM II radios
provides for voice communications between the
near end and far end terminals, without
impacting normal radio traffic. The EOW
feature uses digital bandwidth not normally used
for primary transmissions. In multi-hop radio
systems, the orderwires of two or more terminals
at one site can be "daisy-chained" together to
permit communication among all the stations.

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Chapter 4. Setting and Changing Radio Configurations

Use this field

To select or enter this data

Orderwire (Cont'd)

The IDU front panel includes a handset


connector for physically attaching a telephone
for EOW voice communication. Dialing the
orderwire extension from one location causes
both the IDU and the telephone connected to it
to ring at the other location.

Disable AIS

AIS (Alarm Inhibit Signal) status:

When AIS is enabled, a radio fault resulting


in a loss of traffic on one or more tributaries
causes a signal to be inserted in associated
E1/E3 or DS1/DS3 tributaries and
propagated to downstream equipment to
inhibit any related alarms.

When AIS is disabled, a loss of traffic alarm


occurring on one E1/E3 or DS1/DS3
tributary is propagated to all downstream
equipment on the affected tributary.

The first time you configure a radio, the AIS


option defaults to enabled.
Attenuation Level

The desired adjustment in transmission signal


strength. A decrease in attenuation level causes
an increase in power level. An increase in
attenuation level causes a decrease in power.
You might want to decrease the attenuation level
during a storm, or increase it when the radio is
transmitting above the licensed power level.
Attenuation is measured in decibels (dB). The
attenuation range varies based on radio
frequency. The LMT displays valid attenuation
level settings for the radio to which your PC or
laptop is attached.

BER Threshold

The high and/or low bit error rate (BER)


thresholds. The BER value you set for the low
threshold specifies when the BER LED displays
in amber. The BER value you set for the high
threshold specifies when the BER LED displays
in red. You can disable either one of these two
thresholds

Comments

Any additional information you want to provide


about the radio you are configuring.

Attenuation level adjustments can only be made on VCO-Multiplier SPECTRUM II radios.

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To Optionally Set or Change Other Parameters


From the Other tab dialog box:

300-610007-001

1.

To specify a DMC Net address for the radio you are configuring, type a
value from 256 to 1279 in the Network field.

2.

To assign a phone line address to this IDU, type a value from 0 to 9999 in
the Orderwire field. We recommend that orderwire number be unique for
each radio terminal.

3.

To enable or disable AIS signaling on this radio, click the Disable AIS
toggle box as appropriate to select or deselect this status.

4.

To adjust the transmission signal strength for new architecture


(VCO-Multiplier) radio terminals, click the down arrow next to the
Attenuation Level selection field to list the dB range available for this
radio. Then click the desired attenuation level. Your selection is inserted
automatically in the Attenuation Level field.

5.

To adjust BER threshold levels, click the down arrow next to the BER
Threshold selection field to list available Hi/Lo threshold combinations.
Then click the desired setting. Once again, your selection is inserted
automatically in the BER Threshold field for this radio.

6.

Type any related comments you have in the Comments field. Enter a
maximum of 32 characters.

7.

Optionally perform steps 1 through 6 for the other radio in the link.

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Chapter 4. Setting and Changing Radio Configurations

Sending Configurations to Link Radios


When you are through setting or changing radio configuration values, you can
send the new configurations to the radios at each end of the link. Radio
configuration parameters are stored on the Configuration Card housed in each
IDU.
Before the LMT executes a send request, it verifies that all configuration
parameters have been properly set for the near end and far end radios. If any
required parameter values are missing, or if any existing settings are invalid, you
are notified of such discrepancies and prompted to correct them.
When you send new configurations to a protected radio, the LMT locks the near
end transmit side and the far end receiver side online to prevent data corruption
should switching occur during the send process. At the conclusion of the send
process, the LMT automatically restores the near end transmit side and the far
end receiver side to the state it was in prior to sending the configurations to the
radios.
Warning: Traffic is temporarily interrupted when you send a new
frequency specification to the radios at either end of the link.

To Send Configuration Settings to the Radios


1.

Click the Send to Radios button on any Configure Radios tab dialog
box.

2.

A dialog box appears warning you that sending new configurations to the
radios overwrites current radio configurations. If you are sending a new
frequency to the radios, the dialog box also warns that traffic will be
temporarily interrupted:

Click Yes to send the configurations anyway; or

Click No to abort the send request.

When you click Yes, a message appears confirming that the new
configurations have been sent to the near end and far end radios.
3.

4-20

(Optional). Before you click Close to exit the main Configure Radios
window, you can change your mind and restore the previous radios
configurations:
a.

Click Undo Send. A message warns you that restoring the previous
radio configurations overwrites current radio configurations. You are
also warned if restoring the previous configurations results in a
change in frequency.

b.

Click Yes to restore radio configurations anyway or No to abort your


Undo request.

Digital Microwave Corporation

Local Maintenance Terminal User Guide

Saving Radio Configurations to File


If you want to, you can save new or changed radio configuration data to file.
You may want a copy of configuration settings for archive purposes. Or you may
want to use the same configuration data later on to configure another radio of the
same radio type, frequency band, and bit rate.

To Save New or Changed Radio Configurations to File


1.

Click the Save to File button on any Configure Radios tab dialog box.

2.

When the Save Configuration File dialog box appears, type a name for
a new configuration file in the File Name field, or scroll the list of
existing configuration files and click the one you just changed. Where
appropriate, select the drive and directory where you want to store the file.
Then click OK to save the file or Cancel to abort your save request. When
you click OK, a message confirms that your file is saved.
An example of the Save Configuration File dialog box displayed for
Windows 3.1 follows.

A Windows 3.1 Example of the Dialog Box Used to Save Currently


Displayed Radio Configurations to File

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Chapter 4. Setting and Changing Radio Configurations

Printing Radio Configurations


The LMT print facility lets you print radio configuration data either from the
screen or from a configuration file.

To Print the Current Configuration


1.

From the Configure Radios window, choose Print from the File
pulldown menu.

2.

When the Print dialog box appears, click The current configuration
print option. Then click OK to print all five tab dialog boxes for the link
you are currently working on. You can also click Cancel to abort your
print request.
An example of the Print dialog box displayed for Windows 3.1 follows.

A Windows 3.1 Example of the Print Dialog Box

To Print a Configuration File


1.

From any LMT window, choose Print from the File pulldown menu.

2.

When the Print dialog box appears, click the A File print option. Then
click OK.

3.

When the Print File dialog box appears, specify the drive and directory
where your configuration files are located. Then scroll the list of associated
configuration files and click the one you want to print. When you are
through, click OK to close the dialog box and print the selected file. You
can also click Cancel to abort your print request.
An example of the Print File dialog box displayed for Windows 3.1
follows.

A Windows 3.1 Example of the Print File Dialog Box

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Deleting a Configuration File


You delete configuration files just as you would any other file on your system.

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Chapter 4. Setting and Changing Radio Configurations

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Chapter 5. Monitoring Your Link with


LMT Reports

Getting a Link-Wide View


The LMTs sophisticated yet easy-to-understand online reporting feature makes
link-wide visibility into current system conditions a reality. Consolidated near
end and far end reporting provides an integrated look at dynamically updated
diagnostic, status, and performance information that lets you monitor and
manage radio and link operation from your PC or laptop. Ten online reports are
available in two report categories:

Fault & Performance


Management

The five reports in this category reveal vital


information about how your link is operating
currently, including active fault conditions,
received signal strength, link performance, and
relay and external fault status.

Current Radio Settings

The five reports in this category present a ready


inventory of radio software part numbers and
relevant configuration settings (tributary fault
alert settings, DS1/DS3 line interface options,
relay configurations, and more).

Use the LMT Faults & Reports function to monitor real time radio and link
status and performance data. You can view, print, and save LMT reports, reset
selective report data, and log fault conditions to file.

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Chapter 5. Monitoring Your Link with LMT Reports

LMT online reports help keep


you current on radio and link
conditions

An Example of Report Tabs Displayed for the Faults and Performance


Management Report Category

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Local Maintenance Terminal User Guide

More About LMT Report Categories


You access LMT report categories from the Faults & Reports window shown
below.

The LMT Faults & Reports Window

When you select a report category, associated LMT tab report windows become
available for your viewing.
This report category

Makes this information available

Fault & Performance


Management

The Faults report alerts you to fault conditions


in the link, as they occur.
The RSSI report keeps you informed about
received signal strength.
The Performance report tracks and measures
link performance.
The Relays report lists IDU relay assignments
and states.
The External report shows the current state of
radio external fault points.

Current Radio Settings

The IDU Software report lists part numbers for


active and inactive IDU operating software.
The Boot & ODU report lists part numbers for
IDU boot software and ODU operating software.
The Tributaries report shows the fault alert
settings configured for radio tributaries.

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Chapter 5. Monitoring Your Link with LMT Reports

This report category

Makes this information available

Current Radio Settings (Contd) The Line Options report displays the line
interface options defined for enabled DS1/DS3
radio tributaries. The Line Options report tab
is only presented for DS1/DS3 radios.
The Other report displays DMC Net and
orderwire address information for the two
radios, along with relay tracking assignments.

Fault & Performance Management Reports


Fault & Performance
Management reports keep
you abreast of link and radio
problems and help you
determine their cause.

When a fault occurs, you need to determine its extent and location. As with any
microwave system, troubleshooting is a logical process of fault location
determination. Malfunctions can occur in the equipment at the near end or far end of
the link, or in the transmission path between the two radios.
While various indicators are available on IDU front panels to aid in fault isolation,
LMT Fault & Performance Management reports provide additional information
to help you localize, diagnose, and resolve link and radio problems. Category reports
display real time data on active fault conditions, received signal strength, radio
performance, and relay and external fault assignments and states that make it possible
for you to diagnose the complete system from either end of the link.

The Faults Report


The Faults report gives you quick and accurate information about current link
conditions. The report lists faults as they occur, either since you started this
LMT session or since you last reset Faults data during the session. Faults are
displayed in date and time sequence, from earliest to most recent. A line entry
appears when a fault occurs, and again when the fault is cleared.

You can also have fault data


logged to a file. For
information about starting
and stopping file logging, see
"Logging Fault Data to File"
on page 5-16.

An Example of the Faults Report

You normally check the Faults report after an LED lights up on an IDU front
panel to get more detail about the corresponding fault condition.

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Chapter 5. Monitoring Your Link with LMT Reports

The RSSI Report


The RSSI report displays per-radio statistics on received signal strength. For
protected systems, separate measurements are presented for both the A side and
the B side of a protected pair. The LMT gets reported data from the IDU
software running on each radio.

An Example of the RSSI Report

Received signal strength voltage measurements are shown in dBm (decibels per
milliwatt) for three categories: current signal strength, maximum signal strength,
and minimum signal strength:
Under ideal conditions, a
change in level of 1 dB is
barely perceptible. Increases
or reductions of 3 dB result in
doubling or halving the
power in a circuit. This ratio
is handy to remember when
evaluating power differences.
The corresponding figure for
doubling or halving voltage is
6 dB.

A decibel (dB) is a unit of measure of signal strength, usually the relation


between a transmitted signal and a standard signal source. For example,
6 dB of loss means that there is a 6 dB difference between what arrives
down a communications circuit and what was transmitted by a standard signal
generator.

While the decibel is a unit of comparison, it is useful to have an agreed


reference as a base so that powers, voltages, or sound pressures can be
compared with it. A common practice is to refer powers to 1 milliwatt (1 mW),
indicated by dBm. For example, a level of +3 dBm means that the signal in
question is 3 dB above 1 mW (=2 mW). Similarly, a level of -3 dBm means the
signal is 3 dB below 1 mW (=.5 mW).

The Elapsed Time field indicates the total minutes during which RSSI data has
been collected, which encompasses the interval since RSSI data was last reset.
In association with BER information, reported RSSI statistics can help you
determine whether a given fault condition is internal to the radio or relates to a
path problem. Functional flowcharts available in "Appendix C. Troubleshooting
Charts" provide step-by-step instructions for pinpointing the source of high BER
alarms and low RSSI values. When a fault condition is traced to signal strength,
you may want to adjust the attenuation level. For example, you might decrease
attenuation when the radio is getting a very weak signal or too many
transmission errors are occurring, or increase attenuation when the radio is
transmitting above the licensed power level.

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The Performance Report


The Performance report displays statistics that measure and track link
performance levels. You will probably want to use this report in conjunction
with the Fault and RSSI reports to help determine when poor signal quality is
creating BER alarms or various other types of related fault conditions.

An Example of the Performance Report

Counts are accumulated in the following categories during the current collection
period, which encompasses the interval since Performance data was last reset.

300-610007-001

This statistical category

Displays accumulated counts for

Total Seconds

Total seconds during the current data recording


period.

Available Seconds

Total seconds the radio has been considered


available during the recording period (total of
every unerrored second, every errored second,
and every severely errored second).

Unavailable Seconds

Total seconds the radio has been considered


unavailable during the recording period (total
of every group of 10 consecutive severely
errored seconds and every consecutive severely
errored second thereafter).

Errored Seconds

Any available second that encounters an error.

Severely Errored Seconds

Groupings of less than 10 consecutive seconds


that encounter a BER of 10-3 or higher.

Degraded Minutes

Groupings of 60 available seconds, excluding


severely errored seconds, that have a BER
worse than 10-6.

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Chapter 5. Monitoring Your Link with LMT Reports

The Relays Report


The Relays report shows you the tracking assignments configured for each of
the four IDU relays, along with current relay status.

An Example of the Relays Report

The Open and Closed status indicators mirror the current state of the attached
relays. These indicators have derived meanings, determined by the type of relay
you use. For example, some relays are active when they are open; other relays
are active when they are closed. For a list and description of the fault and status
settings available for relay dedication, see Completing the Relays Tab Dialog
Box in Chapter 4.

The External Report


The External report shows the current state of the eight external fault points on
a radio. External fault points are used to detect and report alarm conditions
generated by equipment that is external to the radio. The radio is used solely to
transport the alarm to a remote location (perhaps to DMC Net). An example of
an external fault point is a door to a shelter that has a switch on it. When the
door is opened, an alarm input is sent to the radio.

An external fault is generated


outside of the radio; the IDU
acts only as a transport
mechanism.

An Example of the External Report

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Local Maintenance Terminal User Guide

Status indicators mirror the current state of the corresponding external fault
points:

An Open status means the external fault point detects an open signal.

A Closed status means the external fault point detects a ground signal.

Status indicators have derived meanings determined by how you wire your
external fault points. For example, some external fault points are active when
they are open; other external fault points are active when they are closed.

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Chapter 5. Monitoring Your Link with LMT Reports

Current Radio Settings Reports


Current Radio Settings
reports let you quickly verify
that configuration settings are
accurate. Check these reports
when tracking down possible
causes of active faults.

The reports in this category give you ready access to pertinent information about the
operational software on the radios, and about current radio configuration settings for
both ends of the link. You can examine the part numbers of resident IDU, ODU, and
Boot software, monitor the fault alert status and line interface options set for radio
tributaries, review DMC Net and orderwire address information, and check IDU
relay assignments.
Two categories of part numbers exist for SPECTRUM II software: new part numbers
and legacy part numbers. Before we describe individual Current Radio Settings
reports, lets have a look at the rationale behind the numbering schemes used for
each category.

What New SPECTRUM II Part Numbers Tell You


Currently, DMC uses two different part numbering schemes for assigning part
numbers to SPECTRUM II software:

One scheme is used for LMT and IDU software.

Another scheme is used for ODU and Boot software.

While both numbering schemes share the same format, nnn-nnnnnn-nnnnnn, the
significance of various groupings of digits vary by scheme type. Certain
segments of the part numbers assigned to LMT/IDU software define software
type, version level, and build number. On the other hand, certain segments of the
part numbers assigned to ODU/Boot software define component class, device
base number, option code, and version level. The following table breaks each
numbering scheme down into its associated segments.

In this PN scheme

These digits

Are used to identify

LMT and IDU

First 3 digits

SPECTRUM II software. Always


equal to 302.

Middle 6 digits

Specific software type:


172101 identifies LMT software.
172201 identifies IDU software.
172301 identifies Channel Plan
software.
172401 identifies Diplexer
software.

Last 6 digits

Revision level and build number:


First 4 digits identify revision level
(0001 - 9999).
Last 2 digits identify build number
(01-99).

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Local Maintenance Terminal User Guide

In this PN scheme

These digits

Are used to identify

ODU and Boot

First 3 digits

SPECTRUM II component class.


Always equal to 084.

Middle 6 digits

Device base number:


342139 identifies Boot software.
342419 identifies ODU software.

Last 6 digits

Option code and version level:


First 3 digits identify option code
(001 - 999).
Last 3 digits identify version level
(001-999).

For example, the part number, 302-172201-060702, identifies SPECTRUM II


IDU software, revision level 6.7, build 2. The part number,
084-342139-005022, identifies SPECTRUM II Boot software, option code 5,
version 2.2.

What Legacy SPECTRUM II Part Numbers Tell


You
Prior to implementing the new SPECTRUM II software numbering schemes
described in the previous section, software part numbers had the same format,
nnn-nnnnnn-nnnnnn, but reflected limited underlying significance. Part number
assignments for ODU and Boot software were essentially done on a random
basis. Part number assignments for LMT and IDU software were somewhat more
formalized. For legacy LMT and IDU software part numbers:
These n digits

Were used to identify

First 9 digits

SPECTRUM II-related software (LMT or IDU). Always


equal to 302-172000.

Last 6 digits

SPECTRUM II software type and revision level:

First 3 digits identify software type:


005 identify LMT software.
030 identify Diplexer software.
006 identify IDU software.
007 - 020 identify Channel Plan software.

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Last 3 digits identify revision level.

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Chapter 5. Monitoring Your Link with LMT Reports

The IDU Software Report


The IDU Software report displays part numbers for resident IDU software. For
protected systems, associated information is presented for both the A side and
the B side of the protected pair.

An Example of the IDU Software Report

Active IDU software is the operational software being used to control the
device now.

Inactive IDU software is a currently unused version of IDU operational


software (either a recently downloaded update you have not activated yet,
or an older software version).

The Boot & ODU Report


The Boot & ODU report displays part numbers for corresponding radio
software. For protected systems, associated information is presented for both the
A side and the B side of the protected pair.

An Example of the Boot and ODU Report

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Boot software

Initializes the IDU, enabling basic communications with the


LMT. At boot-level, the IDU is able to accept IDU software
downloads from the LMT. A radio is non-operational while
at boot level.

ODU oftware

Controls the operation of the ODU, performing functions


such as monitoring radio ambient temperature, automatically
correcting frequency modulation deviations, and detecting
alarms.

The Tributaries Report


The Tributaries report displays fault alert settings currently configured for the
radio tributaries in a link.

