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RF-7000E Operations Manual
Chapter 6. Maintenance and Troubleshooting
— 61
Chapter 6. Maintenance and Troubleshooting
The RF-7000E active components are the linear power amplifiers, the DC/DC converters and the
optional RMAS alarm equipment if equipped. RF repeaters provide long field operating life, often 15
to 20 years. Technologies and traffic needs often drive upgrades or replacement rather than old age.
Routine maintenance checks of the repeater and its supporting equipment will ensure reliable
operation and early detection of problems.
Routine Maintenance
Peninsula Engineering Solutions recommends an annual maintenance schedule for the repeater. The
following is a procedure for routine maintenance:
1.
Observe the general condition of the installation site and correct any problems.
2.
Verify that the repeater and all associated hardware, including antennas, is securely mounted
and properly in place.
3.
Check input electrical wiring and power system for damage and ensure that connections are
tight. Replace any wiring that is suspect.
4.
Check any battery terminals for corrosion; clean terminals, if necessary.
5.
Check the battery storage capacity condition. Battery impedance testers are recommended.
Battery life expectancy is typically 5 to 10 years in an outdoor environment. Replace any weak
batteries or cells.
6.
Clean solar panels and remove obstructions, if applicable. A mild detergent
and water are recommended. Clean solar panels when they are cool, avoid
putting cold water on hot panels, this may cause damage. Dirt, thick dust
and bird droppings can reduce the output by 30%. Shadows from antennas,
lightning rods or trees reduce PV output. Life expectancy of PV arrays is
25 years or more.
CAUTION:
Follow manufacturer’s instructions when cleaning solar panels. Abrasive or acetone-
based solutions can cause damage.
7.
Look for lightning strike damage. Solar panels with
“holes” punched in
the backing material indicate a lightning strike. Damaged solar panels
or equipment should be replaced.
8.
Check antennas and feedlines for damage and ensure that connections
are tight.
9.
If the feedlines are pressurized, check that pressure is holding correctly, dehydrators are working
or Nitrogen gas tanks are full.
10.
If static desiccators are used to dry the feedlines, check the desiccant color. Blue is normal, Pink
indicates the desiccant is full of water and needs changing. Static desiccators should be changed
typically, about every 1 to 2 years.
11.
If feedline pressure is zero or desiccants are very pink, it’s best to check the feedlines for water.
Drain and dry as required. Inspect for corrosion, correct or replace as required.
12.
Check the RMAS alarm transmitter for indications of alarms or trouble.
13.
Measure the RF power output level at the RF MON ports. Compare to records.
14.
Measure the DC battery load current. Compare to records.