MDS 05-6399A01, Rev. F
MDS™ Master Station
21
3.6 Data Interface Connections
Ethernet Data Interface (RJ-45)
The Ethernet interface supports both radio management and payload data transport functions.
For radio management, connecting via a web browser provides enhanced functionality and ease-
of-use over serial/USB methods. Web-based management is the preferred and primary means of
accessing the transceiver through the built-in
Device Manager
.
SSH may also be used on this connector, and provides the same CLI based user interface
available via the serial/USB interfaces.
See section Ethernet Interfaces on Page 97 for electrical information and connector pinout.
Serial Data Interfaces
COM1
and
COM2
provided on the front of the Platform Manager module serve as the serial
interface ports for payload data, radio management, or diagnostics. Management is also available
through the mini USB port. The default factory configuration for these serial ports depend on the
type of radio modules that are installed.
Table 3-3. Default Serial Port Assignment
Product variant
COM1
COM2
MPRS
Serial Payload Data
System Console
MPRL
System Console
System Console
These ports are user-configurable for specific applications. The procedures for changing their
default operation are provided later in this guide.
Not all PCs have a serial port. If one is not available, a USB-to-Serial adapter and appropriate
driver software may be used to provide serial connectivity. These adapters are available from
several manufacturers, including GE MDS.
MPRS Serial Data Connection
When used as a data port for an SD Radio Module in Transparent or x710 modes, some pins on
COM1 and COM2 have special behavior determined by configuration. DCD (Data Carrier
Detect) is asserted when the radio received an on-frequency signal. RTS (Request-to-Send) can
be configured to key the transmitter when asserted. CTS (Clear-to-Send) can be configured to go
“high” after the programmed CTS delay time has elapsed (DCE), or can be configured to key
another connected radio when RF data arrives (CTS KEY)
The included Com Port Adapter Cable 73-2434A25 can be used to convert the unit’s RJ-45 serial
jack to a DB-9F type connector.