An Example of the Tributaries Report

An Enabled status indicates that the tributary is expected to carry traffic.

A Disabled status indicates that the tributary is unused.

When the INPUT LED on an IDU front panel illuminates, check the
Tributaries report to determine if an incorrect configuration setting is causing
the problem. Fault alerts can occur when user traffic is absent on a tributary that
has an enabled status, or when unexpected traffic is detected on a tributary
configured as disabled.

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Chapter 5. Monitoring Your Link with LMT Reports

The Line Options Report


When you enable radio tributaries as part of the configuration process, you select
the encoding scheme for DS1 tributaries and the length of the cable between the
data source and the IDU for DS1/DS3 tributaries. The Line Options report
displays corresponding line interface option settings for enabled DS1/DS3
tributaries.

When you are troubleshooting


traffic problems, check this
report to verify that your lines
are configured correctly.

An Example of the Line Options Report

The Other Report


The Other report shows you the DMC Net and orderwire addresses currently
configured for your radios, along with IDU relay assignments. This report also
identifies radio terminals equipped with the High Power Amplifier (HPA)
option. The HPA increases the signal strength of the SPECTRUM II Microwave
Radio System in areas that require higher than normal transmission power.

When a Relay n fault alert


occurs, check the Other
report to determine the
specific fault or status being
tracked by the relay.

An Example of the Other Report

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Local Maintenance Terminal User Guide

Viewing LMT Online Reports


You access and view LMT reports by report category from the Faults &
Reports window. Category reports can be viewed in any sequence.

To View an LMT Report


1.

Click the Faults & Reports button at the bottom of the Link Status
window, or choose Faults & Reports from the Go To pulldown
menu on any LMT window.1

2.

When the Faults & Reports window appears, select the report category
of interest:

Click Fault & Performance Management to access the tab report


windows available in this report category.

Use the Fault &


Performance
Management window to
view and print corresponding
LMT reports. You can also
log radio fault data to file,
reset report windows, and
save the reports.

Fault & Performance Management Tab Report Windows

Click Current Radio Settings to access the tab report windows


available in this report category.

Use the Current Radio


Settings window to view,
print, and save LMT online
reports in this report
category.

Current Radio Settings Tab Report Windows

When you start the LMT application, the Link Status window notifies you of any active fault conditions. Clicking
the Go to Event Log button on the Link Status window takes you directly to the Faults window.

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Chapter 5. Monitoring Your Link with LMT Reports

3.

To view an online report in the selected report category, click the


associated tab.

4.

When you are through viewing LMT reports in this category, click Close
to return to the Faults & Reports window.

Logging Fault Data to File


After you start the LMT application, fault alerts are automatically captured to the
online Faults report as they occur. You can have fault alerts logged to a file.
Once you start the file logging process, it continues until you stop it. Use the
Start (Stop) Logging toggle button displayed in the Faults tab report
window to initiate or terminate the file logging process.

To Start Logging Fault Data to File


1.

From the Faults tab report window, click the Start Logging button.

2.

The Save As dialog box appears, displaying a default *.log in the File
Name field. Type a different file name if you want, and select the drive
and directory where you want the file stored. Then click OK to close the
dialog box and begin logging fault data to file. You can also click Cancel
to abort your file logging request. When you click OK, a message appears
confirming that fault alerts are being logged to file.
An example of the Save As dialog box displayed for Windows 3.1
follows.

The Dialog Box Used to Establish a Fault Log File

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Local Maintenance Terminal User Guide

To Stop Logging Fault Data to File


From the Faults tab report window, click the Stop Logging button. A
message appears confirming that fault data is no longer being logged to file.

Resetting Report Data


Use the Reset Options button displayed in the Fault & Performance
Management window to optionally reset Fault, RSSI, and Performance
online report data for the near end and far end radios. You determine which
reports you want to reset for each end of the link.
Note: When you reset the Faults report, only the line entries for cleared
faults are removed. Currently active fault conditions continue to be
reported.

To Reset a Report
1.

From the Fault & Performance Management window, click the


Reset Options button.

2.

When the following Reset Options dialog box appears, click the specific
Near End and/or Far End reports you want to reset. Then click Reset to
reset selected reports or Close to abort your reset request.

The Dialog Box Used to Reset Report Data

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Chapter 5. Monitoring Your Link with LMT Reports

Saving LMT Report Categories to File


You can save the online reports in each report category to file. When you do so,
the complete category is saved to file.

To Save Category Reports to File


1.

From the Faults & Reports window, select the report category you want
to save:

Click Fault & Performance Management to save this report


category to file; or

Click Current Radio Settings to save this report category to file.

2.

When the corresponding category window appears, click the Save to File
button.

3.

A Save As dialog box appears, displaying a default name of *.dat2 in the


File Name field. Type a different file name if you want, and select the
drive and directory where you want the file stored. Then click OK to save
report data to file. You can also click Cancel to abort your save request.
When you click OK, a message confirms that all three reports have been
saved to the named file.
An example of the Save As dialog box displayed for the Fault &
Performance Management category follows.

An Example of the Save As Dialog Box

For the Current Radio Settings report category, the File Name field displays a default file name of *.dat.

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Local Maintenance Terminal User Guide

Printing LMT Reports


As you view individual LMT online reports, you can print the report you are
currently viewing, or the entire report category. You can also select and print a
saved report file.

To Print the Displayed Report


1.

From the Faults & Reports window, choose Print from the File
pulldown menu located on the toolbar.

2.

When the Print dialog box appears, click The current report print
option. Then click OK to print the report you are currently viewing. You
can also click Cancel to abort your print request. When you click OK,
report contents are printed and sent to the default printer.
An example of the Print dialog box displayed for Windows 3.1 follows.

An Example of the Print Dialog Box Used

To Print a Report Category


1.

From either the Fault & Performance Management window or the


Current Radio Settings window, choose Print from the File pulldown
menu.

2.

When the Print dialog box appears, click the All reports in category
print option. Then click OK to print all reports in the category you are
currently viewing. You can also click Cancel to abort your print request.
When you click OK, the entire report category is printed and sent to the
default printer.

To Print a Report File

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1.

From any LMT window, choose Print from the File pulldown menu.

2.

When the Print dialog box appears, click the A File print option. Then
click OK.

3.

When the Print File dialog box appears, specify the drive and directory
where your report files are located. Then scroll the list of associated files
and click the one you want to print. When you are through, click OK to
close the dialog box and print the selected file. You can also click Cancel
to abort your print request. When you click OK, report file contents are
printed and sent to the default printer.

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Chapter 5. Monitoring Your Link with LMT Reports

An example of the Print File dialog box displayed for Windows 3.1
follows.

An Example of the Print File Dialog Box

Deleting Log and Report Files


You delete configuration files just as you would any other file on your system.

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Local Maintenance Terminal User Guide

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Chapter 6. Running Loopback Tests

When You Need to Verify System Operation


The LMT loopback testing feature lets you test the input/output cables on
externally-attached equipment, the near end and far end radios, and the entire
microwave link for proper operation. Loopback tests are initiated on the near end
radio.
Four types of loopback tests are available:

The Input loopback test checks the input/output cables and connections
between attached external equipment and the near end IDU.

The Digital loopback tests check the digital circuits (modem and mux) of
the near end IDU.

The Local loopback tests check the IF (Intermediate Frequency), modem,


and multiplex circuits of the near end IDU.

The Remote loopback tests check all the circuits of both radios at either
end of a link, including the antennas and the path in between. You run these
tests to confirm the existence of an operational transmission path between
the two radio terminals, and to verify individual tributaries.
(If the LMT is connected to only the near end radio, Remote loopback
testing is unavailable.)

LMT loopback tests provide a valuable troubleshooting tool for isolating link or
radio problems to a specific transmitter or receiver, to external equipment, or to
the transmission path itself. You will want to run various LMT loopback tests
after you have installed a new SPECTRUM II Microwave Radio System, or
anytime you need radio or link diagnostics.

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Chapter 6. Running Loopback Tests

Using Internal Versus External Test Patterns


The Digital, Local, and
Remote loopback tests can
use a test pattern that either
originates internal to the
IDU, or that is injected into
the system from an external
test source.
The Input loopback test
uses externally-generated
input onlyeither a test
pattern or other data
supplied by the attached
user equipment.

Using a radio tributary, LMT loopback tests send test patterns through either the near
end IDU or the entire system, then verify the accuracy of the data being sent or
received. You can run most LMT loopback tests using either internal or external test
data:

Internal loopback tests let you verify error-free radio or link operation without
the need for any special test equipment. These tests use digital pattern
generator/checker test circuitry built right into the IDU. The internal loopback
pattern generator produces a test pattern used to confirm correct operation of all
circuitry in the IDU. Test results are captured and reported by the LMT.

External loopback tests use test patterns coming in from external user
equipment. The LMT does not capture or report per tributary error statistics for
external loopback tests. The number of error occurrences, if any, are captured
and handled by the external source.
External pattern generator/checkers specifically designed and manufactured for
evaluating radio links are commonly available. You can use these external test
sets for establishing normal operating parameters and bit error rate (BER) levels
for a SPECTRUM II system.

Types of LMT Loopback Tests


You select, start, and stop LMT loopback tests from the Loopback Tests
window shown below.

The Loopback Tests Window, Used for Starting and Stopping LMT Loopback
Testing

You can run some or all LMT loopback tests, in any sequence. Test selections
are described in more detail in the table that follows.

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Local Maintenance Terminal User Guide

Run this test

To verify this segment of your link

Input

The input/output cables from external user equipment to


the near end IDU. Only external loopback testing is
available. When you run this test, the data and recovered
clock from the attached user equipment are regenerated
within the IDU and sent back out to the user equipment.
Only traffic on a selected tributary is affected.

A Diagram of the Input Loopback Test


Digital

The digital circuits of the near end IDU. Digital loopback


tests can use either internally- or externally-generated test
patterns to verify data as it passes through the IDU digital
circuitry. When you run a Digital loopback test on an
online system, it takes down all radio tributaries. In the
case of:
1. Protected terminal

Internal DigitalLoopback tests do not effect


any tributaries.

2.

External DigitalLoopback tests effect all


tributaries.
Non-protected terminal

Internal and External DigitalLoopback tests


effect all tributaries.

A Diagram of the Internal Digital Loopback Test

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Chapter 6. Running Loopback Tests

A Diagram of the External Digital Loopback Test

Run this test

To verify this segment of your link

Local

The IF, modem, and multiplex portions of the near end


IDU. Both internal and external Local loopback tests are
available. Only traffic on a selected tributary is affected.

A Diagram of the Internal Local Loopback Test

A Diagram of the External Local Loopback Test

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Local Maintenance Terminal User Guide

Run this test

To verify this segment of your link

Remote

The entire duplex microwave link, from end to end on a


per tributary basis.
Internal Remote loopback tests generate and verify a data
pattern at one end of the link (the near end radio) and
sends that data pattern to the opposite end of the link (the
far end radio). At the far end of the link, the data pattern is
received and looped back to the near end radio. An
external Remote loopback test uses a test set. All signal
generation and verification is performed by the test set in
external loopbacksthus providing a complete dynamic
test of the link. A Remote loopback test continues
looping data back and forth from the near end to the far
end until you stop it.

A Diagram of the Internal Remote Loopback Test

A Diagram of the External Remote Loopback Test

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Chapter 6. Running Loopback Tests

Before You Start


Before you start testing your system, you need to be aware of how running LMT
loopback tests affect normal link operation, how to approach testing a protected
configuration, and how to gauge the extent and duration of your testing. This
section examines all of these issues.

How Loopback Tests Impact Traffic


The impact that individual LMT loopback tests have on link traffic depends on
the type of system you are testing:

On a protected system, certain loopback tests run automatically on the


online unit; others run on the offline unit. Tests running on the offline unit
have no impact on link traffic.

On a non-protected system, running any LMT loopback test impacts traffic.


Some tests interrupt traffic only on the tributary you are testing currently;
other tests interrupt traffic across all radio tributaries.

The following table identifies traffic impact by radio type and test type:
Test Type

Protected System

Non-Protected System

Input

The Input loopback test runs on


the online unit; it interrupts traffic
only on the tributary being tested.

The Input loopback test


interrupts traffic only on the
tributary being tested.

Digital

The internal Digital loopback test


runs on the offline unit; it causes
no interruption to traffic.

Internal/external Digital
loopback tests take down the
entire link.

The external Digital loopback test


runs on the online unit; it takes
down the entire link.
Local

The internal Local loopback test


runs on the offline unit; it causes
no interruption to traffic.

Internal/external Local
loopback tests take down the
entire link.

The external Local loopback test


runs on the online unit; it takes
down the entire link.
Remote

6-6

Internal/external Remote
loopback tests run on the online
unit; they interrupt traffic only on
the tributary being tested.

Internal/external Remote
loopback tests interrupt traffic
only on the tributary being
tested.

Digital Microwave Corporation

Local Maintenance Terminal User Guide

Testing a Protected System


On a 1U protected system, the
LMT is the only way to
change online status.
On a 4U protected system,
you can change online status
via the LMT, or you can use
buttons available for this
purpose on the IDU front
panel.

Prior to performing diagnostic tests on a protected system, you need to lock one side
of the protected pair online. You either lock transmitter A and receiver A online, or
you lock transmitter B and receiver B online. Which side you lock online is a factor
of both the side you want to test and the test you want to run. Follow these
guidelines:

Before you run any external loopback test (Input, Digital, Local, or
Remote) or the internal Remote loopback test, lock the transmitter and
receiver to the side you want to test (either to the A side or to the B side).

Before you run either the internal Digital loopback test or the internal Local
loopback test, lock the transmitter and receiver to the side you are not going to
test (these tests run on the offline unit).

For instructions on how to lock a specific transmitter and receiver online in a


protected configuration, see Chapter 7. Locking a Protected Radio.
Note: Prior to performing any Remote loopback testing on a protected
system, you must lock one side of the near end protected pair
online. Locking one side of the far end protected pair online is
optional.

Testing Tributaries
When you are running LMT loopback tests, the number of individual tributaries
you check out and the duration of each test depends primarily on the following
two factors:

The reason you are


testing:

Have you recently installed a new


SPECTRUM II system and want to
check out radio and link operation prior
to commissioning the system?
Are you troubleshooting radio or link
problems currently being experienced on
an in-service system?

The type of system you are


testing:

Are you testing a non-protected system?


If so, running any loopback test always
impacts traffic to a certain extent.
Are you testing a protected system? If so,
running only some of the tests impact
ongoing traffic. Internal Local and
Digital loopback tests run on the offline
unit.

When you are verifying a new system, you may want to perform all LMT
loopback tests, and check out each radio tributary. On the other hand, when you
are responding to a current operational problem on an in-service system you will
want to minimize loopback testing to lessen the impact on traffic. How long
should you test a given tributary? In most situations, a two minute testing
interval allows adequate time for even intermittent errors to surface.

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Chapter 6. Running Loopback Tests

Running a Loopback Test


Use the Loopback Tests window to select the loopback test of interest, the
origin of the test pattern, and the specific tributary to run the test on. You can
also look at a diagram of the test you want to run.

Loopback tests run until you


stop them. If you forget to
stop a test, the Test indicator
located in the system
conditions bar of any LMT
window illuminates in yellow
to remind you that a test is
still running.

Test Information Displayed for the Internal Local Loopback Test

While a test is in progress, the Loopback Tests window keeps you informed
about how long the test has been running (Elapsed seconds), and about the
number of errors detected (for internal loopback tests only). Two error counts
are provided for each tributary you test:

Current bit errors

Displays the number of errors detected during the


current test period.

Total bit errors

Displays the total number of errors detected by the test.

Displayed error statistics are updated in real time as the test proceeds.

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Local Maintenance Terminal User Guide

To Run a Loopback Test


Prior to running any loopback test on a protected system, make sure that you
have locked the system according to the guidelines provided in "Testing a
Protected System " on page 6-7.

For a brief period (5 to 10


seconds), Local and Digital
loopback tests cause the BER
LED on the IDU executing
the test to illuminate in
amber. Ignore this indicator

1.

If you are running an external loopback test, connect the external device to
the appropriate tributary-specific IN and OUT connections on the front
panel of the IDU of interest. Then power up the equipment.

2.

Click the Loopback Tests button at the bottom of the Link Status
window, or choose Loopback Tests from the Go To pulldown menu
on any LMT window.

3.

From the Loopback Tests window, select the type test you want to run.
Options include Input, Digital, Local, or Remote.

4.

Select the origin of the test pattern (either internal or external).

5.

To view a diagram of the selected test, click the View Loopback Test
Diagram button. A window appears displaying the associated diagram.
When you are through viewing the diagram, click OK to close the window.

6.

Select a tributary to run the test on. To do so, click the down arrow next to
the tributary selection box to list available selections. Then click the
tributary you want to use. Your selection is inserted automatically in the
tributary selection box.

7.

Click the Run Test button to start the test. A message appears warning you of
any test impact:

Click Yes to start the test; or

Click No to abort your test request.

When you click Yes, the MAINTENANCE LED on the IDU running the test
illuminates in solid amber.
Note: If the LMT is connected to the IDU running the test, the
MAINTENANCE LED on that IDU flashes in amber.
8.

When you are ready to stop the test, click the Stop Test button.

9.

Check test results displayed in the right-hand side of the Loopback Tests
window:

If you are running an internal test, check the righthand side of the
Loopback Tests window for any errors recorded.

If you are running an external test, check the external equipment for
any errors recorded.

10. If errors have been recorded, repeat the test. If errors re-occur, refer to
"Appendix C. Troubleshooting Charts" and to the
SPECTRUM II Microwave Radio System Installation and Operation
Manual for guidance on corrective actions you can take.

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Chapter 6. Running Loopback Tests

11. To run the same loopback test against another tributary:

If you are running an internal test, start from step 6.

If you are running an external test, start over again from step 1.

12. To run a different loopback test, start over again from step 1.

Loopback Test Errors


When your system is working properly, loopback tests detect zero bit errors. If
errors are encountered, some possible sources of radio and link problems are:

The primary system power supply

Improper grounding

The IDU

The ODU

The cabling between the IDU/ODU

Antenna alignment

The connection between the antenna and ODU

The antenna itself

Radio interference

An obstruction or degradation in the transmission path between the two


ends of the link

When errors beyond the acceptable range are recorded, refer to "Appendix C.
Troubleshooting Charts" in this guide and to the SPECTRUM II Microwave
Radio System Installation and Operation Manual. Both sources provide
assistance with troubleshooting, fault isolation, and equipment replacement
procedures.

