Microwave Data Systems MDS 4310, Installation, Operation & Field Maintenance

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viii TABLE OF CONTENTS MDS 2141A01, Rev. A
About This Manual
This manual covers three models in the MDS 4300 Series of 450 MHz radio transceivers.
The MDS 4310 is the basic transceiver, and it is the main focus of this manual. The MDS
4350 and MDS 4355 are packaged weatherproof models, which include the MDS 4310 radio
plus a power supply, back-up battery and interface/utility board, all mounted in a NEMA 4
enclosure. Appendix F of this manual covers the main features of the MDS 4350 and
Appendix G covers the MDS 4355. All discussions relating only to the MDS 4350 and MDS
4355 Packaged models will be clearly marked.
The following is a brief summary of the contents in each chapter of the manual.
Chapter 1—General, provides a general introduction to the MDS 4310 Transceiver and its
standard and optional equipment. A specifications table provides a detailed summary of the
radio’s electrical and mechanical features.
Chapter 2—Installation, contains steps for installation, hookup and checkout of the MDS
4310 Transceiver. Recommendations are also provided for feedline and antenna selection,
connection to external equipment, jumper configuration settings and other requirements for
planning a successful radio installation.
Chapter 3—Programming and Diagnostics, gives procedures for connecting a Hand-Held
Terminal, or a standard ASCII Terminal to the radio for accessing and controlling the
transceiver’s operating parameters and performing diagnostic checks.
Chapter 4—Field Tests and Alignments, contains detailed procedures for testing and
adjusting the equipment to ensure maximum performance. The procedures here are not
required for normal installations, but can be performed as an aid in diagnosing a suspected
problem, or following replacement or repair of an assembly.
Chapter 5—Theory of Operation, provides an overview of the circuits comprising the
MDS 4310 Transceiver. The text is supported with an oversized block diagram at the end of
the chapter to aid in understanding the material.
Chapter 6—Troubleshooting System Problems, contains recommended evaluation
procedures for system troubles, and suggests possible solutions.