MDS 05-6399A01, Rev. E
MDS™ Master Station
91
7.0 TROUBLESHOOTING
If trouble occurs with the unit, verify that it meets the basic requirements listed below. These
items should be checked prior to starting any detailed troubleshooting or calling for assistance.
All units must have:
•
Adequate and stable primary power
•
Secure cable and wiring connections
•
Proper configuration for the application
Most radio system problems are due to the failure of components outside of the transceiv-
er—such as a poor or broken feed line or antenna connection. This section will help you deter-
mine whether the problem is outside or inside the radio and, if in the radio, how to restore opera-
tion as quickly as possible.
GE MDS does not recommend component-level repairs in the field. However, you can replace
the radio’s major assemblies without using tools or test equipment. Section 7.4 Replacing Mod-
ules covers this in detail.
Before starting any detailed troubleshooting, check the basic requirements at both ends
of the link: primary power, secure cable connections, and proper antenna heading. In
many cases, one of these causes poor operation or a complete loss of link service.
7.1 Interpreting Module LEDs
The LEDs on the front of installed modules provide useful information when troubleshooting.
Refer to Section 6.0 Master Station Modules for detailed descriptions for module LEDs. Power
and alarm indicators are provided on Platform Manager (Page 80), Radio (Page 85), and
Alarm/Relay modules (Page 87). Radio Modules also have TX/RX LEDs to show wireless activ-
ity.
Normal Operation
During normal, operation, there should not be any Red LEDs illuminated. All illuminated LEDs
should be BLUE or GREEN.