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Chapter 7. Locking a Protected Radio

Overriding Monitored Hot-Standby Switching


When one or both of the
radios in a link have
protected configurations, the
Auto/Lock indicator
appears in the system
conditions bar near the top of
LMT windows. When
monitored hot-standby
switching is in effect for all
protected IDUs, the indicator
label toggles to Auto and
illuminates in white. Should
either protected system be
placed in a locked state, the
indicator label toggles to
Lock and illuminates in
yellow.

A SPECTRUM II P monitored hot-standby (MHSB) configuration has a redundant


set of electronics that serve as a back-up to the in-service electronics in case of a
failure. When you need to do maintenance or run diagnostic testing on a protected
radio, you can temporarily override automatic hot-standby switching by locking one
set of electronics online. 1
The LMT locking controls feature is useful during system troubleshooting, or to
manually operate around a faulty component before or during repair. For example, if
both the A side transmitter and receiver are locked online, this side of the protected
pair continues to transmit and receive traffic. Maintenance and/or selective loopback
testing can be conducted on the offline unit, with no impact on link traffic.
Use the LMT Locking & Software function to enable and disable monitored
hot-standby switching on a protected configuration. You can lock a protected pairs
transmitter and receiver independently of each other, and of the transmitters and
receivers at the far end of the link. For example, the transmit functions of the A side
radio can be selected to operate with the receive functions of the B side radio, or
vice-versa.
Warning: Before performing loopback diagnostics on a protected
configuration, you must lock both the transmitter and receiver
to one side (either to the A side or to the B side). For more
information about locking and testing a protected radio, see
Chapter 6. Running Loopback Tests.

Prior to exiting the LMT, the LMT notifies you when a protected radio remains in a locked state.

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Chapter 7. Locking a Protected Radio

Locking and Unlocking a Protected Radio


When you are ready to enable or disable automatic switching on a protected
radio, start from the Locking & Software window shown below.

The Locking & Software


window provides access to
both the LMT locking
controls feature and the
software upgrading feature.2

Select the Locking Controls Feature from the Locking & Software Window

To Set or Change Locking Controls for a Protected


Radio

1.

Click the Locking & Software button at the bottom of the Link Status
window, or choose Locking & Software from the Go To pulldown
menu on any LMT window.

2.

When the Locking & Software window appears, click the Locking
Controls button.

3.

The Locking Controls for Protected Radios window appears. The


window includes information about the current online status of near end
and far end transmitters and receivers, and about which radio in a protected
pair is functioning as the master.

See Chapter 8. Upgrading SPECTRUM II Software for a description of how to download and activate
SPECTRUM II operating software.

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Local Maintenance Terminal User Guide

The Locking Controls for Protected Radios Window, Used for Enabling
and Disabling Automatic Hot-Standby Switching

If either the near end or far end of your link is not configured for protected
operation, the Locking Controls for Protected Radios window
appears with locking controls disabled (grayed out) for that side.
4.

5.

300-610007-001

Optionally set or change the Transmit locking controls for the near end
and/or far end of your link:

Click Automatic to return the transmit function to this mode. In


automatic mode, the built-in protection circuitry automatically
determines which transmitter is in service.

Click Lock Transmitter 'A' to lock the A side transmitter online.

Click Lock Transmitter 'B' to lock the B side transmitter online.

Optionally set or change the Receive locking controls for the near end
and/or far end of your link:

Click Automatic to return the receive function to automatic


hot-standby switching.

Click Lock Receiver 'A' to lock the A side receiver online.

Click Lock Receiver 'B' to lock the B side receiver online.

6.

Click the Send to Radios button to send your locking specifications to


the near end and/or far end radios.

7.

A message appears informing you of any impact your locking


specifications have on automatic monitored hot-standby switching:

Rev 1b, May 1998

a.

Click OK to return to the Locking Controls for Protected


Radios window.

b.

Then click Close to return to the Locking & Software window.

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Chapter 7. Locking a Protected Radio

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Digital Microwave Corporation

Chapter 8. Upgrading SPECTRUM II


Software

When You Get a New Version of Radio Software


Periodically, DMC distributes a new version of the IDU software used for
SPECTRUM II radio device control. The LMT Locking & Software function
makes it quick and easy for you to install upgraded SPECTRUM II operating
software on your system.
You can download and activate SPECTRUM II software upgrades to one IDU in
a link, to both IDUs in a non-protected link, or to some or all four IDUs in a
protected link:
Software activation interrupts
traffic on the affected
terminal(s) for approximately
15 seconds.

Downloading IDU software has no impact on link traffic.

Activating IDU software on a non-protected radio terminal interrupts traffic on


the link.

Activating IDU software on a protected radio terminal interrupts traffic.

During software downloading, a dynamically updated progress bar keeps you


informed about the percentage of completion as the download proceeds. After
IDU software is successfully downloaded, you can optionally activate the new
software immediately or leave this task for another time.
Note: Once you begin the task of downloading IDU software, both the Go
to keyword option on the menu bar and the Link Status button
on the system conditions bar are disabled and remain so until you
either complete the task or explicitly cancel the process.

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Chapter 8. Upgrading SPECTRUM II Software

About Active and Inactive IDU Software


The software used to monitor and control a SPECTRUM II radio resides in two
separate areas of IDU memory:

One memory bank stores the active IDU software being used to control the
device now. This repository is designated as the active memory bank.

Another memory bank stores an inactive version of IDU software. This


repository is designated as the inactive memory bank. Inactive IDU
software represents either a recently downloaded software upgrade you
have not activated yet, or an older software version that is not in use
currently.

On arrival from the factory, both IDU memory banks contain identical IDU
software.

When you download a new version of IDU software, the downloaded


software is automatically stored as inactive, replacing and erasing the
software currently stored as inactive.

When you activate downloaded software, the software is reclassified as the


active software used to control radio operation. The IDU software
previously used for this purpose is classified as inactive.

For Protected Configurations Only


On protected radio configurations, the potential exists for radio switching during
software downloading or activation. Consequently:

8-2

Before software downloading begins, the LMT locks the near end transmit
side and the far end receiver side online to prevent file corruption should
switching occur during the download process. After the download process
completes, the LMT automatically restores the near end transmit side and
the far end receiver side to the state it was in prior to starting the software
download.

Before software activation begins, the LMT sets all radio terminals to
automatic mode to enable switching in the event that a problem occurs
during software activation.

Digital Microwave Corporation

Local Maintenance Terminal User Guide

Starting From the Locking & Software Window


When you are ready to download or activate upgraded SPECTRUM II software
on some or all of the radios in a microwave link, start from the Locking &
Software window shown below.

An Example of the Locking & Software Window

Clicking either the Download Software or Activate Software option


buttons displays the window necessary to complete the selected task.

Before You Begin


Prior to downloading or activating SPECTRUM II software upgrades, DMC
recommends that you observe the following guidelines:

Clear up any active path faults before you start. You cannot download IDU
software to the far end radio when path faults are active on the link (for
example, a BER Fault, ODU Summary Fault, Cable Fault, or RSSI Fault).

On a 1U protected configuration, always connect the LMT cable to the


master IDU. To determine which IDU in a protected pair is the master,
look at the Near End terminal information on the Link Status window.
Both the laptop icon and the word Master should be parallel to either the A
or the B IDU, or use the "Display Far End" button process.

Recommended guidelines help to ensure minimal impact on your system when


applying software upgrades.

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Chapter 8. Upgrading SPECTRUM II Software

Downloading IDU Software


Specify software download requirements and initiate the download process from
the Download IDU System Software window shown below.

Besides initiating software


downloading from the
Download IDU System
Software window, you can
view an inventory of the
active and inactive software
currently resident in the IDUs
in your link. For protected
radios, you can also view a
list of recommended
procedures to follow when
downloading IDU software.

An Example of the Download IDU System Software Window Displayed for a


Fully Protected Link

Use the Download IDU System Software window to select the IDU
software file you want to download (alarm logging is temporarily suspended)
and the ends of the link you want the software downloaded to (Near End and/or
Far End). For a protected configuration, also designate whether software
downloading is to occur on one or both sides of a protected pair.

To Download IDU Software to One or More IDUs

8-4

1.

Click the Locking & Software button at the bottom of the Link Status
window, or choose Locking & Software from the Go To pulldown
menu on any LMT window.

2.

When the Locking & Software window appears, click the Download
Software button. The Download IDU System Software window
appears.

3.

(Optional). To view a current inventory of active and inactive IDU


software, click the View Current Software Versions button. This
action displays the Current Radio Software Versions information
window shown below. Click OK when you are ready to close this window.

Digital Microwave Corporation

Local Maintenance Terminal User Guide

An Example of the Current Radio Software Versions Window

4.

(Optional). To view a list of DMC recommendations when downloading


IDU software upgrades to a protected radio configuration, click the View
Recommendations button. The Recommendations for IDU
Software Download information window appears as shown below. Click
OK when you are ready to close this window.

An Example of the Recommendations for IDU Software Download Window

5.

Click the Specify File Name button.

6.

When the Select File to Download dialog box appears, specify the drive
and directory where your IDU software files are located. Then scroll the list
of associated files and click the file you want to download. Click OK to
close the dialog box. You can also click Cancel to abort your selection
request. When you select a file and click OK, your file selection is inserted
in the Name of file field in the Download IDU System Software
window.
An example of the Select File to Download dialog box displayed for
Windows 3.1 follows.

The Select File to Download Dialog Box

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Chapter 8. Upgrading SPECTRUM II Software

Warning: IDU software files have a file extension of .sss. Specifying any
other file extension displays a message stating that the file
cannot be located. You are asked to verify the correct path and
filename and cannot proceed with the download process until a
valid IDU software file is named or selected.
7.

Select which ends of the link you want the software downloaded to (Near
End and/or Far End). For a protected configuration, also select which
sides of a protected pair are to receive the downloaded version (A Side
and/or B Side). Downloading IDU software does not interrupt link traffic.

8.

To start the download process, click the Download Software button.


The Software Download dialog box appears displaying a progress bar
showing the status of the download in terms of percentage of completion.
The bar is dynamically updated as the download process proceeds.

Caution: The Software Download dialog box includes a Cancel button


to stop the download process. Canceling software downloading
corrupts the contents of the inactive memory bank for affected
IDUs (the ones you selected for software downloading). To
signal a corrupted software condition, the LMT inserts blanks in
the corresponding Inactive field(s) in the Activate IDU System
Software window. DO NOT activate corrupted IDU software.
Instead, re-download either a new or prior version of IDU
software to affected IDUs.
9.

You are notified when the software download process completes


successfully and are prompted to go directly to the Activate IDU System
Software window to activate the software:

Click Yes to display the Activate IDU System Software window.


Then proceed to activate the software as described in "Activating IDU
Software" on page 8-7; or

Click No to close the message box and return to the Locking &
Software window.

You are also notified if the software download process aborts, and are
prompted to try downloading once again.

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Digital Microwave Corporation

Local Maintenance Terminal User Guide

Activating IDU Software


When you are ready to activate an IDU software upgrade, perform this task from
the Activate IDU System Software window shown below.

You can go directly to the


Activate IDU System
Software window once you
have downloaded IDU
software. For more
information on this option;
see Step 9 in "Downloading
IDU Software" on page 8-4.

An Example of the Activate IDU System Software Window Displayed for


a Fully Protected Link

The window includes an inventory of the active and inactive IDU software
currently stored in the IDUs at the near end and far end of the link.

To Activate Software Upgrades On One Or More IDUs

300-610007-001

1.

Click the Locking & Software button at the bottom of the Link Status
window, or choose Locking & Software from the Go To pulldown
menu on any LMT window.

2.

When the Locking & Software window appears, click the Activate
Software button. The Activate IDU System Software window
appears.

3.

(Optional). To display a list of recommendations when downloading and


activating IDU software upgrades to a protected radio configuration, click
the View Recommendations button. The Recommendations
information window appears for viewing. Click OK when you are ready to
close this window.

4.

Click the Exchange Software check box associated with each IDU on
which you want to activate currently inactive IDU software.

5.

To activate software upgrades on selected IDUs, click the Activate


Software button. A message appears warning you that activating IDU
software on an online radio briefly interrupts traffic:

Rev 1b, May 1998

Click Yes to proceed with software activation; or

Click No to abort your software activation request.

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Chapter 8. Upgrading SPECTRUM II Software

When you click Yes, active and inactive IDU software are exchanged, both
in IDU memory and in the corresponding fields displayed in the Activate
IDU System Software window. The LMT notifies you when this process
is complete.
6.

Click OK to return to the Locking & Software window.

Rebooting an IDU
On rare occasions, a radio may cease normal operation. Perhaps you activated a
corrupt version of IDU software or the IDU has otherwise malfunctioned. In
such instances, you need to set the IDU back to boot-level, then use the LMT
Locking & Software function to restore the IDU to normal operation.

To Reboot an IDU
1.

Power off the IDU in question. This action terminates the LMT application
on the IDU.

2.

To initialize boot-level software on the IDU, simultaneously press and hold


the Display Far End button while powering on the IDU. At boot-level,
the MAINT LED flashes red on the IDU front panel.

3.

Physically connect the LMT to the IDU. Then re-start the LMT on your PC
or laptop.

4.

The Link Status window appears with notification that the near end radio
is in boot mode. All LMT functions buttons located at the bottom of the
window are disabled except for Locking & Software.
Click the Locking & Software button or choose Locking & Software
from the Go To pulldown menu from the menu bar.

8-8

5.

When the Locking & Software window appears, click the Activate
Software button.

6.

When the Activate IDU System Software window appears, click the
Exchange Software check box for the IDU in question. Then click the
Activate Software button to initialize the inactive version of IDU
software on the IDU.

7.

Complete the restoration process by downloading and activating the latest


version of IDU software on the IDU. Follow the steps described in
"Downloading IDU Software" on page 8-4 and in "Activating IDU
Software" on page 8-7.

Digital Microwave Corporation

Chapter 9. Creating and Maintaining


Custom Frequencies

When Standard Channel Plans Dont Meet Your Needs


When you need TX/RX frequency pairs (channels) that are not available in the
standard channel plans installed with the LMT, you can use the LMT to create
custom channel plans containing a range of available operating channel transmit
and receive frequency pairs to choose from. The LMT builds the channel plan
for you based on criteria you define within predetermined limits, and stores it in
the LMT Custom Frequency file.
You use the LMT Custom Frequencies function to create, modify, and delete
custom channel plans. Once you set a beginning low band frequency, and
specific frequency and channel separation values, the LMT automatically
generates all possible channels within your spacing constraints.
Note: The LMT Custom Frequencies function is available only on
VCO-Multiplier SPECTRUM II radios.

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Chapter 9. Creating and Maintaining Custom Frequencies

One File; Many Plans


You create custom channel plans for a specific type of radio, the type of radio
you are connected to. Each custom plan contains a range of channels. Each
channel consists of a low and high band TX/RX frequency pair. The LMT uses
channel plan information in conjunction with radio diplexer hardware constraints
to determine the frequency band and channel(s) available to a given microwave
radio terminal.
You can create as many custom channel plans as you like. When you configure
link radios, you tell the LMT which channel plan to use. Custom channel plans
are included for selection in the list of channel plans available for the radio you
are connected to.

When you configure a radio,


any custom channel plans you
have created for the same
radio type are included in the
selection list of available
channel plans.

Selecting from Standard and Custom Channel Plans

For information about how to set the Channel Plan configuration parameter,
see "Completing the Link Tab Dialog Box" in Chapter 4.

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Digital Microwave Corporation

Local Maintenance Terminal User Guide

Defining Your Custom Specifications


Before the LMT can build a custom plan for the radio you are connected to, you
need to define the following frequency and channel separation criteria:

T/R spacing

(Transmit to Receive spacing). Within a given


channel, the amount of separation, expressed in
megahertz (MHz), between the transmit frequency
and the corresponding receive frequency. T/R
spacing is determined by the channel plans
authorized for use by the regulatory authorities in
your country.

T/T spacing

(Transmit to Transmit spacing). Between two


adjacent channels, the amount of separation,
expressed in megahertz, between the center
frequency of one channel and the center frequency
of the adjacent channel. The range of T/T spacing
values is set by the bit rate of the radio (for
example: 4 x E1; 1 x E3; or 8 x DS1).

Low Band Transmit


Frequency

The transmit frequency for one of the low band


radio channels. This value functions as a reference
point for channel generation.

The LMT uses the values you input to construct the spectrum of possible
operating channels that can be supported by the radio you are connected to. Each
channel defines a unique pair of transmit and receive frequencies.

How Many Channels Are Generated?


The number of channels generated within the operating band of a radio is
controlled both by the T/R and T/T spacing values you select and by the diplexer
hardware installed in the radio. Diplexer hardware determines the maximum
number of adjacent transmit/receive frequencies, separated by a transmit/receive
channel separation value to avoid interference.
For example, the tuning range of a SPECTRUM II 38 GHz digital microwave
radio provides for up to 85 adjacent 7 MHz transmit/receive channels, or up to
42 adjacent 14 MHz channels. Transmit/receive channel separation is 1260
MHz.

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Chapter 9. Creating and Maintaining Custom Frequencies

Channel Plan Names


When you create or modify a custom channel plan, the LMT automatically
builds a name for the plan using the values you specify, plus bit rate information
secured from the radio. For example, the sample channel plan name:

Cust 1234 TX38100.0 38GHz 1260TR 16x2Mbps 40.00MHz

consists of the following component values.


This sample value

Reflects this manual or automatic entry

Cust

The fixed value "Cust," which the LMT automatically


assigns to distinguish custom channel plans from
standard channel plans.

1234

The ID you type in the Custom Channel Plan ID


field.

TX381000.0

The low band transmit frequency you type in the Low


Band Channel field.

38GHz

The nominal frequency description of the radio,


obtained from the radio itself.

1260TR

The transmit to receive value you select for the T/R


spacing field.

16x2Mbps

The bit rate for the radio, obtained from the radio
itself.

40.00 MHz

The transmit to transmit value you type in the T/T


spacing field.

When you configure a radio to communicate over a specific channel, the entire
channel plan name is sent to and stored in the radio. If you come back later on
and use an LMT that does not have that particular channel and channel plan
available, the values described above can be used to automatically regenerate the
custom channel plan for you.

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Digital Microwave Corporation

Local Maintenance Terminal User Guide

Using the Custom Frequencies Window


The Custom Frequencies window shown below provides access to the dialog
boxes used for creating, modifying, and deleting custom channel plans.

The Main Custom Frequencies Window

Clicking an existing plan in the Custom Channel Plan selection list displays
corresponding low band TX and RX frequencies for that plan in the adjacent
Low Band Channel Frequencies list.
To perform a file maintenance task, select one of the following buttons displayed
at the bottom of the Custom Frequencies window.
Click this button

If you want to

New Plan

Create a new custom channel plan and add it to the


LMT Custom Frequency file.

Modify Plan

Change an existing, non-active custom channel plan.

