GWS5000 SERIES USER GUIDE 19th July 2019 GWS5000 Deployment Guide Version 1.
GWS5000 Deployment Guide Version 1.0 19 July 2019 Copyright 6Harmonics Contents Copyright Notice .......................................................................................................................................... 5 FCC Regulatory Notice ................................................................................................................................. 6 Part 15 TV Band Device Notice........................................................................................
GWS5000 Deployment Guide Version 1.0 19 July 2019 Copyright 6Harmonics Client Station Installation Examples ................................................................................................. 28 Power over Ethernet (POE) Units ......................................................................................................... 29 Network Configuration of GWS5000 Radios............................................................................................ 30 Preparation.............
GWS5000 Deployment Guide Version 1.0 19 July 2019 Copyright 6Harmonics GUI Details .................................................................................................................................................. 79 Monitor Tab............................................................................................................................................ 79 Radio Status ............................................................................................................
GWS5000 Deployment Guide Version 1.0 19 July 2019 Copyright 6Harmonics QOS .................................................................................................................................................... 124 VLAN .................................................................................................................................................. 124 Troubleshooting..............................................................................................................
GWS5000 Deployment Guide Version 1.0 19 July 2019 Copyright 6Harmonics Revision History Revisions 1.0 1.1 Author Mike Davies Mike Davies Date 14th January 2019 15th February 2019 Status Draft Draft 1.2 Mike Davies 7th May 2019 Draft 1.3 Mike Davies 7th June 2019 Draft 1.4 Mike Davies 9th July 2019 Draft 1.5 Mike Davies 16th July 2019 2.0 Mike Davies Notes Initial release for internal review Changes to Nominet Database Settings: OFCOM Operation following database testing.
FCC Regulatory Notice This device complies with part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) This device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation. Any changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance could void the user’s authority to operate the equipment.
Approved Components: Only the following components in the table below are approved for use. GWS Radio FCC Certificate Number Also approved for: Approved Components / Supplier Power Supplies2 GWS-5002 GWS-5002E Microsemi 9501 POE3 GWS-5002 GWS-5002 GWS-5002 GWS-5002E GWS-5002E GWS-5002E Ubiquiti POE-54-80W Netonix POE switch configured to 48VH 1.
Safety Notice In order to avoid RF Exposure risk installers and operators must be aware of the following minimum distances.
Deployment Guide Summary This deployment guide provides an overview of the 6Harmonics GWS5000 product portfolio and how specific units can be employed to establish a wireless radio network with the intended performance. The guide is intended to allow installers, applications engineers and technical sales to understand all aspects of the 6Harmonics TVWS solution.
GWS5000 Series Product Description Best in class TV Whitespace wireless solution with industry leading throughput and range to meet the most demanding of deployment challenges. The GWS5000 series is the most advanced TV whitespace solution available and is the 5th generation of TV Whitespace radio developed by 6Harmonics. Throughput with a 24MHz and a single spatial stream can achieve 72Mbps UDP and 50Mbps TCP/IP.
Key Features • Operates on TV channels from 14 to 51 inclusive (470MHz-698MHz) in Channel Plan 0 (USA, Canada, etc.) • Operates on TV channels from 21 to 58 inclusive (470MHz-774MHz) in Channel Plan 1 (UK, EU, Africa, etc.
Standards and Regulatory Compliance Canada RS-222; RSS-GEN Europe EN 301 598 V1.1.1, EN 301 598 V2.1.1(partial); EN 301.
Mechanical Dimensions Base Station Client Station Weight Housing Mounting 1 Female RJ45 IP67 RJ45 connector. Auto-sensing 10/100-T Ethernet. Antenna 2 Female IP67 N-type connector Other Pressure equalization vent Custom enclosures available for 8W, vehicular or maritime applications.
Deployment Planning for GWS5000 Radios TV Whitespace or Super Wi-Fi are terms often used to describe wireless network solutions that utilize VHF / UHF spectrum that has become available as TV broadcast signals have moved from analog to digital. Because a digital TV signal uses less spectrum than an analog TV channel these “TV Whitespaces” (TVWS) have become available for unlicensed use.
The basic deployment of a TVWS / Super Wi-Fi network using UHF is shown below: Data network UHF RF Router (Router) Internet Internet GWS client GWS base station station radio (CPE) PoE Midspan PoE Midspan radio (BTS) AC power AC power Point-to-Point Links In the preceding diagram if the link is between two stations only, it is a point-to-point link. Point-to-point links are used for bridging / extending networks or as a network backhaul.
Coverage Identify potential base station tower locations. • Check the potential height of the antenna on the tower and the GPS co-ordinates. • Consider the availability of TVWS spectrum from the database • Consider the risk of noise or interference form TV or other signals. Coverage and Propagation Estimation There are numerous propagation models that can be used to estimate coverage5. For a simple estimation choose: • Transmit power: 23 dBm (0.
Line of Sight (LOS) propagation from a client station towards a high tower may suggest that a strong link can be established but if the link lies within the Fresnel zone problems may occur. Non-Line-of-Sight (NLOS) propagation is feasible at these frequencies, the RF can often have sufficient power to penetrate buildings, woodland and propagate over hills. However, if several steel and concrete buildings lie within the antenna sector, even high-power signals will not be sufficient to establish a connection.
