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1.0

INTRODUCTION

05-6398A01, Rev. A

MDS SDA Instruction Sheet

1

MDS SD Master Station

Setup Guide

The MDS SD Master Station serves as a central station in a mul-
tiple address system (MAS) wireless network. It provides long 
range, duplex (or simplex) communication between a control point 
and associated remotes. It is fully redundant for mission-critical 
applications, and is a compatible replacement for older  
MDS x790 Master Stations.

The master station works with a wide array of wireless equipment, 
including MDS SD Transceivers, legacy MDS x710 radios, and 
additional wireless options, depending on the modules installed in 
the chassis. 

Invisible 

place 

holder

Figure 1. SD Master Station

All modules are installed on slide-in assemblies, accessible from 
the front of the unit. A protective cover on the unit’s face slides off, 
allowing access to the modules and all interface connectors. In 
addition to communication modules, up to two power supply units 
may be installed, and these are available to suit a wide range of AC 
and DC power requirements. 

Each module is secured to the chassis with knurled fasteners for 
easy changes, when required. Figure 2 shows a common configu-
ration of installed modules.

Invisible 

place 

holder

Duplexer

Alarm/Relay

Radio B

Radio A

Supply 1 (AC)

Supply 2 (DC)

Platform Manager

Figure 2. Front Panel Connectors & Indicators

(Front cover removed)

Master Station modules are factory installed and cabled. 

Table

 

1

 

describes each module installed in a redundant configuration, from 
left to right. For a non-redundant configuration, blank plates are 
used in place of the redundant power supply and radio modules, 
and a 

non

-redundant version of the Alarm/Relay module is 

installed. 

The master station supports Ethernet or serial polling depending 
on order options. A host computer may be connected to the appro-
priate port on the chassis (LAN for Ethernet; COM1/2 for serial sig-
naling).

Configuration of the unit is performed with a PC, using a web inter-
face. The PC connects to the front of the radio’s Platform Manager 
module. Configuration options are similar to those of the SD Trans-
ceiver, and the radio supports full SD functionality in transparent 
mode. In addition, a command line interface (CLI) is available 
through the mini USB port using the proper USB drivers.

Table 1: Module Descriptions—Redundant Station

 

 

Module

ID

Function

1.1

Related Documentation

In addition to this setup guide, the 

SD Master Station Technical 

Manual 

(05-6399A01, under development) provides guidance on 

system design, advanced configuration, and maintenance. The 
Technical Manual should be available to personnel involved in the 
design, commissioning and maintenance of the network. Elec-
tronic copies of the latest user documents and support files are 
available free of charge at 

www.gemds.com

.

1.2

Options and Accessories

The SD Master Station may be equipped with optional battery 
backup, 10-watt RF power output (5 watt is standard), and a variety 
of duplexer and module options. Contact your factory representa-
tive for information on any of these options. 

In addition, GE MDS offers an 

Accessories Selection Guide

 listing 

additional items that may be used with many of our products. Con-
tact your factory representative or visit 

www.gemds.com

 for the 

latest copy.

1.3

Typical Application

Figure

 

3

 on the following page shows a common arrangement of 

the master station as used in a multiple address radio network. The 
system shows both SD and legacy x710 remote transceivers in 
use. 

Depending on order options, the master station can communicate 
with remotes employing Ethernet signaling, serial signaling, or a 
mix of both.

Power Supply 1, 
Power Supply 2

Varies

Input power supply. In a redundant 
configuration, both supplies work 
in tandem and are independent of 
which radio is active.

Platform 
Manager

6834

Provides management and data 
interface functions.

Radio A,
Radio B

6846 
(SDM9)

Single or redundant full duplex SD 
Master radios.

Alarm/Relay

6847

6848

Redundant—Active radio relay and 
alarm/audio interface.
Non-redundant—Alarm and audio 
interface.

Duplexer

6837

Internal RF duplexer (if equipped)

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