Delete Plan

Delete an existing, non-active custom channel plan.

The sections that follow provide step-by-step instructions for performing each of
these Custom Frequencies tasks.
Warning: You cannot modify or delete an active custom channel plan, a
plan that is being used currently by the two radios in a
microwave link. Should you attempt to do so, a warning
message appears to this effect.
If the currently active custom plan is no longer appropriate for
link radios, create a new custom channel plan. Then use the
Configure Radios function to configure the new custom
channel plan for the radios at each end of the link.

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Chapter 9. Creating and Maintaining Custom Frequencies

Creating a New Custom Channel Plan


Clicking the New Plan button at the bottom of the Custom Frequencies
window displays the Create a New Custom Channel Plan dialog box used
to add a new custom channel plan to the LMT Custom Frequency file.

The Dialog Box Used to Create a New Custom Channel Plan

To Create a Custom Channel Plan


1.

Click the Custom Frequencies button on the bottom of the Link


Status window, or choose Custom Frequencies from the Go to
pulldown menu on any LMT window.

2.

When the Custom Frequencies window appears, click the New Plan
button.

3.

When the Create a New Custom Channel Plan dialog box appears,
type an ID for the new plan in the Custom Channel Plan ID field. Enter
up to a maximum of 4 alphanumeric characters.

4.

In the Low Band TX field, type the transmit frequency value you want the
LMT to use as a reference point for building the custom channel plan. Your
entry must be within the identified frequency range.
Physical limitations exist for the frequencies that can be synthesized for
your radio. If you enter a decimal value that is invalid, the LMT offers
suggestions for the bracketing values that will work.

9-6

5.

Select the T/R spacing value for this plan. Click the down arrow next to the
T/R spacing field to list available options for the radio you are connected
to. Then click the desired T/R spacing value. Your selection is inserted
automatically in the T/R spacing field.

6.

In the T/T spacing field, type the desired channel-to-channel separation


value. Your entry must be within the identified frequency range.

7.

Click the Generate Channels button.

Digital Microwave Corporation

Local Maintenance Terminal User Guide

The LMT calculates all of the possible high and low band channels within
your spacing constraints, and displays the low band channel results in the
selection list adjacent to the Generate Channels button.
8.

Click Save Plan to add the new custom channel plan you just created to
the LMT Custom Frequency file or Cancel to discard the plan.
When you click Save Plan, a message confirms that the new plan has
been successfully added to the Custom Frequency file. The name the LMT
has given to the plan is also displayed.

9.

Click OK to return to the Custom Frequencies window. Then either:

Create, modify, or delete another custom channel plan; or

Click the Link Status button on the system conditions bar to return
to the Link Status window.

Note: Typically, it is very unusual for a microwave radio operator to need


large numbers of custom channel plans. When more than six have
been previously defined, the amount of time required to build a
new plan can become lengthy. This occurs because of the need to
extensively query the custom frequency database. As a radio
operator, you should be aware that building large numbers of
custom frequency channel plans can require 20-30 minutes each,
or sometimes longer depending on computer processing speed,
number of existing channels, and any channels created currently
in that database.

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Chapter 9. Creating and Maintaining Custom Frequencies

Modifying a Custom Channel Plan


Clicking the Modify Plan button on the bottom of the Custom Frequencies
window displays the Modify a Custom Channel Plan dialog box, used for
changing existing, non-active custom channel plans contained in the LMT
Custom Frequency file.

The Dialog Box Used to Modify a Custom Channel Plan

You can change the ID you assigned to an existing custom channel plan. You
can also specify different low band transmit frequency, T/R, and/or T/T values.
If you change existing spacing constraints, you can use the new spacing values to
generate a revised list of available channels.

To Modify a Custom Channel Plan


1.

From the Custom Frequencies window, click the custom channel plan
you want to modify. Then click the Modify Plan button. (Or double-click
the custom channel plan name, which displays the Modify a Custom
Channel Plan dialog box without first selecting the Modify Plan
button.)

2.

When the Modify a Custom Channel Plan dialog box appears, type or
select desired changes to this plan. For instructions on how to complete
various fields displayed in the dialog box, see "Creating a New Custom
Channel Plan" on page 9-6.

3.

If you have changed any spacing constraints, click the Generate


Channels button.
The LMT calculates all of the possible high and low channels within your
revised spacing constraints, and displays the results in the selection list
adjacent to the Generate Channels button.

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Local Maintenance Terminal User Guide

4.

Click Save Plan to keep the changes you have made to this plan or
Cancel to discard them. When you click Save Plan, a message confirms
that the current plan has been successfully modified. The revised name the
LMT has built for the changed plan is also displayed.

5.

Click OK to return to the Custom Frequencies window. Then either:

Create, modify, or delete another custom channel plan; or

Click the Link Status button on the system conditions bar to return
to the Link Status window.

Deleting a Custom Channel Plan


Clicking the Delete Plan button on bottom of the Custom Frequencies
window displays the Delete a Custom Channel Plan dialog box, used for
deleting an existing, non-active custom channel plan from the LMT Custom
Frequency file.

The Dialog Box Used to Delete a Custom Channel Plan

Deleting a custom channel plan deletes all of the associated frequency pairs for
that plan.

To Delete a Custom Channel Plan

300-610007-001

1.

From the Custom Frequencies window, click the custom channel plan
you want to delete. Then click the Delete Plan button.

2.

When the Delete a Custom Channel Plan dialog box appears, the
Custom Channel Plan field names the channel plan you selected in
step 1. Verify that you have selected the correct plan.

3.

Click Delete Channel Plan to delete the plan or Cancel to abort your
deletion request. When you click Delete Channel Plan, a message
confirms that the plan has been successfully deleted.

4.

Click OK to return to the Custom Frequencies window. Then either:

Rev 1b, May 1998

Create, modify, or delete another custom channel plan; or

Click the Link Status button on the system conditions bar to return
to the Link Status window.

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Chapter 9. Creating and Maintaining Custom Frequencies

9-10

Digital Microwave Corporation

Appendix A. Installing the LMT

About the Installation Process


This chapter describes how to install the LMT application on your PC or laptop.
provides guidelines for managing and maintaining specialized LMT initialization
files, and tells you how to periodically install an updated version of the LMT
initialization file containing standard channel plan definitions.
LMT installation disks include a setup utility used to install the product and to
create the LMT program group and associated icons on your desktop.

Using the Setup Utility Makes LMT Installation Easy


Six installation disks are distributed with the LMT software product. These disks
contain setup files used for product installation, LMT program and data files,
Online Help files, and Microsoft Open Database Connectivity (ODBC) files used
for creating the required data sources. Setup simply and quickly installs LMT
program software and supporting files on to your system:

Before beginning the file transfer process, Setup verifies that you have
enough disk space on the target drive to install the application.

Once you start Setup, you move through a series of windows that prompt
you for installation disks containing required program and data files, that
ask you to confirm or designate where product files will be transferred, or
that help you specify a default COM port setting.

When all application and setup files have been copied to the designated
drive and directory, Setup creates the LMT program group on your desktop
and adds two icons to the group.

The LMT Program Group Window

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Appendix A. Installing the LMT

You select this icon

To

LMT Read Me

Read about any last minute changes to the


product, to the documentation, or to the LMT
Online Help Facility.

LMT 4.0

Start the LMT application on your desktop.

On-Screen Graphics and What They Tell You


Setups main window, the LMT Installation window, provides the backdrop
for other installation windows and gives you continuous feedback as you proceed
through the installation process.

Setups Main Windowthe LMT Installation Window

Information Gauges
The LMT Installation window displays three information gauges that are
dynamically updated as the installation proceeds.

Gauges Show Available Disk Space, RAM, and File Copy Status

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Local Maintenance Terminal User Guide

The left gauge shows how much disk space is free. The Low indicator
beneath this gauge remains dimmed until disk space gets low, at which
point the indicator turns red to notify you of diminishing resources.

The middle gauge shows how much free RAM is available.

The right gauge shows how much of a file has been copied from the floppy
disk to the hard drive as the file is being transferred.

The Progress Indicator Bar


As files are being transferred to your hard disk, the Decompressing
window displays in the center of your screen.

A Progress Indicator Bar Keeps You Current on the Installation Process

300-610007-001

A horizontal color barcalled a progress indicator barslowly fills like a


thermometer and graphically depicts how much of the installation is
complete.

Text immediately above the progress indicator bar names the type of files
being copied from the installation diskette to your hard drive.

A continually changing number beneath the progress indicator bar shows


you the installation status in terms of percentage of completion.

Rev 1b May 1998

A-3

Appendix A. Installing the LMT

Installing the Product


This section describes how to start the LMT Setup utility, and how to proceed
through the installation process.

To Install the Product


1.

Start Windows on your PC or laptop.

2.

Place the disk labeled Disk 1 of 6 in floppy disk drive A. You can use a
different floppy disk drive if you want.

3.

Display the Run dialog box:

Under Windows 3.1 or Windows NT 3.51, choose Run from the


Program Manager File menu.

Under Windows 95 or Windows NT 4.0, choose Run from the Start


menu.

4.

When the Run dialog box appears, type a:setup, then click OK. (Type
b:setup if you are installing from the b drive.)

5.

A window appears indicating that the Setup program is initializing. After a


few moments, the LMT Installation Welcome window displays on your
terminal. The window cautions you to back up your entire Windows
directory before proceeding, and to close any Windows applications that
are running currently.

The LMT Installation Welcome Window

A-4

Click Continue to proceed with the LMT installation; or

Click Exit to terminate the installation process. If you choose this


option, you are asked to confirm your cancellation request.

Digital Microwave Corporation

Local Maintenance Terminal User Guide

6.

Assuming the installation continues, the LMT Installation window


prompts you to confirm or designate the drive and directory where LMT
installation files will be stored.

The LMT Installation Window

A default target drive and directory of C:\LMT40 is supplied for you. You
have three options here:

7.

Click Continue to select the default target drive/directory and


proceed with the installation; or

Click Change Directory to change where LMT files are stored; or

Click Exit to cancel the installation process. If you choose this


option, you are asked to confirm your cancellation request.

(Optional.) To change where LMT files are stored:


a.

Choose the Change Directory button from the LMT Installation


window.

b.

When the Installation Location dialog box appears, type desired


path changes and click OK to return to the LMT Installation
window.

The Installation Location Dialog Box

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Appendix A. Installing the LMT

8.

Once you have confirmed or designated where installation files are to be


copied, Setup displays the Decompressing window and begins
transferring the LMT program files stored on Disk 1 of 6.

The Decompressing Window

9.

When all of the files contained on Disk 1 of 6 are copied to your hard
drive, three consecutive dialog boxes prompt you to insert Disk 2 of 6,
then Disk 3 of 6, then Disk 4 of 6 into your floppy disk drive to copy
LMT Online Help files and LMT data files to the target drive and
directory:
a.

Place the requested disk in your floppy disk drive and click OK to
continue; or

b.

Click Cancel to terminate the installation process. If you choose this


option, you are asked to confirm your cancellation request.

Setup redisplays the Decompressing window and performs the file


transfer process for the LMT files stored on each of the named disks
10. After all LMT files are copied to the designated directory, the following
dialog box prompts you to optionally specify a default COM port.

An Example of the Dialog Box Used to Optionally


Select a Default COM Port

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Digital Microwave Corporation

Local Maintenance Terminal User Guide

A default COM port setting of COM1 is automatically selected for you.


You have the following options here:

Click Continue to accept the default COM port setting and proceed
with the installation; or

Click COM2, COM3, or COM4 to change the default setting, then


select Continue. You can also click Help to display suggestions on
which COM port setting to select; or

Click Exit to cancel the installation process. If you choose this


option, you are asked to confirm your cancellation request.

11. Two more dialog boxes prompt you to insert Disk 5 of 6 then Disk 6 of 6
into your floppy disk drive to copy ODBC-related files into the target
directory.
12. When all ODBC files are copied to the target directory, a message notifies
you that required data sources have been successfully created. Click OK to
close the message box.
13. Setup creates the LMT program group on your desktop, notifies you that
the installation is complete, and prompts you for your next action.

The Installation Complete Dialog Box

In response to the prompt:

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Rev 1b May 1998

Click View README to open and read the LMT ReadMe file; or

Click Return to Windows to return to the Program Manager


desktop.

A-7

Appendix A. Installing the LMT

What Gets Installed?


Setup copies the following files to the C:\LMT40 directory, or to the directory
you specify.
File Name

Description

CUSTFREQ.LDB

Supporting file for CUSTFREQ.MDB.

CUSTFREQ.MDB

Creates a template for the LMT CUSTFREQ.MDB initialization


file. The CUSTFREQ.MDB file contains custom channel plans
developed to address situations where a needed frequency is not
available in the standard channel plans.

CFG

Assigned directory for configuration files.

D2HLINK.DLL

Contains the 16-bit version of the dynamic link library file


required by the LMT Online Help Navigator tool.

D2HNAV.EXE

Contains the 16-bit version of the LMT Online Help Navigator


executable.

D2HNAV.HLP

Contains the 16-bit version of the Navigator Online Help file.

D2HTOOLS.DHN

Contains the Navigator Online Help file.

D2HTOOLS.DLL

Contains the dynamic link library that provides support for


displaying 256-color bitmaps.

DIPLEXER.INI

Contains diplexer tuning ranges. The diplexer hardware used by a


specific radio terminal determines the frequency that radio can
operate within. The LMT uses values contained in the
DIPLEXER.INI file to calculate the individual channels within a
given frequency band.

LMT40.DHN

Contains the LMT program help function.

LMT40.EXE

Contains the LMT executable program for running the LMT


application.

LMT40.HLP

Contains the LMT Online Help file.

LMT.INI

Contains information about which COM port the LMT uses to


"talk" to the IDU.

MFC250.DHN

Contains the Dynamic Link Library (DLL) used by the LMT


program.

MSOUTLIN.VBX

Contains Visual Basic dialog box outline controls used by the


LMT Online Help Navigator tool.

ODBC

Contains various ODBC redistribution 16-bit windows.

README.WRI

Contains updated LMT product information.

STDFREQ.LDB

Supporting file for STDFREQ.MDB.

STDFREQ.MDB

Either contains standard channel plan definitions for all


SPECTRUM II frequency rates and channels, or the values used
by the LMT for calculating these definitions.
SPECTRUM II Microwave Radio Systems are available in
different operating frequency bands and various data rates. The
LMT uses the STDFREQ.MDB initialization file to validate or
calculate the frequency band and channel(s) within which a given
radio terminal can operate.

A-8

Digital Microwave Corporation

Local Maintenance Terminal User Guide

Some Tips on Managing LMT Initialization Files


The LMT uses a total of four initialization files:

STDFREQ.MDB

DIPLEXER.INI

CUSTFREQ.MDB

LMT.INI

During installation, Setup copies the first three initialization files to your system
as described in What Gets Installed? on page A-8. The forth initialization file,
LMT.INI, is created under the PROGRAM directory the first time you run the
LMT. The LMT.INI file is used to store information about which COM port the
LMT uses to talk to the IDU.
Caution: DO NOT make changes to LMT files. Doing so can jeopardize
file integrity and compromise the terminal configuration
process. Any authorized changes to these files will be made
and distributed by DMC.

More About the CUSTFREQ.MDB File


The CUSTFREQ.MDB file contains one or more custom channel plans
developed to address situations where a needed frequency is not available in the
standard channel plans. A custom channel plan consists of a range of possible
operating channel transmit and receive frequency pairs for a given operating
band and data rate. The LMT uses associated custom channel plans in
conjunction with the DIPLEXER.INI file to validate or calculate the frequency
band and channel(s) within which a given radio terminal can operate.
You can create as many custom channel plans as you like. When you configure
link radios, you tell the LMT which channel plan to use. Custom channel plans
are included for selection in the list of channel plans available for the radio you
are connected to. For information about how to set the Channel Plan
configuration parameter, see "Completing the Link Tab Dialog Box" in
Chapter 4.

300-610007-001

Rev 1b May 1998

A-9

Appendix A. Installing the LMT

When DMC Updates the STDFREQ.MDB File


Periodically, DMC distributes an updated version of the STDFREQ.MDB
initialization file. This section describes how to install the replacement
STDFREQ.MDB file on your system.

To Replace Your Current STDFREQ.MDB File


1.

Start Windows on your PC or laptop.

2.

Place the diskette labeled Channel Plan ODBC Data Base in floppy
disk drive A. You can use a different floppy disk drive if you want.

3.

Display the Run dialog box:

Under Windows 3.1 or Windows NT 3.51, choose Run from the


Program Manager File menu.

Under Windows 95 or Windows NT 4.0, choose Run from the Start


menu.

4.

When the Run dialog box appears, type a:setup, then click OK. (Type
b:setup if you are installing from the b drive.)

5.

A window appears indicating that the Setup program is initializing. Then


the following Welcome window is displayed on your terminal.

The Welcome Window

You have two options:

A-10

Click Continue to proceed with the file update process; or

Click Exit to cancel the update process. If you choose this option, you
are asked to confirm your cancellation request.

Digital Microwave Corporation

Local Maintenance Terminal User Guide

6.

Assuming that file update process continues, the STDFREQ.MDB


Update window prompts you to select the drive and directory where the
LMT application is located currently. A default target path of C:\LMT40 is
suggested.

The STDFREQ.MDB Update Window

You have three options here:

Click Update to select path defaults and proceed with the file update
process; or

Click Exit to cancel the file update process. If you choose this option,
you are asked to confirm your cancellation request; or

Change the path specification to the location where the LMT


application resides on your system. Choose Change Directory to
display the following window used to change the default path
specification.

The Location of Current STDFREQ.MDB Window

300-610007-001

Rev 1b May 1998

A-11

Appendix A. Installing the LMT

To Change Drives: Click the down arrow () adjacent to the


Drives selection field. Scroll the displayed list and click the desired
drive. This action closes the list and inserts your selection in both the
Drives and Path fields. Now proceed to make your
directory/subdirectory selections.
To Change Directories: Double-click [..] to move one level up on
the directory path and display a list of associated subdirectories in the
Directories selection box. Scroll the displayed list and double-click
the desired directory. Double-clicking any directory list item inserts
that directory into the Path field, and displays a list of associated
subdirectories in the Directories selection box.
When you are through making your selection(s), click OK to return to
the STDFREQ.MDB Update window.
7.

Setup verifies that the LMT application resides on the designated


directory/drive. If the LMT application cannot be located, the following
LMT Application not found dialog box warns you of this fact and
prompts you to select a different path specification.

The LMT Application Not Found Dialog Box

8.

A-12

Click OK to return to the Location of current STDFREQ.MDB


window to make a valid directory selection. Then click OK to return
to the STDFREQ.MDB Update window.

From the STDFREQ.MDB Update window, click Update or Exit


to exit Setup.

After Setup verifies that the LMT program resides on the designated
directory/drive, it checks to see if sufficient disk space is available on your
hard drive to accommodate the new source STDFREQ.MDB file. If you do
not have enough disk space to accommodate the new file, the Insufficient
Disk Space dialog box shown on the following page is displayed on your
terminal.

Digital Microwave Corporation

Local Maintenance Terminal User Guide

The Insufficient Disk Space Dialog Box

You have two options here:

9.

Click Update Anyway to proceed with the update process. The


Channel Plan ODBC Data Base Update Program will attempt to copy
the source STDFREQ.MDB file to the selected directory/drive. If
sufficient disk space is unavailable on the selected drive, the
STDFREQ.MDB file may be corrupted. However, if you are
overwriting an existing file, the process may finish successfully; or

Click Cancel Setup to return to the STDFREQ.MDB Update


window to select another path or to exit Setup to free up needed disk
space.

If the target STDFREQ.MDB file has either the same date or a more recent
date than the source STDFREQ.MDB file, the following dialog box
appears.

The Check Dates Dialog Box

300-610007-001

Rev 1b May 1998

Click OK to update the target STDFREQ.MDB file anyway; or

Click Cancel to terminate the file update process. If you choose this
option, you are asked to confirm your cancellation request.

A-13

Appendix A. Installing the LMT

10. Assuming the installation continues, Setup begins the file transfer process
and displays the Decompressing window shown below.

The Decompressing Window

As Setup copies the source STDFREQ.MDB file to the designated disk, the
Decompressing Window is continuously updated with information
about where you are in the update process.
11. When Setup finishes copying the source STDFREQ.MDB file to your hard
drive, the Update Complete dialog box displays on your terminal
prompting you for your next action.

The Update Complete Dialog Box

In response to the prompt:

A-14

Click View README to open and read the LMT ReadMe file; or

Click Return to Windows to return to the Program Manager


desktop.

Digital Microwave Corporation

Appendix B. Radio Faults

An Aid to Understanding Radio Fault Alerts


Appendix B lists and describes the radio fault alerts captured and reported by the
LMT.1
Fault descriptions include information about whether a fault causes a switch in a
protected environment, or impacts traffic. For some faults, these results are
conditional based on other active faults at the time.

About Fault Type Codes


For informational purposes, fault alerts are assigned one of four type codes:

This type code

Identifies faults alerts triggered when

An external fault point becomes active.

A malfunction occurs in the equipment at either the near


end or far end radio terminal, or in the transmission path
between the two radios.

A radio relay becomes active.

An informational message is generated concerning current


radio or link status.

Also see "Appendix C. Troubleshooting Charts" for additional help on understanding and resolving faults that
cause specific LEDs to illuminate on an IDU front panel (BER, ODU, INPUT, and CABLE).

300-610007-001

Rev 1b, May 1998

B-1

Appendix B. Radio Faults

Fault Descriptions
Faults are described in alphabetical sequence in the table below. Where
applicable, suggested solutions for fault resolution are also provided.

Fault

Type

Causes
Switch

Impacts
Traffic

Diagnostic Active

No

Yes

A loopback test is in progress. The fault clears when


you stop the test.

External Fault n

No

No

The corresponding external fault status/condition is


active.

Far End Fault

No

Conditional

Designates that faults are active at the far end of the


link. May be caused by telemetry problems between
the near end and far end radios. To help pinpoint the
source of the problem:

Symptom or Cause

Press the DISPLAY FAR END button to display


the faults and status at the far end radio.

Also check the LMT Faults report for any


associated fault alerts (configuration mismatch,
high BER condition, etc.).

If necessary, go to the far end radio, connect the


LMT, and check the Faults report for indicated
faults.
As necessary, make hardware replacements (near end
or far end IDU, ODU, or RF Assembly Complete).

IDU 'A'/'B' Bipolar


Violation Fault

No

No

A violation has occurred in the bipolar framing of


incoming traffic (the presence of two consecutive
one bits of the same polarity is detected on the T
carrier line).

IDU 'A'/'B' Cable


Fault

Yes

Yes

Either:
1.

B-2

The coax cable between the IDU and ODU is


shorted or open:

Check cable connections. Repair faulty


connection; or

Check cable connectors. Remove and


replace faulty connector; or

Check connectors on the IDU and ODU for


foreign objects or other debris. Clean as
necessary.

Digital Microwave Corporation

Local Maintenance Terminal User Guide

Fault

Type

Causes
Switch

Impacts
Traffic

IDU 'A'/'B' Cable


Fault (Cont'd)

Symptom or Cause
2.

The 300 baud link between the ODU and the IDU
is malfunctioning (a corollary ODU 'A'/'B' Link
Fault also occurs):

If the radio is configured for non-protected


operation, replace the ODU.

If the radio is configured for protected


operation, replace the faulty RF Assembly
Complete.

Otherwise, on a 1U system replace the IDU.


On a 4U system replace the IDU PIU.

IDU 'A'/'B'
Configuration Fault

No

No

Configuration parameters do not match on both IDUs


in a protected pair. Use the LMT to review and adjust
corresponding radio configuration parameters.

IDU 'A'/'B' Fan Fault

No

No

The fan or fan circuit has failed:

IDU 'A'/'B' Protected


Serial Link Fault

No

No

On a 1U system, replace the IDU.

On a 4U system, replace the fan unit PIU.

The protection cable between the A side and B side


IDUs is disconnected:

Check the protection cable.

Check for power to both radios in the protected


pair.

IDU 'A'/'B' Receiver


Deframe Fault

Yes

Yes

The near end receiver loses frame synchronization


with the transmitter at the far end of the link.

IDU 'A'/'B' Reset Fault

Yes

Yes

The microprocessor in the IDU has restarted. This


occurs when:

Power has been switched on; or

The microprocessor has rebooted.

IDU 'A'/'B' Silent


Transmitter Failure
Fault

Yes

Yes

The near end transmitter switches after both receivers


at the far end fail to receive signal transmission from
the near end. This fault condition is generally the
result of a faulty near end transmitter, a bad antenna,
or the presence of path obstructions in the link.

IDU 'A'/'B'
Temperature Fault

No

No

The temperature inside the IDU exceeds 94 degrees


Celsius. Possible causes are:

High environmental (external) temperatures

Electronic burn occurring inside the radio near the


sensor

Analog-to-digital converter failure

Power fluctuations

If the condition does not clear itself, replace the IDU.

300-610007-001

Rev 1b, May 1998

B-3

Appendix B. Radio Faults

Fault

Type

Causes
Switch

Impacts
Traffic

Major Fault

No

No

A traffic-affecting fault has occurred (one of over 30


fault conditions are sensed by the microprocessor in
the IDU). Check the IDU front panel and the LMT
Faults report for associated fault conditions.

Minor Fault

No

No

A non-traffic affecting fault has occurred, such as an


IDU 'A'/'B' Fan Fault, an ODU 'A'/'B'
Temperature Fault, or a Receiver A/B Low
BER Fault. Check the IDU front panel and the LMT
Faults report for associated fault conditions.

ODU 'A'/'B'
Configuration Fault

No

No

Either:

Symptom or Cause

1.

The bit rate of the Personality Module on the RF


Assembly Complete does not match the bit rate of
the IDU (flashing red ODU LED):

Verify that the bit rate of the Personality


Module matches the bit rate of the IDU or
IDU PIU; or

Replace the Personality Module with the


correct bit rate Personality Module; or

Replace the IDU with the correct bit rate


IDU.

2.

A mismatch exists between the near end and far


end configurations. Modify the IDU configuration
to match the far end radio.

3.

A mismatch exists between the IDU and ODU


hardware or software configurations. Correct the
situation.

4.

Possible loose ribbon cable in ODU.

ODU 'A'/'B' Deviation


Fault

Yes

Yes

The transmitted RF is operating outside of


specifications. Return the ODU to DMC for needed
adjustments. This fault condition can occur when the
bit rate of the ODU has been changed.

ODU 'A'/'B' Link Fault

Yes

Yes

A communication problem has occurred between the


IDU and ODU:

ODU 'A'/'B' Power


Amplifier Fault

B-4

Yes

Yes

Check the cable connection between the IDU and


ODU.

Recycle power on the IDU.

A malfunction has occurred in the ODU power


amplifier. Depending on radio architecture, different
components will need to be replaced.

Digital Microwave Corporation

Local Maintenance Terminal User Guide

Fault

Type

Causes
Switch

Impacts
Traffic

Symptom or Cause

ODU 'A'/'B' Power


Supply Fault

Yes

Yes

The ODU has a faulty CPU/Power Supply module:

If radio is configured for non-protected operation,


replace the ODU.

If radio is configured for protected operation,


replace faulty RF Assembly Complete.

ODU 'A'/'B' Receiver


Synthesizer Fault

Yes

Yes

The Gunn diode oscillator in the receiver is out of


lock. Replace the ODU.

ODU 'A'/'B' Reference


Synthesizer Fault

Yes

Yes

The reference synthesizer is operating outside of


specification. The ODU will attempt to re-initialize
the synthesizer. If the fault condition does not clear,
replace the reference synthesizer.

ODU 'A'/'B'
Temperature Fault

No

No

The temperature inside the ODU exceeds 86 degrees


Celsius. Possible causes include:

High environmental (external) temperatures

Electronic burn occurring inside the radio near the


sensor

Loose ribbon cable inside the ODU

Analog-to-digital converter failure

Power fluctuations

If the condition does not clear itself, replace the ODU.


ODU 'A'/'B' Transmitter
Synthesizer Fault

Yes

Yes

The Gunn diode oscillator in the transmitter is out of


lock. Replace the ODU.

Receiver 'A'/'B'
High BER Fault

Yes

Yes

The high bit error rate (BER) threshold set during


radio configuration has been exceeded. For help on
problem isolation and resolution, see the appropriate
High BER Condition flowchart in "Appendix C.
Troubleshooting Charts."

Receiver 'A'/'B'
Low BER Fault

No

Yes

The low bit error rate (BER) threshold set during


radio configuration has been exceeded. For help on
problem isolation and resolution, see the appropriate
Low BER Condition flowchart in "Appendix C.
Troubleshooting Charts."

Receiver 'A'/'B' Online

No

No

In a protected configuration, either the A side or B


side receiver is currently online. This is an
informational message displayed in the LMT Link
Status window.

Receiver 'A'/'B'
Summary Fault

No

No

A summary fault created by any receiver fault.

Receiver Automatic

No

No

In a protected configuration, the receiver is operating


in automatic mode. This is an informational message
displayed in the LMT Link Status window.

300-610007-001

Rev 1b, May 1998

B-5

Appendix B. Radio Faults

Fault

Type

Causes
Switch

Impacts
Traffic

Receiver Locked Online

No

No

In a protected configuration, this receiver has been


locked online. This is an informational message
displayed in the LMT Link Status window.

Relay n

No

No

The corresponding relay is active.

Telemetry Failure

Yes

Yes

Telemetry is not being received from the far end. The


actual problem can be within the transmit or receive
portions at either end of the microwave path. Check
for any additional fault alerts active at the near end.

Transmitter 'A'/'B'
Online

No

No

In a protected configuration, either the A side or B


side transmitter is currently online. This is an
informational message displayed in the LMT Link
Status window.

Transmitter 'A'/'B'
Summary Fault

No

No

A summary fault created by any transmitter fault.

Transmitter Automatic

No

No

In a protected configuration, the transmitter is


operating in automatic mode. This is an informational
message displayed in the LMT Link Status window.

Transmitter Locked
Online

No

No

In a protected configuration, the transmitter has been


locked online. This is an informational message
displayed in the LMT Link Status window.

Tributary n Input Fault

No

Yes

User traffic is absent or other traffic input faults are


detected on a tributary that has been enabled for fault
alerts (red INPUT LED):

Tributary n
Unexpected Input

B-6

No

No

Symptom or Cause

Check cable connections between the IDU and


premise equipment. Repair or replace as
necessary; or

Check user G.703 termination equipment. Repair


or replace as necessary.

Unexpected traffic is detected on a tributary with a


disabled fault alert status (amber INPUT LED):

Check the Tributary Fault Setting in the LMT


Tributaries tab dialog box. Where applicable,
change setting to enabled; or

Check tributary connections.

Digital Microwave Corporation

Appendix C. Troubleshooting Charts

More Help on Diagnosing and Resolving Radio Faults


Appendix C contains troubleshooting charts designed to assist you in
understanding and resolving radio faults that cause one or more of the following
LEDs to illuminate on the front panel of a protected or non-protected
SPECTRUM II IDU.
When this LED
illuminates
BER LED

On a Protected
System

On a Non-Protected
System

If the BER LED


illuminates in amber, see
Protected Systems:
Low BER Condition on
page C-2.

If the BER LED


illuminates in amber, see
"Non-Protected Systems:
Low BER Condition" on
page C-4.

If the BER LED


illuminates in red, see
Protected Systems:
High BER Condition
on page C-3.

If the BER LED


illuminates in red, see
Non-Protected
Systems: High BER
Condition on page C-5.

ODU LED

See Protected/Non-Protected Systems: ODU Faults


on page C-6.

INPUT LED

See Protected/Non-Protected Systems: Input Faults


Protected/Non-Protected Systems: Input Faults on
page C-7.

CABLE LED

See Protected/Non-Protected Systems: Cable Faults


on page C-9.

For a complete list and description of all reported radio faults, see Appendix B.
Radio Faults.

300-610007-001

Rev 1b, May 1998

C-1

Appendix C. Troubleshooting Charts

Protected Systems: Low BER Condition


A low BER condition is signaled when the BER LED on an IDU front panel
illuminates in amber. This condition is triggered when the low bit error rate
(BER) threshold configured for a radio terminal is exceeded. Receiver A/B
Low BER Fault alerts also appear on the LMT online Faults report. Use the
following chart to locate the source of a low BER condition on a SPECTRUM II
protected radio terminal.

Check the LMT online RSSI report at


both ends of the link. Because all four
IDUs are indicating low BER faults, a
path problem is most likely. The
probability of an equipment problem is
remote.

start

BER LED on IDU front panel


illuminates in amber?

Yes
Is fault occurring on both sides of the
protected IDU pairs at both ends of
the link?

Yes
Yes

Yes

Is fault occurring at both ends


of the link?

Is fault occurring on both sides of


the protected pair?

No

No

No
Check for proper antenna alignment,
path obstructions, loose connections,
or any other condition common to the
path.

Replace IDU.

Run a Local internal or external


loopback test on the IDU
showing a low BER fault. Does
the IDU run an error-free test?
Yes

If low BER faults are occurring on


both IDUs at one end of the link and
on only one IDU at the other end, an
equipment problem is likely at the
latter end. Protection switching may
have cleared corresponding fault alerts
on the link. Where installed, check
DMC Net to verify that the fault alert
described in this box did occur. If yes,
proceed to next box.

Run a Local internal or external


loopback test on the IDU that shows a
low BER fault and that causes low
BER faults at the far end. Does the
IDU run an error-free test?

No

Replace either the affected RF


Basic Assembly or the entire ODU.

The problem is caused by a far end transmitter. The


defective transmitter may now be offline, with
corresponding fault alerts cleared. To determine
which far end transmitter is faulty, place each
transmitter in the protected pair online in turn to
locate the source of low BER faults.

No

Replace IDU.

Run a Local internal or


external loopback test on the
IDU causing low BER faults to
occur at the far end. Does the
IDU run an error-free test?
Yes

Yes
Replace either the affected
RF Basic Assembly or the
entire ODU.

No

Replace
IDU.

Decrease attenuation level.


Did fault alert clear?
No
Replace either the affected
RF Basic Assembly or the
entire ODU.

C-2

Digital Microwave Corporation

Local Maintenance Terminal User Guide

Protected Systems: High BER Condition


A high BER condition is signaled when the BER LED on an IDU front panel
illuminates in red. This condition is triggered when the high bit error rate (BER)
threshold configured for a radio terminal is exceeded. Receiver A/B High
BER Fault alerts also appear on the LMT online Faults report. Use the
following chart to locate the source of a high BER condition on a
SPECTRUM II protected radio terminal.
Check the LMT Link Status window to
verify that RF channels are configured the
same for both ends of the link. Also check
the LMT online RSSI report at both ends
of the link. Because all four IDUs are
indicating high BER faults, a path
problem is likely. The probability of an
equipment problem is remote.

start

BER LED on IDU front panel


illuminates in red?

Yes

Yes
Is fault occurring on both sides of
the protected IDU pairs at both
ends of the link?

Yes

Yes
No

Is fault occurring at both


ends of the link?

Is fault occurring on both sides


of the protected pair?

No

No
Check the LMT online Faults report. Does the report show
any faults indicating an equipment failure in the affected
IDU? Or does the report show only high BER, receiver
deframe, and receiver summary faults?

Check for proper antenna


alignment, path obstructions,
loose connections, or any other
condition common to the path.

Receiver deframe
If high BER faults are occurring on both IDUs at
the far end of the link and on only one IDU at
the near end, an equipment problem is likely at
the near end. Protection switching may have
cleared corresponding fault alerts on the link.
Where installed, check DMC Net to verify that
the fault condition described in this box did
occur. Did IDU equipment faults occur?
No

Run a Local internal or external


loopback test on the IDU showing
a high BER fault. Does the IDU
run an error-free test?
Yes

No
Replace IDU.

Yes

Equipment
Replace IDU.

Replace either the affected


RF Basic Assembly or the
entire ODU.

Replace IDU.
The problem is caused by the far end transmitter. The defective
transmitter may now be offline, with corresponding fault alerts
cleared. To determine which far end transmitter is faulty, place
each transmitter in the protected pair online in turn to locate the
source of high BER faults. Where installed, also check DMC Net
for a "Silent Transmitter Failure Fault" on either the A side or B
side transmitter. The IDU A/B Silent Transmitter Failure
Fault alert tells you which transmitter has failed.

Run a Local internal or external


loopback test on the IDU that shows a
high BER fault and that causes high
BER faults at the far end. Does the
IDU run an error-free test?
Yes

No
Replace IDU.

Replace either the


affected RF Basic
Assembly or the
entire ODU.

Run a Local internal or external


loopback test on the IDU causing high
BER faults to occur at the far end. Does
the IDU run an error-free test?
Yes

300-610007-001

Rev 1b, May 1998

Decrease attenuation
level. Did fault alert
clear?

No

No

Replace
IDU.

Replace either the


affected RF Basic
Assembly or the
entire ODU.

C-3

Appendix C. Troubleshooting Charts

Non-Protected Systems: Low BER Condition


A low BER condition is signaled when the BER LED on an IDU front panel
illuminates in amber. This condition is triggered when the low bit error rate
(BER) threshold configured for a radio terminal is exceeded. Receiver A/B
Low BER Fault alerts also appear on the LMT online Faults report. Use the
following chart to locate the source of a low BER condition on a SPECTRUM II
non-protected radio terminal.

start
Check for proper antenna
alignment, path obstructions,
loose connections, or any other
condition common to the path.

BER LED on IDU front panel


illuminates in amber?

Low
Check the LMT online RSSI
report for both ends of the link.
Is the RSSI low or normal at
both ends?

Yes

Both

Is fault occurring at one or


both ends of the link?

Normal

Run a Local internal or


external loopback test on the
IDU at each end of the link to
verify normal IDU operation.
Did both IDUs test OK?
Yes

If the RSSI is normal at both


ends of the link and both IDUs
tested OK, the most likely cause
of the low BER fault is a faulty
ODU. Change ODUs until the
fault clears.

Replace IDU.

No
One

Run a Local internal or


external loopback test on
the near end IDU. Does the
IDU run an error-free test?
Yes

No

Replace defective
IDU.

Run a Local internal or


external loopback test on
the far end IDU. Does the
IDU run an error-free test?

No

Yes
Decrease attenuation level.
Did fault alert clear?
No
Replace ODU at the end of
the link showing a low BER
fault. Did fault alert clear?
No
Replace far end ODU.

C-4

Digital Microwave Corporation

Local Maintenance Terminal User Guide

Non-Protected Systems: High BER Condition


A high BER condition is signaled when the BER LED on an IDU front panel
illuminates in red. This condition is triggered when the high bit error rate (BER)
threshold configured for a radio terminal is exceeded. Receiver A/B High
BER Fault alerts also appear on the LMT online Faults report. Use the
following chart to locate the source of a high BER condition on a
SPECTRUM II non-protected radio terminal.

Check the LMT Link Status window to


verify that the RF channels are configured
the same at both ends of the link. Check the
online Faults report for any faults
indicating equipment failures in the IDUs.
Also check for proper antenna alignment,
path obstructions, loose connections, or any
other condition common to the path.

start

Replace IDU.

BER LED on IDU front panel


illuminates in red?

Low

Equipment

Yes

Check the LMT online RSSI report


for both ends of the link. Is the RSSI
normal or low at both ends?

Yes

Is fault occurring at both


ends of link?

No

Check the LMT online Faults report. Does


the report show any faults indicating an
equipment failure in the affected IDU? Or
does the report show only high BER,
receiver deframe, and IDU receiver faults?

Normal

Run a Local internal or external


loopback test on the IDU at each
end of the link to verify normal
IDU operation. Did both IDUs test
OK?

Receiver deframe
No

Replace
defective
IDU.

Run a Local internal or


external loopback test on near
end and far end IDUs. Do both
IDUs run error-free tests?

Yes
Yes
If the RSSI is normal at both ends
of the link and both IDUs tested
OK, the most likely cause of the
high BER fault is a faulty ODU.
Change ODUs until the fault
clears.

No
Replace
defective
IDU.

Decrease attenuation level.


Did fault alert clear?
No

The most likely cause of the


high BER fault is a faulty
ODU. Change ODUs until
the fault clears.

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Appendix C. Troubleshooting Charts

Protected/Non-Protected Systems: ODU Faults


When a failure occurs in the Local Oscillator (Synthesizer) or other component
of the ODU, the ODU LED illuminates either in solid or flashing red on the front
panel of a SPECTRUM II IDU. The ODU LED indicator signals that something
is wrong with the transmittal or receipt of data. Use the following chart to locate
the source of this condition on either a protected or non-protected
SPECTRUM II radio terminal.

start
ODU LED illuminates on IDU
front panel?
Yes
Solid Red

Is ODU LED flashing red or


solid?

Did the fault occur at either initial


start-up or after replacing the IDU?
Yes

Signals an ODU A/B Configuration


Fault, which occurs under one of two
conditions. Either :

No

Check the LMT online Faults report.


Are only ODU A/B Transmitter
Synthesizer, ODU A/B Receiver
Synthesizer, and ODU Summary
faults reported?

Flashing Red

No

The bit rate of the Personality


Module on the RF Assembly
Complete does not match the bit rate
of the IDU; or

The ribbon cable inside the ODU is


loose or only partially connected.

These faults usually occur after changing


the RF Basic Assembly.

Yes
The low band and high band
IDUs have been reversed. Use
the LMT Link tab dialog to
configure the correct channel
plan.

C-6

A failure has occurred


in the ODU. Replace
either the affected RF
Basic Assembly or the
entire ODU.

Digital Microwave Corporation

Local Maintenance Terminal User Guide

Protected/Non-Protected Systems: Input Faults


The INPUT LED on the front panel of a SPECTRUM II IDU illuminates under
each of two conditions:

The INPUT LED illuminates in red when user traffic is absent or other
traffic input faults are detected on a tributary that has been enabled for fault
alerts. A Tributary n Input Fault alert also appears on the LMT online
Faults report; or

The INPUT LED illuminates in amber when unexpected traffic is detected


on a tributary with a disabled fault alert status. A Tributary n
Unexpected Input fault alert also appears on the LMT online Faults
report.

Use the following chart to locate the source of input faults on either a protected
or non-protected SPECTRUM II radio terminal.

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Appendix C. Troubleshooting Charts

start
INPUT LED on IDU front
panel illuminates in solid
red or amber?
Yes
Is INPUT LED lit on one or
both IDUs in the protected
pair?
Both

Yes

Is this a protected system?

No

Is INPUT LED lit in


solid red or amber?

One
Is INPUT
LED(s) lit in
solid red or
amber?

Amber

Unexpected traffic has been


detected on a disabled tributary.
Check the LMT Tributaries tab
dialog box for current settings.
Enable the affected tributary. This
will clear the fault condition.

Amber

Red

Red
Check the LMT Tributaries
tab dialog box to verify that all
tributaries are configured
correctly. Are tributaries
properly enabled or disabled?

No

Check the LMT online Faults


report to determine which
tributary has a Tributary n
Input Fault alert. Go to the
Tributaries tab dialog box and
disable this tributary.

No

Check the LMT Tributaries


tab dialog box to verify that all
tributaries are configured
correctly. Are tributaries
properly enabled or disabled?

Yes

Yes

Is INPUT LED lit on both


IDUs in the protected pair?

Yes

Check the LMT online Faults report to determine


which tributary has a Tributary n Input Fault
alert. The cause of the problem can be linked to
one of the following three possible conditions:
1.

No data signal is being received from the


terminating equipment connected to one or
both IDUs.

2.

The cable connecting terminating


equipment connected to one or both IDU(s)
is faulty.

3.

One or both IDUs are faulty. (On a


protected system, it is highly unlikely that
both IDUs are faulty.)

No

Because the INPUT LED is lit on only one IDU in


the protected pair, data from the terminating
equipment is OK. The cause of the problem can be
linked to one of the following three possible
conditions:
1.

A faulty Y cable is being used on a


protected 1U IDU configuration.

2.

A faulty relay/transformer card is being used


in 4U IDU configuration shelving.

3.

The IDU is faulty.

Isolate the cause of the fault condition and take


corrective action.

Isolate the cause of the fault condition and take


corrective action.

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Digital Microwave Corporation

Local Maintenance Terminal User Guide

Protected/Non-Protected Systems: Cable Faults


The CABLE LED on an IDU front panel illuminates in red when either:

The coax cable between the IDU and ODU is shorted or open; or

The 300 baud link between the ODU and the IDU is malfunctioning.

Use the following chart to locate the source of this condition on either a
protected or non-protected SPECTRUM II radio terminal.
start
CABLE LED on IDU
front panel
illuminates in red?
Yes
Yes

Check coax cable


connecting the IDU to the
ODU. Is cable open or
shorted?
No

No

Is this a protected system?

Yes

Yes
Replace cable.

Check coax cable


connecting the IDU to the
ODU. Is cable open or
shorted?
No

To verify that a 300 baud link problem


exists, open the ODU and check the DS2
LED. Is the DS2 LED flashing green?
No (Protected)

No (Non-protected)

)
The 300 baud link between the ODU and the IDU is
malfunctioning (a corollary ODU A/B Link Fault
alert appears on the LMT online Faults report). The
cable fault is caused by either a faulty ODU or IDU.
Either:

Replace the RF Assembly Complete; or

On a 1U system, replace the IDU. On a 4U


system, replace the IDU PIU.

The 300 baud link between the ODU and the


IDU is malfunctioning (a corollary ODU
A/B Link Fault alert appears on the LMT
online Faults report). The cable fault is
caused by either a faulty ODU or IDU.
Either:

Replace the ODU; or

On a 1U system, replace the IDU. On


a 4U system, replace the IDU PIU.

Alternate Method
Power down both IDUs in the protected pair. Then
switch the RG-6 cables. Recycle power to the IDUs:

If the cable fault remains with the same IDU,


replace the IDU.

If the cable fault switches to the other IDU in the


protected pair, the fault is in the corresponding
ODU. Replace either the affected RF Basic
Assembly or the entire ODU.

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Appendix C. Troubleshooting Charts

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Digital Microwave Corporation

Appendix D. Cable Pinout Diagrams

Top View of the RJ45-to-DB9F Cable Connection


The LMT software package shipped with every SPECTRUM II microwave radio
terminal includes an LMT cable (P/N 037-502010-960) used for connecting a
PC or laptop to the IDU of a SPECTRUM II radio. A top view look at the
corresponding RJ45-to-DB9F cable connection follows:

Top View: RJ45-to-DB9 Cable Connection

Side Views of the RJ45 and DB9F Cable Connectors


The next two illustrations show side views of the RJ45 and DB9F cable
connectors to assist you in locating the proper pin locations:

Side View: Pin Locations for the RJ45 Cable Connector

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Appendix D. Cable Pinout Diagrams

Side View: Pin Locations for the DB9F Cable Connector

Wiring Diagrams for the LMT Cable and Adaptor


Wiring diagrams for the RJ45-to-DB9F cable and the DB9F-to-DB25 adaptor
follow:

Wiring Diagram for the RJ45-to-DB9F Cable

Wiring Diagram for the DB9F-to-DB25 Adaptor

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Digital Microwave Corporation

Appendix E. Working with the LMT


Navigator

Getting Around in Help


Ever get lost as you stumble through Online Help? Returning continually to the
Contents topic to regain your bearings wastes time and adds to the frustration of
getting the information you need now. With the LMT Navigator, you can
maneuver through the LMT Online Help file quickly and easily. As you move
through the Help file, the LMT Navigator window is updated continuously so
you always know precisely where you are within the overall structure of the Help
file.

LMT Online Help Window

LMT Navigator Window

LMT Online Help Window with the LMT Navigator Window on Top

The floating LMT Navigator window displays the contents of the LMT Online
Help file in expandable outline form. You can use the Navigator outline to
check the organization of the Help topics. Or you can click on a heading (topic
title) in the outline and see the Help window for that topic. You can also use the
Navigator to print a single Help topic, a selected group of Help topics, or all the
topics in the Help file.

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Appendix E. Working with the LMT Navigator

Activating the Navigator


When you access Online Help, the LMT Online Help window and the LMT
Navigator window load automatically.
If the Help window is obscuring the Navigator window, click on the
Navigator button in the Help window menu bar. This action activates the
Navigator window. You can also choose Always On Top from the Options
menu in the Navigator window menu bar.

More About Navigator Window Features


The Navigator window includes three informational and navigational
featuresthe menu bar, the toolbar, and the status bar.

Menu bar

Toolbar

Status bar
An Example of LMT Navigator Window Features

These features let you perform specific tasks, customize window appearance,
save steps by clicking on a toolbar button instead of choosing a command, and
view information about the task you are performing currently or the menu item
or button your mouse pointer rests on now. Each of these Navigator features are
explored in greater detail in the sections that follow.

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Local Maintenance Terminal User Guide

About the Menu Bar


The menu bar located near the top of the Navigator window contains five
keywords. Choosing a keyword displays a pulldown menu of associated options
used to initiate a particular task.
This keyword

Displays these pulldown menu options

File

Print, used to print some or all Help topics.


Save Settings, used to save any changes you make to
Navigator settings (options, window positions, etc.).
Exit, used to exit the Navigator and close the window.

View

Toolbar, used to turn the Navigator toolbar on and off. A


check mark appears next to this option when the toolbar is
visible.
Status Bar, used to turn the Navigator status bar on and off.
A check mark appears next to this option when the status bar is
visible.

Topic

Previous, used to jump to the previous topic in the


Navigator outline. If the topic is currently collapsed into a
parent topic, the parent topic is expanded automatically.
Next, used to jump to the next topic in the Navigator outline.
If the topic is currently collapsed into a parent topic, the parent
topic is expanded automatically.
Parent, used to jump to a subtopics parent (or main) topic.
Expand, used to display the next level of subtopics under the
current topic.
Collapse, used to hide the display of subtopics for the current
topic.
Sync, used to make the Navigator topic window match the
LMT Online Help window.
Expand All, used to display all topics in the Navigator
window.
Collapse All, used to hide all topics in the Navigator
window

Options

Auto-Sync, used to turn this option on and off. A check mark


appears next to Auto-Sync when this option is enabled.
Enable Auto-Sync to have the Navigator topic window
always match the Help window.
Always On Top, used to turn this option on and off. A check
mark appears next to Always On Top when this option is
enabled. Enable Always On Top to have the Navigator
window always appear on top of the Help window.

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Appendix E. Working with the LMT Navigator

This keyword

Displays these pulldown menu options

Options (Contd)

Save Settings On Exit, used to turn this option on and off.


A check mark appears next to Save Settings On Exit when
this option is enabled. Enable Save Settings On Exit to
have the Navigator automatically save your window settings on
exit. Then choose Save Settings from the File menu to have
it take effect.
Font, used to specify a different font, font style, and size for
the Navigator windows outline text. To make your
customized settings the default, choose Save Settings from
the File menu.
Colors, used to change Navigator window text color and/or
background color.

Help

Contents, used to display the Contents screen for Navigator


Online Help.
Search, used list all the words you can search for in Navigator
Online Help.
About, used to display version information about the
Navigator tool.

About the Toolbar


The toolbar located immediately below the menu bar in the Navigator window
provides access to the most frequently used Navigator options and commands.
You can save a step by clicking on a toolbar button instead of choosing a menu
bar command. The Navigator toolbar includes the following buttons.
This button

Activates this Navigator function


Expand All. Expands all the topics in the Navigator
window at once.
Collapse All. Collapses all the topics in the Navigator
window at once.
Parent Topic. Jumps to the parent topic from the currently
selected topic.
Previous Topic. Jumps to the topic immediately before the
currently selected topic.
Next Topic. Jumps to the topic immediately following the
currently selected topic.
Font. Displays the Font dialog box used to change the font
for the list of topics in the Navigator window.
Print. Prints one or more topics.
Context-Sensitive Help. When you press this button,
your mouse pointer changes to a help pointer. You click this
help pointer over the item for which you want to get help.

To Turn the Toolbar On or Off


To turn the Navigator toolbar on or off, choose Toolbar from the View menu.
A check mark appears next to the Toolbar option when the toolbar is visible.

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Local Maintenance Terminal User Guide

About the Status Bar


The status bar located at the bottom of the Navigator window displays
information about the task selected or being performed:

To Turn the Status Bar On or Off


To turn the Navigator status bar on or off, choose Toolbar from the View
menu. A check mark appears next to the Status Bar option when the status bar
is visible.

Expanding and Collapsing Help Topics


To show all the topics and subtopics in the LMT Online Help file, choose
Expand All from the Topic menu. The LMT Navigator window displays an
expanded topics list as shown below.

Collapsed Topic
Expanded Topic
Selected Topic
Final Topic

An Example of the LMT Navigator Window with all


Topics Expanded

The icons displayed in the Navigator window reveal the level you are at
currently within the overall structure of the Help file. Navigator icons can also be
used to expand or collapse the contents outline.
This icon

Designates
A collapsed topic. This main topic (also called a parent topic) has
subtopics below it that are not currently displayed. Click on this icon to
expand the portion of the outline to show the subtopics below it.
An expanded topic. This main, or parent, topic has subtopics that are
currently displayed below it. Click on this icon to collapse the portion of
the outline that shows the subtopics below it.
A final topic. This topic has no further levels of subtopics. You cannot
expand or collapse a topic that displays this icon.

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Appendix E. Working with the LMT Navigator

Moving Sequentially Through Each Topic


Previous Topic and Next
Topic buttons

Use the Navigator toolbars Previous Topic and Next Topic buttons to browse
sequentially through the LMT Online Help file without being hampered by
pre-programmed browse sequences.

To Use the Previous Topic and Next Topic Buttons


The first two steps described below are not required to make use of the
Previous Topic and Next Topic buttons, but they may make them easier to
use and better reveal the results of their actions.
1.

Use the standard Microsoft Windows window sizing and moving controls
to make sure your screen has a clear view of both the LMT Navigator
window and the LMT Online Help window.

2.

Make sure that Always On Top is selected in the Navigator windows


Options menu.

3.

Click the toolbar Previous Topic and Next Topic buttons to scroll
backward and forward through the Help topics.

Synchronizing the Navigator with Online Help


As you scroll through the topic headings displayed in the LMT Navigator
window, you will quickly appreciate how well the LMT Online Help window is
kept synchronized with the Navigator window outline. You can also set the
Navigator outline to be in sync with the Help window. This way, when you
select a topic in the Help window, the Navigator outline heading is selected as
well.
The Navigator has two methods for staying in sync with a Help topic:

Synchronization on demand, which selects the Navigator outline


heading that matches the Help window topic. You access this option by
choosing Sync from the Navigator windows Topic menu.

Auto-Sync, which automatically selects the corresponding Navigator


outline heading each time a Help window topic changes.

To Set the Auto-Sync Option


To set the LMT Navigator window so that it remains synchronized with the
LMT Online Help window, choose Auto-Sync from the Navigator
windows Options menu.
Each time you select a topic in the Help window, the Navigator outline
automatically jumps to the corresponding heading in the outline. If the heading is
collapsed, the Navigator window expands the outline to show it.

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Digital Microwave Corporation

Local Maintenance Terminal User Guide

Printing a Help Topic


Another invaluable Navigator feature is the ability to print all the text and
graphics for one topic, for a topic and its subtopics, or for all the topics.

To Print One or More Help Topics


1.

From the Navigator outline, select the topic you want to print. If you are
printing a parent topic and its subtopics, make sure the parent topic is
selected. Then click the Print button located on the Navigator toolbar, or
choose Print from the File menu.

2.

When the Print dialog box appears, click on the print option you want,
then click OK.

An Example of the Print Dialog Box

If you are printing more than one topic, the Navigator begins each topic on
a separate page.

Changing Fonts in the Navigator Window


The Navigator has several options that let you customize the appearance of the
LMT Navigator window. One of these is the ability to specify a different font
for outline text.

To Change Fonts
Font button

1.

Click the Font button on the Navigator window toolbar.

2.

When the Font dialog box appears, choose the font, font style, and size that
you want. As you select each font, style, and size, some example text in the
format you have chosen appears in the Sample box.

An Example of the Font Dialog Box

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Appendix E. Working with the LMT Navigator

3.

Click OK. The headings in the Navigator window outline appear in the
font you selected.

4.

To make the font you selected the default the next time you use the
Navigator, choose Save Settings from the File menu.

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Digital Microwave Corporation

Glossary of Terms

A side/B side
Refers to the two sets of radio circuitry contained in a SPECTRUM II protected
radio. When a protected radio is set up, one set of radio circuitry in the protected
pair is labeled the A side (transmitter A; receiver A); the other set is labeled the
B side (transmitter B; receiver B). A side/B side labeling does not necessarily
correspond to how the two IDUs are physically cabled together. The A side radio
can be on either the top or the bottom.
The master IDU controls switching. The master can be either the A side or the B
side. Also see protected configuration.

AIS (Alarm Inhibit Signal)


A signal sent to the far end of the link when a radio detects a loss of traffic on
one or more E1/E3 or DS1/DS3 tributaries:

When AIS is enabled, a radio fault resulting in a loss of traffic on one or


more tributaries causes a signal to be inserted in associated tributaries and
propagated to downstream equipment to inhibit any related alarms.

When AIS is disabled, a loss of traffic alarm on one E1/E3 or DS1/DS3


tributary is propagated to all downstream equipment on the affected
tributary.

AMI (Alternate Mark Inversion)


Often referred to as bipolar coding. The binary line coding format used
primarily in North American DS1 transmission systems. Zeros are coded as the
absence of a pulse and ones are coded alternately as positive or negative pulses.
This type of coding reduces the average voltage level to zero to eliminate DC
spectral components, thereby eliminating DC wander. Also see LBO (line buildout) distance; line coding format.

antenna and mount


The transmit and receive interface for a microwave radio system. The antenna
and its waveguide provide the interface to the ODU. The diameter and shape of
the antenna may vary depending on the frequency band of the system and the
antenna manufacturer. Also see radio terminal.

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Glossary of Terms

attenuation
A general transmission term used to denote an adjustment in signal strength. A
decrease in attenuation level causes an increase in power level. An increase in
attenuation level causes a decrease in power. Attenuation is measured in decibels
(dB).

B8ZS (Binary 8 Zero Substitution)


The line coding format used in DS1 transmission systems. For every string of 8
zeros, bipolar code is substituted according to the following rules:
1.

If the immediate preceding pulse is of (-) polarity, then each group of 8


zeros is coded as 000-+0+-.

2.

If the immediate preceding pulse is of (+) polarity, then each group of 8


zeros is coded as 000+-0-+.

In addition to eliminating DC wander, the B8ZS coding scheme minimizes


timing jitter and allows a line error monitoring capability. Also see line coding
format; LIO (line interface options).

BER (bit error rate)


BER measures, in real time, the amount of bits in error per a fixed amount of bits
transmitted/received. Bit error rates are expressed in the following categories:
10-3, 10-4, 10-5, 10-6, and 10-7. For example, a BER rate of 10-3 means there is 1
bit in error out of 103 (1000) bits transmitted or received; a BER rate of 10-4
means there is 1 bit in error out of 104 (10,000) bits transmitted or received.

bit rate
The number of bits of data transmitted per second. For SPECTRUM II radios,
the bit rate specification designates the capacity of the digital transmission link
and the number of available traffic tributaries. For example:

A radio bit rate specification of 4 x E1 designates that the radio has four
input and output tributaries and transmits data at a rate of 2.048 megabytes
per second.

A radio bit rate specification of 1 x E3 designates that the radio has one
input and output tributary and transmits data at a rate of 34.368 megabytes
per second.

A radio bit rate specification of 8 x DS1 designates that the radio has eight
input and output tributaries and transmits data at a rate of 1.544 megabytes
per second.

A radio bit rate specification of 1 x DS3 designates that the radio has one
input and output tributary and transmits data at a rate of 44.736 megabytes
per second.

Also see DS1; DS3; E1; E3.

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Local Maintenance Terminal User Guide

Boot software
Software used to initialize the IDU, enabling basic communications with the
LMT. At boot-level, the IDU is able to accept IDU software downloads from the
LMT. A radio is non-operational while at boot-level.

channel plan
The specific sub-band a radio operates within. Radios are licensed to operate
within a certain frequency band. Each frequency band is organized into specific
sub-bands (called channel plans). Each channel plan encompasses a specific
frequency range. The Transceiver ID and Synthesizer ID of a radio determine
which channel plans are available to the radio.
Two types of channel plans exist:

Channel plans that are recognized and used internationally. These are
called standard channel plans.

Channel plans that are customer-developed to address situations where a


needed frequency is not available in the standard channel plans. These are
called custom channel plans. A custom channel plan contains a range of
possible operating channel transmit and receive frequency pairs for a given
operating band and data rate.

Also see CUSTFREQ.MDB; frequency band; high band channel; low band
channel; STDFREQ.MDB.

COM port
A serial port located on your PC or laptop and used for connecting external
equipment to your computer. By default, the LMT application uses COM2 to
talk to an IDU.

Configuration Card
An IDU circuit card that contains an electronically erasable programmable readonly memory (EEPROM) used to maintain the configuration of a radio terminal.
Radio configuration parameters, once sent from the LMT to an IDU, are stored
on this circuit card. Also see current radio configuration.

configuration file
A file containing configuration values set for the two radios operating in a given
microwave link. Configuration files are created for archival purposes and to use
as a template for setting configuration parameters for a SPECTRUM II radio
of the same radio type, frequency band, and data rate capacity.

current radio configuration


Refers to radio configuration data (bit rate, radio type, Link ID, transmit and
receive frequencies, etc.) stored on the Configuration Card in an IDU. The
current radio configuration is used to control radio operation. Also see
Configuration Card.

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Glossary of Terms

CUSTFREQ.MDB
An LMT initialization file containing one or more custom channel plans. The
LMT uses the CUSTFREQ.MDB file in conjunction with the DIPLEXER.INI
file to validate or calculate the frequency band and channel(s) within which a
given radio terminal can operate. Also see channel plan; custom frequencies.

custom frequencies
Channel plans that are customer-developed to address situations where a needed
frequency is not available in the standard channel plans. A custom channel plan
contains a range of frequency pair options to choose from. The number of
channels generated within the operating band of a radio is controlled both by the
T/R and T/T spacing values you select and by and the diplexer hardware
installed in the radio. Diplexer hardware determines the maximum number of
adjacent transmit/receive frequencies, separated by a transmit/receive channel
separation value to avoid interference.
The LMT Custom Frequencies function is available only on Voltage Controlled
Oscillator (VCO)-Multiplier SPECTRUM II radios.
Also see channel plan; CUSTFREQ.MDB; T/R (Transmit to Receive) spacing;
T/T (Transmit to Transmit) spacing.

DS1
A digital transmission system that carries data at the rate of 1.544 Mbps. DS1
systems are used by North American carriers to transmit 24 digital tributaries for
voice or data, each one digitized at 64 Kbps. Also see bit rate.

DS3
A digital transmission system that carries data at the rate of 44.736 Mbps. DS3
systems are used by North American carriers. DS3 systems can handle 672
tributaries (the equivalent of 28 DS1 lines). Also see bit rate.

dBm
An abbreviation for decibels referred to 1 milliwatt:

A decibel (dB) is a unit of measure of signal strength, usually the relation


between a transmitted signal and a standard signal source. For example, 6
dB of loss means that there is a 6 dB difference between what arrives down
a communications circuit and what was transmitted by a standard signal
generator.

While the decibel is a unit of comparison, it is useful to have an agreed


reference as a base so that powers, voltages, or sound pressures can be
compared with it. A common practice is to refer powers to 1 milliwatt
(1 mW), indicated by dBm. For example, a level of +3 dBm means that the
signal in question is 3 dB above 1 mW (=2 mW). Similarly, a level of
-3 dBm means the signal is 3 dB below 1 mW (=.5 mW).

Under ideal conditions, a change in level of 1 dB is barely perceptible. Increases


or reductions of 3 dB result in doubling or halving the power in a circuit. This

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Local Maintenance Terminal User Guide

ratio is handy to remember when evaluating power differences. The


corresponding figure for doubling or halving voltage is 6 dB.

DIPLEXER.INI
An LMT initialization file containing diplexer tuning ranges. The diplexer
hardware used by a specific radio terminal determines the maximum number of
adjacent transmit/receive frequencies, separated by a transmit/receive channel
separation value to avoid interference. The LMT uses values contained in the
DIPLEXER.INI file to calculate the individual channels within a given
frequency band.

DMC Net
A network management system developed by DMC for fault monitoring and
control of multiple links operating in a communications network. DMC Net can
be used with every DMC product family for providing fault telemetry,
diagnostics, maintenance, and control of DMC radio equipment from one
location.

E1
A digital transmission system that carries data at the rate of 2.048 Mbps. E1
systems are used by European CEPT (Conference of European Postal and
Telecommunication Administration) carriers to transmit 30, 64 Kbps digital
tributaries for voice or data, plus a 64 Kbps tributary for signaling and a 64 Kbps
tributary for framing and maintenance. Also see bit rate.

E3
A digital transmission system that carries data at the rate of 34.368 Mbps. E3
systems are used by European CEPT (Conference of European Postal and
Telecommunication Administration) carriers to transmit 480, 64 Kbps digital
tributaries for voice or data, plus a 64 Kbps tributary for signaling and a 64 Kbps
tributary for framing and maintenance. Also see bit rate.

external loopback test


LMT loopback tests that use test patterns coming in from external user
equipment. The LMT does not capture or report per-tributary error statistics for
external loopback tests. The number of error occurrences, if any, are captured
and handled by the external source. Also see internal loopback test; loopback
tests.

far end radio


In a microwave link, the radio terminal logically connected to your PC or laptop
via the LMT. The far end radio communicates with the LMT application over
the microwave link. The radio terminal at the other end of the link is called the
near end radio and is physically connected to your computer. Also see
microwave link; radio terminal.

300-610007-001

Rev 1b, May 1998

G-5

Glossary of Terms

fault
An indication of a malfunction occurring in the equipment at the near end or far
end of a link, or in the transmission path between the two radios. Fault events are
captured and reported by the LMT. Fault conditions are of varying levels of
severity:

A major fault condition results in a loss of traffic across the link. (On a
protected radio terminal, the backup circuitry would be placed in service
automatically at this point. If the backup circuits can correct the problem,
the fault condition is reported as a minor fault.) Some examples of major
faults are the IDU Cable Fault and the ODU Deviation Fault.

A minor fault condition may or may not be associated with loss of traffic or
downtime (loss of tributary input is reported as a minor fault although loss
of traffic does occur). Some other examples of minor faults are the IDU
Fan Fault and the ODU Temperature Fault.

Some reported fault conditions are merely informational messages


concerning current radio or link status. For example, the Receiver
Locked Online fault and the Transmitter Automatic fault.

frequency band
Microwave radios are licensed to operate within a specific frequency band (7
gigahertz (GHz), 15 GHz, 38 GHz, etc.). Frequency bands are established by the
governing agency within which the radio is authorized to operate. Frequency is
the rate at which an electrical current alternates, usually measured in cycles per
second (hertz). Gigahertz is a measurement of the frequency of a signal
equivalent to one billion cycles per second, or 109.
To eliminate or reduce interference between other radios operating within the
same frequency, each frequency band is further separated into specific sub-bands
(we call them channel plans) and channels. Bands and channels are separated by
a specific megahertz value, a measurement of the frequency of a signal
equivalent to one million, or 106, cycles per second. Also see channel plan; high
band channel; low band channel.

high band channel


A channel plan (sub-band) in which the transmit frequency is higher than the
receive frequency. High band channels are the inverse of low band channels,
which employ transmitting frequencies that are lower than their receiving
frequencies. High band receivers are set to the frequencies of low band
transmitters and low band receivers are set to the frequencies of high band
transmitters. Also see channel plan; frequency band; low band channel.

hop
A typical microwave hop consists of two radio terminals operating on the same
channel. The telemetry required between the two radio terminals in a hop to
accommodate LMT operation is carried over what is known as a digital
communication channel. This dedicated overhead channel does not occupy any
of the users digital lines or available service tributaries.

G-6

Digital Microwave Corporation

Local Maintenance Terminal User Guide

IDU (Indoor Unit)


A digital modem used for interfacing with digital terminal equipment. Status and
fault indicators are provided on the front panel of the IDU for visually
monitoring system status and faults. In addition, a pushbutton switch on the front
panel, when depressed, allows indication of the far end terminal status and faults.
The IDU of each terminal can be physically connected to user termination
equipment, and to the LMT via your PC or laptop. Also see radio terminal.

internal loopback test


LMT loopback tests that use digital pattern generator/checker test circuitry built
right into the IDU. The internal loopback pattern generator produces a test
pattern used to confirm correct operation of all circuitry in the IDU. Test results
are captured and reported by the LMT. Also see external loopback test;
loopback tests.

LBO (line build-out) distance


Per enabled DS1/DS3 tributary, the length of the cable (line build-out distance)
between the data source and the IDU. LBO choices for DS1 tributaries include:

0 - 133 ft.

133 - 266 ft.

266 - 399 ft.

399 - 533 ft.

533 - 655 ft.

LBO choices for DS3 tributaries include:

0 - 120 ft.

120 - 450 ft.

Also see LIO (line interface options).

line coding format


Per enabled DS1 tributary, the encoding scheme configured for the tributary.
Available options include AMI and B8ZS. Also see AMI (Alternate Mark
Inversion); B8ZS (Binary 8 Zero Substitution).

LIO (line interface options)


Per enabled DS1 tributary, the encoding scheme (channel line coding format)
and line build-out distance (the length of the cable between the data source and
the IDU) configured for the tributary. Also see AMI (Alternate Mark Inversion);
B8ZS (Binary 8 Zero Substitution); LBO (line build-out) distance; line coding
format.

300-610007-001

Rev 1b, May 1998

G-7

Glossary of Terms

LMT (Local Maintenance Terminal)


A windows-based software application developed by Digital Microwave
Corporation for configuring, monitoring, and managing SPECTRUM II
Microwave Radio Systems from a personal computer (PC) or laptop. All radio
set up and configuration is done through the LMT.
Other key LMT features are available for monitoring and troubleshooting system
status and performance, testing radio and link operation, temporarily disabling
monitored hot-standby switching on a protected radio for backup maintenance,
upgrading SPECTRUM II software, and creating custom frequencies. You can
also use the LMT as a portable maintenance tool for adjusting radio frequencies
and attenuation levels, enabling and disabling fault alerts on radio tributaries,
and more.

LMT Navigator tool


An efficient and intuitive tool that lets you maneuver through LMT Online Help
quickly and easily. The LMT Navigator displays the entire structure of the LMT
Online Help file in expandable outline form and lets you jump immediately to
any Help topic at any level. The LMT Navigator window is updated
continuously as you move through the LMT Online Help file so that the
Navigator and LMT Online Help are always in sync. You can also use the LMT
Navigator to print some or all LMT Online Help topics. Also see Online Help
Facility.

locking controls
An LMT feature used to temporarily override monitored hot-standby switching
on a SPECTRUM II protected radio configuration by locking on one side of a
protected pair. The locking controls feature is part of the Locking & Software
function.
You can lock a protected pairs transmitter and receiver independently of each
other, and of the transmitters and receivers at the far end of the link. For
example, the transmit functions of the A side radio can be selected to operate
with the receive functions of the B side radio, or vice-versa.
The LMT locking controls feature is useful during system troubleshooting, or to
manually operate around a faulty component before or during repair. Also see
protected configuration.

loopback tests
Various LMT diagnostic tests used for verifying cable, radio, and link operation.
Four types of loopback tests are available:

G-8

The Input loopback test, used to check the input/output cables and
connections between attached external equipment and the near end IDU.

Digital loopback tests, used to check the digital circuits (modem and mux)
of the near end IDU.

Local loopback tests, used to check the IF (Intermediate Frequency),


modem, and multiplex circuits of the near end IDU.

Digital Microwave Corporation

Local Maintenance Terminal User Guide

Remote loopback tests, used to check all the circuits of both radios at
either end of a link, including the antennas and the path in between. These
tests are run to confirm the existence of an operational transmission path
between the two radio terminals, and to verify individual tributaries. (If the
LMT is connected to only the near end radio, Remote loopback testing is
unavailable.)

Digital, Local, and Remote loopback tests can use a test pattern that either
originates internal to the IDU, or that is injected into the system from an external
test source. The Input loopback test uses externally-generated input only
either a test pattern or other data supplied by the attached user equipment. Also
see external loopback tests; internal loopback tests.

low band channel


A channel plan (sub-band) in which the transmit frequency is lower than the
receive frequency. Low band channels are the inverse of high band channels,
which employ transmitting frequencies that are higher than their receiving
frequencies. High band receivers are set to the frequencies of low band
transmitters and low band receivers are set to the frequencies of high band
transmitters. Also see channel plan; frequency band; high band channel.

master IDU
In a protected configuration, the radio in the protected pair that handles all
communication with the microwave link and controls the terminal. Examples of
terminal control functions include IDU switching and performance monitoring.
The other radio in the protected pair functions in an auxiliary capacity. The
master radio is the radio that is powered up first. Shutting the master radio down
turns the auxiliary radio into the master radio.
The LMT should always be connected to the master radio. To determine which
IDU in a protected pair is the master, look at the Near End terminal information
on the Link Status window. Both the laptop icon and the work Master should be
parallel to either the A or the B IDU. Also see protected configuration.

microwave link
A typical microwave link consists of two radio terminals operating in the same
frequency band. The telemetry required between the two radio terminals in a link
to accommodate LMT operation is carried over what is known as a digital
communication channel. This dedicated overhead channel does not occupy any
of your digital lines or available service tributaries.

MHSB (monitored hot-standby switching)


A radio configuration feature in which two sets of circuitry are arranged in
tandem (transmitter A and B; receiver A and B), with one set in back-up mode in
case a failure occurs in the online circuitry. A microprocessor monitors the
online circuitry and switches to the back-up circuitry if a failure is detected.
Protected systems are designated as SPECTRUM II protected radios. Also see
locking controls.

300-610007-001

Rev 1b, May 1998

G-9

Glossary of Terms

near end radio


In a microwave link, the radio terminal physically connected to your PC or
laptop. The radio at the other end of the link is called the far end radio and is
logically connected to your computer via the LMT. Also see microwave link;
radio terminal.

non-protected configuration
A radio configuration in which there is only one transmitter and one receiver,
with no built-in protection. Non-protected systems are designated as
SPECTRUM II NP radios.

Online Help Facility


A full-featured online capability to assist you in configuring, monitoring, and
managing SPECTRUM II systems. The LMT Online Help Facility provides a
convenient, quick way to look up information about a task you are performing, a
feature you want to investigate, or an action you want to initiate. Help is
available whenever you see Help as an item on a window menu bar.
The Online Help Facility includes the LMT Navigator, an efficient and intuitive
tool that lets you maneuver through LMT Online Help quickly and easily. Also
see LMT Navigator tool.

ODU (Outdoor Unit)


A radio frequency (RF) unit used for converting a baseband signal from the
modem to a microwave signal. The ODU provides the interface between the
antenna and the IDU and is designed to be mounted with the antenna on the
antenna mount. Also see radio terminal.

protected configuration
A radio configuration in which two sets of circuitry are arranged in tandem
(transmitter A and B; receiver A and B), with one set in back-up mode in case a
failure occurs in the online circuitry. A microprocessor monitors the online
circuitry and switches to the back-up circuitry if a failure is detected. Protected
systems are designated as SPECTRUM II P radios. Also see locking controls.

radio terminal
A typical microwave radio consists of three basic components: an Indoor Unit
(IDU), an Outdoor Unit (ODU), and an antenna and antenna mount. The
combination of these three components is referred to as a radio terminal.

G-10

Digital Microwave Corporation

Local Maintenance Terminal User Guide

relay
A Form C relay output on a SPECTRUM II radio terminal. A maximum of four
relay fault conditions or events can be optionally tracked and activated by each
radio terminal. Connections for alarm relays are located on the DB37 connector
labeled "ALARM" on the IDU front panel.
Using the LMT, you can set each relay to operate under a specific fault condition
or event. When the corresponding fault condition or event occurs, the relay
closes.

RF (radio frequency)
The part of the electromagnetic spectrum used for various communication
purposes. RF is typically considered to be between 1 MHz and 100 GHz. Also
see ODU (Outdoor Unit); radio terminal.

RSSI (received signal strength indicator)


The strength of the received signal, measured in dBm. Also see dBm.

STDFREQ.MDB
An LMT initialization file containing either standard channel plan definitions for
all SPECTRUM II frequency rates and channels, or the values used by the LMT
for calculating these definitions.
SPECTRUM II Microwave Radio Systems are available in different operating
frequency bands and various data rates. The LMT uses the STDFREQ.MDB file
to validate or calculate the frequency band and channel(s) within which a given
radio terminal can operate. Also see channel plan.

T/R (Transmit to Receive) spacing


Within a given channel, the amount of separation, expressed in megahertz,
between the transmit frequency and the corresponding receive frequency. T/R
spacing is determined by the channel plans authorized for use by the regulatory
authorities in your country. Also see frequency band.

T/T (Transmit to Transmit) spacing


Between two adjacent channels, the amount of separation, expressed in
megahertz, between the center transmit frequency of one channel and the center
transmit frequency of the adjacent channel. The range of T/T spacing values is
set by the bit rate of the radio (for example: 4 x E1; 1 x E3; or 8 x DS1). Also
see frequency band.

300-610007-001

Rev 1b, May 1998

G-11

Glossary of Terms

tributary
A connection point on a microwave radio where base station equipment,
switches, and multiplexers are connected. SPECTRUM II radios are available in
2, 4, 8, and 16 tributary configurations. You can enable some or all of these
tributaries for sending and receiving radio traffic.

G-12

Digital Microwave Corporation

auxiliary IDU
definition of G-9
determining 2-3

Index

1
1U IDU configuration
changing protection settings for 3-13-8
connecting to
via cable 2-12-3
via modem 2-32-4
connection states for 2-52-7
description of 1-7
determining master IDU 2-3, 3-5

4
4U IDU configuration
connecting to
via cable 2-3
via modem 2-32-4
connection states for 2-52-7
description of 1-8

A
A side/B side
definition of G-1
labeling 3-23-5
locking on 6-7
active IDU software 8-2
AIS (Alarm Inhibit Signal)
configuring 4-18
definition of G-1
AMI (Alternate Mark Inversion)
configuring 4-12
definition of G-1
antenna
definition of G-1
usage of 1-5
attenuation level
configuring 4-18
definition of G-2
Auto/Lock indicator 1-13

300-610007-001

Rev 1b, May 1998

B8ZS (Binary 8 Zero Substitution)


configuring 4-12
definition of G-2
BER Fault
description of 4-84-9
troubleshooting charts for C-2C-5
BER thresholds
exceeding 4-84-9
setting 4-18
troubleshooting charts for C-2C-5
bit error rate
definition of G-2
exceeding 4-84-9
setting thresholds for 4-18
testing 6-2
troubleshooting charts for C-2C-5
bit rate definition G-2
Boot & ODU report 5-11
boot-level software
definition of 5-12, G-3
initializing 2-7, 8-8
part number schemes for 5-95-10
version information for 5-11

C
Cable Fault
description of 4-8
troubleshooting chart for C-9
cable length See LBO (line build-out) options
cable pinouts
for LMT cable and adaptor D-2
for RJ45-to-DB9 cable connectors D-1D-2
channel plans
configuring 2-5, 4-7
custom plans
creating 9-69-7
definition of G-4
deleting 9-9
modifying 9-89-9
names for 9-4
definition of 4-7, G-3
unavailability of 2-6, 4-3
updating A-2
COM port
connecting to 2-22-3
definition of G-3
selecting 2-8

I-1

Index

Configuration Card
definition of G-3
usage of 4-14-3
configuration files
creating 4-4
definition of G-3
deleting 4-23
printing 4-22
saving 4-21
sending 4-20
using 4-24-4
Configure Radios
functional description for 4-14-23
window for 4-24-5
configuring
from file 4-24-4
from radio 4-24-3, G-3
link parameters 4-64-7
other parameters 4-174-19
protection preference parameters 4-154-16
relay parameters 4-84-10
tributary parameters 4-114-15
connection states 2-52-7
current radio configuration definition G-3
Current Radio Settings reports
Boot & ODU report 5-11
IDU Software report 5-9
Line Options report 5-13
Other report 5-13
Tributaries report 5-12
CUSTFREQ.MDB file
adding a plan 9-69-7
definition of G-4
deleting a plan 9-9
modifying a plan 9-89-9
unavailability of 2-6, 4-3
using A-9, G-4
Custom Frequencies
window for 9-5

D
dBm definition G-4
Deframe Fault 4-9
Diagnostic Active status B-2
Digital loopback testing
description of 6-3, G-8
impact on traffic 6-6
locking requirements for 6-7
running 6-86-10
DIPLEXER.INI file
definition of G-5

I-2

DMC Net
definition of 1-4, G-5
fault condition for 4-9
network address for
configuring 4-19
current setting for 5-13
definition of 4-17
DS1/DS3 tributaries
configuring 4-114-15
current settings for 5-13
definition of G-4
line interface options
configuring 4-114-15
current settings for 5-13
definition of G-2

E
E1/E3 tributaries
configuring 4-114-13
definition of G-5
encoding scheme
configuring 4-114-15
current settings for 5-13
definition of G-1, G-7
External alarms, reporting 5-7
External Fault B-2
external loopback tests
definition of G-5
impact on traffic 6-6
running 6-86-10
usage of 6-2

F
Far End Fault 4-9, B-2
far end radio
configuring 4-14-23
connection status for 1-9
definition of 1-4, G-5
Fault & Performance Management reports
External report 5-7
Faults report 5-4
Performance report 5-6
Relay report 5-7
resetting 5-16
RSSI report 5-5
Fault indicator 1-13
faults
definition of G-6
for radio B-1B-6
for relays 4-84-10
logging to file 5-15
reporting 5-4
resetting 5-16

Digital Microwave Corporation

Local Maintenance Terminal User Guide

troubleshooting charts for C-1C-9


Faults & Reports
functional description for 5-15-20
window for 5-35-4
Force Close status 4-9
Force Open status 4-9
frequency band definition G-6
function bar, LMT 1-14
functions
Configure Radios 4-14-23
Faults & Reports 5-15-20
Locking & Software 7-17-3, 8-18-8
Loopback Tests 6-16-10
Online Help 1-171-19
Protection Settings 3-13-8

G
Go To Fault Log button 1-9

H
hardware prerequisites, LMT xiiixv
high band channel definition G-6
hop definition G-6
HPA (high power amplifier) option 5-13

I
IDU
connecting to
1U IDU 2-12-3
4U IDU 2-3
connection states for 2-52-7
retrying 2-72-9
via cable 2-22-3
via modem 2-32-4
connection states for 2-52-7
definition of G-7
rebooting 8-8
software for
definition of 5-11
part number schemes for 5-95-10
version information for 5-11
software upgrading
activating 8-78-8
downloading 8-28-6
recommendations for 8-18-2
usage of 1-5
IDU Bipolar Violation Fault B-2
IDU Cable Fault B-2
IDU Configuration Fault B-3
IDU Fan Fault B-3
IDU Fault 4-9
IDU Protected Serial Link Fault B-3

300-610007-001

Rev 1b, May 1998

IDU Receiver Deframe Fault B-3


IDU Reset Fault B-3
IDU Silent Transmitter Failure Fault B-3
IDU Temperature Fault B-3
inactive IDU software 8-2
Input Fault
description of 4-9
troubleshooting chart for C-7
Input loopback testing
description of 6-1, 6-3, G-8
impact on traffic 6-6
locking requirements for 6-7
running 6-86-10
installation procedures
for channel plan updates A-10A-14
for LMT software A-1A-9
internal loopback tests
definition of G-7
impact on traffic 6-6
running 6-86-10
usage of 6-2

L
LBO (line build-out) distance
configuring 4-12
definition of G-7
legacy part number scheme 5-10
line coding format
configuring 4-12
definition of G-1, G-7
link definition G-9
Link ID
configuring 4-64-7
current setting for 1-9
definition of 4-7
Link is up/down indicator 1-13
link parameters 4-64-7
Link Status
button for 1-10
window for 1-91-10
LIO (line interface options)
configuring 4-114-15
definition of G-1, G-2, G-7
reporting 5-13
LMT See Local Maintenance Terminal
Local loopback testing
description of 6-4, G-8
impact on traffic 6-6
locking requirements for 6-7
running 6-86-10

I-3

Index

Local Maintenance Terminal


cable connection pinouts for D-1D-2
connecting to
connection states for 2-52-7
non-protected 1U IDU configuration 2-2
protected 1U IDU configuration 2-3
protected 4U IDU configuration 2-3
retrying 2-72-9
via cable 2-22-3
via modem 2-32-4
connection states for 2-52-7
definition of G-8
exiting 1-16
functional descriptions for
accessing Online Help 1-171-19
changing protection settings 3-13-8
configuring radios 4-14-23
monitoring link status and performance 5-15-20
running loopback tests 6-16-10
upgrading radio software 8-18-8
hardware prerequisites for xiiixv
installing A-1A-9
navigational features for 1-121-14
Online Help Facility
definition of G-10
Navigator tool 1-17, E-1E-8, G-8
using 1-171-19
software prerequisites for xiiixv
starting 1-111-12
window descriptions
for Configure Radios 4-24-5
for Custom Frequencies 9-5
for Faults & Reports 5-35-4
for Link Status 1-9
for LMT Navigator E-2E-5
for Locking & Software 7-27-3, 8-3
for Loopback Tests 6-86-10
for Online Help 1-171-19
for Protection Settings 3-2
locking controls G-8
loopback testing
duration of 6-7
impact on traffic 6-6
locking requirements for 6-7
running 6-86-10
test pattern sources 6-2
test results for 6-10
types of
Digital 6-1, 6-3, G-8
Input 6-1, 6-3, G-8
Local 6-1, 6-4, G-8
Remote 6-1, 6-5, G-9
Loopback Tests
functional description for 6-16-10
window for 6-86-10

I-4

low band channel


configuring 4-7
definition of G-9
reference frequency for 9-3

M
Major Alarm 4-9, G-6
Major Fault B-4
master IDU
definition of G-9
determining 2-3
menu bar, LMT 1-12
Minor Fault 4-9, B-4, G-6
monitored hot-standby switching
definition of 1-6, G-9, G-10
disabling 1-6

N
Navigator tool
accessing 1-18, E-2
definition of G-8
using 1-17, E-1E-8
near end radio
configuring 4-14-23
connection status for 1-9
definition of 1-4, G-10
Network ID
configuring 4-17
current setting for 5-13
definition of 4-17
new part number schemes 5-9
non-protected configurations
changing protection settings for 3-63-8
connecting to
via cable 2-2
via modem 2-32-4
definition of G-10
usage of 1-6

O
ODU
definition of G-10
software for
definition of 5-12
part number schemes for 5-95-10
version information for 5-12
usage of 1-5
ODU Configuration Fault B-4
ODU Deviation Fault B-4
ODU Fault
description of 4-9
troubleshooting chart for C-6

Digital Microwave Corporation

Local Maintenance Terminal User Guide

ODU Link Fault B-4


ODU Power Amplifier Fault B-4
ODU Power Supply Fault B-5
ODU Receiver Synthesizer Fault B-5
ODU Reference Synthesizer Fault B-5
ODU Temperature Fault B-5
ODU Transmitter Synthesizer Fault B-5
Online Help Facility
definition of G-10
Navigator tool
accessing 1-18
description of G-8
using 1-17
using 1-171-19
online reports
categories
Current Radio Settings 5-95-13
Fault & Performance Management 5-45-8
deleting 5-20
printing 5-18
resetting 5-16
saving to file 5-17
viewing 5-145-15
Orderwire ID
configuring 4-19
current setting for 5-13
definition of 4-17
Other report 5-13

P
part number schemes 5-95-10
performance statistics
reporting 5-6
resetting 5-16
protected configurations
1U IDU
A side/B side labeling 3-23-5
connecting to via cable 2-2
connecting to via modem 2-32-4
description of 1-7
determining master IDU 2-3, 3-5
4U IDU
changing protection settings for 3-1
connecting to via cable 2-3
connecting to via modem 2-32-4
description of 1-8
changing protection settings for 3-23-5
definition of 1-6, G-9, G-10
locking and unlocking 6-7, 7-17-3
setting preferences for 4-154-16
upgrading IDU software for 8-18-2
Protection Settings
functional description for 3-13-8
windows for 3-33-8

300-610007-001

Rev 1b, May 1998

R
Radio Name 4-7
radio terminal
attenuation level
configuring 4-18
definition of G-2
configuring
from file 4-24-4, 4-24-4
from radio 4-24-3, G-3
link parameters 4-64-7
other parameters 4-174-19
protection preferences 4-154-16
relay parameters 4-84-10
tab dialog boxes for 4-64-19
tributaries 4-114-15
connecting to
connection states for 2-52-7
retrying 2-72-9
via cable 2-22-3
via modem 2-32-4
connection states for 2-52-7
connection status for 1-9
definition for G-10
definitions for
antenna 1-5
auxiliary IDU G-9
far end radio 1-4, G-5
IDU 1-5
link 1-4, G-9
master IDU G-9
monitored hot-standby switching G-9, G-10
near end radio 1-4, G-10
non-protected configuration G-10
ODU 1-5, G-10
protected configuration 1-6, G-9, G-10
relays G-11
faults
for radio B-1B-6
for relays 4-84-10
LMT cable connection pinouts D-1D-2
non-protected configurations
changing protection settings for 3-63-8
usage of 1-6
protected configurations
1U IDU 1-7, 2-3, 3-1
4U IDU 1-8, 2-3
changing protection settings for 3-23-5
locking and unlocking 6-7
setting preferences for 4-154-16
usage of 1-6
traffic interruptions for
loopback testing 6-6
sending radio configurations 4-20
troubleshooting charts for C-1C-9

I-5

Index

receiver
locking and unlocking 7-17-3
preferences for
configuring 4-154-16
current settings for 1-10
Receiver Automatic status B-5
Receiver High BER Fault B-5
Receiver Locked Online status B-6
Receiver Low BER Fault B-5
Receiver Online status B-5
Receiver Summary Fault B-5
Relay n status B-6
Relay report 5-7
relays
configuring 4-84-10
current settings for 5-13
definition of G-11
fault/status descriptions 4-84-10
Remote loopback testing
description of 6-5, G-9
impact on traffic 6-6
locking requirements for 6-7
running 6-86-10
reports
Boot & ODU 5-11
External 5-7
Faults 5-4
IDU software 5-11
Line Options 5-13
Other 5-13
Performance 5-6
Relays 5-7
RSSI 5-5
Tributaries 5-12
Reset Options 5-16
RF (radio frequency)
definition of G-11
setting 2-7, 4-1
RSSI statistics
definition of G-11
reporting 5-5
resetting 5-16
Rx Fault 4-9

S
Site Name 4-7
software
for IDU
definition of 5-11
upgrading 8-18-8
version information for 5-11
for LMT
prerequisites for xiiixv
for ODU

I-6

definition of 5-11
version information for 5-11
part number schemes for 5-95-10
SPECTRUM II part numbers
scheme for
legacy part numbers 5-10
schemes for
LMT and IDU part numbers 5-9
ODU and Boot part numbers 5-9
STDFREQ.MDB file
definition of G-11
replacing A-10A-14
unavailability of 2-6, 4-3
system conditions bar 1-13

T
T/R spacing constraints 9-3, G-11
T/T spacing constraints 9-3, G-11
Telemetry Failure fault B-6
Test indicator 1-13, 6-8
test pattern sources 6-2
traffic interruptions for
loopback testing 6-6
sending radio configurations 4-20
transmitter
locking and unlocking 7-17-3
preferences for
configuring 4-154-16
current settings for 1-10
Transmitter Automatic status B-6
Transmitter Locked Online status B-6
Transmitter Online status B-6
Transmitter Summary Fault B-6
tributaries
configuring 4-114-15
current settings for 5-12
reporting 5-12
Tributary n Input Fault B-6
Tributary n Unexpected Input status B-6
troubleshooting charts
for BER Faults C-2C-5
for Cable Faults C-9
for Input Faults C-7
for ODU Faults C-6
Tx Fault 4-10

U
Unused status 4-10

Digital Microwave Corporation

Local Maintenance Terminal User Guide

W
window descriptions
for Configure Radios 4-24-5
for Custom Frequencies 9-5
for Faults & Reports 5-35-4
for Link Status 1-9
for LMT Navigator E-2E-5
for Locking & Software 7-27-3, 8-3
for Loopback Tests 6-86-10
for Online Help 1-171-19
for Protection Settings 3-2

300-610007-001

Rev 1b, May 1998

I-7

Index

I-8

Digital Microwave Corporation

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