The GWS5000 series throughput performance: 6MHz DTT channel & SISO Operation Connection MCS level Received power (dBm) Modulation supported Spectral efficiency (b/s/Hz) Theoretical PHY rate (Mbps) UDP rate (Mbps est.) TCP/IP rate (Mbps est.) MCS 7 >-78dBm 64 QAM 5/6 rate 56 25 16.5 12 MCS 6 -80 to 79dBm 64 QAM ¾ rate 4.5 22.5 14.7 10.9 MCS 5 -82 to -81dBm 64 QAM 2/3 rate 4 20 13.0 9.7 MCS 4 -84 to 83dBm 16 QAM ¾ rate 3 15 9.8 7.
24MHz DTT Channel & MIMO7 Operation MCS Received Spatial Modulation Coding Index Streams Type Rate 0 1 BPSK 1⁄ 2 1 1 QPSK 1⁄ 2 2 1 QPSK 3⁄ 4 3 1 16-QAM 1⁄ 2 4 1 16-QAM 3⁄ 4 5 1 64-QAM 2⁄ 3 6 1 64-QAM 3⁄ 4 7 1 64-QAM 5⁄ 6 8 2 BPSK 1⁄ 2 9 2 QPSK 1⁄ 2 10 2 QPSK 3⁄ 4 11 2 16-QAM 1⁄ 2 12 2 16-QAM 3⁄ 4 13 2 64-QAM 2⁄ 3 14 2 64-QAM 3⁄ 4 15 2 64-QAM 5⁄ 6 7 PHY Rate UDP Rate Even though the transmit may have two spatial streams the link may d
The previous tables are just guidelines. In reality, the “data throughput” depends on several factors such as the application, the packet length etc etc. When deploying 6Harmonics products, a wireless network design should include an estimate of the traffic patterns and traffic type. Customers and installers must be aware of all aspects of their requirements to ensure a successful deployment.
an equivalent amount of data to be transmitted, the link with the lower MCS will require more airtime (or access to the radio channel). The uplink and downlink will have asymmetric throughput. If this happens poorer performing stations can degrade the overall network throughput.
GWS5000 Installation The GWS5000 radios are generally mounted on a pole or mast that shares the antenna. It is recommended that the pole or mast be metal (galvanized steel or aluminum). When the radio units are attached to the mast using the brackets supplied a good electrical connection is made to the mast. Therefore, the mast or pole itself should also have a good earth as ground for the RF. Any other radios at the same location should utilize the same ground.
height above ground to the radio to ensure regulatory compliance is met via the database query. GWS Radio Unit Installation: Grounding When a GWS radio is installed outdoors, the enclosure must be properly grounded to allow a discharge path in the case of a nearby lightning strike.
must be tight and fitted properly. The connectors must be taped with good quality waterproof tape. Care must be exercised to ensure none of the threads are crossed so the waterproof seal is tight. GWS Radio Unit Installation: Ethernet Surge Protection Ethernet surge suppressors are essential to ensure protection of the data port on both the radio and the data port of the POE unit.
Base Station Installation Schematic 25
Base Station Installation Example GWS radio Ethernet surge suppressor (NB should be horizontal, and connector taped).
Client Station Installation Schematic 27
Client Station Installation Examples 28
Power over Ethernet (POE) Units 6Harmonics has qualified the following Power-over-Ethernet (PoE) midspan units to power the GWS radio units. GWS Radio POE Unit Output Max 54V, 1.5A Data rate (Mbps) 10/100/1000 Power Notes GWS5000 BTS Ubiquiti POE-54-80W 80W Use with cable runs >30m GWS5000 CPE Ubiquiti POE-54-80W 54V, 1.5A 10/100/1000 80W Use with cable runs >30m GWS5000 CPE Ubiquiti POE-50-60W 50V, 1.
Network Configuration of GWS5000 Radios Preparation Hardware Use a Windows (version 7 or later preferred) or Linux PC, configure the ethernet adapter to be on the same subnet as the default IP configuration of the GWS radios. Default IP address for base station (CAR) and client station (EAR) is the same: IP address 192.168.1.1 Network mask 255.255.255.0 Gateway 192.168.1.1 DNS 8.8.8.8 WARNING: The DNS setting default is 8.8.8.811 which is a public DNS.
Software OS: Windows 7 or later Mac: OSx v10.10 or later Web browser: Chrome Web Browser Version 52.0 or later WARNING: Only Chrome is fully verified, some browsers such as Mozilla will NOT work. TIP: If Chrome is slow to load, clear the cache. Other • • Network with Internet access Ethernet cables that have been tested for continuity. Configuring the GWS Radios GWS Radio GUI Login To access the configuration utility, open the Chrome web-browser and enter the default IP address 192.168.1.
Network Configuration Parameters To allow database access, the GWS radio must have internet access. User must ensure that network parameters such as IP, network mask and gateway are correct. The user must also ensure that firewalls or other network security features do not inhibit network access for the radio. Below is an example for network configuration. Assume we intend to assign network parameters to the base station which can access the internet: IP address 192.168.0.22 Network mask 255.255.255.
Setting Network Configuration Parameters In the Monitor page, click “System” tab to access the “System” page. Click “Network” tab. Input the required network parameters and click “Save” button to apply the settings.
Confirm “Yes” to reboot device and apply changes. The Chrome browser will automatically return to the login page after reboot. Make sure your PC is on the same subnet as the GWS radio. WARNING: The GWS radios have a Roll-back Feature which ensures that the IP configuration cannot be erroneously entered. Unless the user successfully logs back into the GWS radio within 10minutes of changing the IP configuration the GWS radio will rollback to the previous IP configuration.
Using the Djinni Tool to Configure the GWS Radios What is the purpose of this tool? Frequently installers may have difficulty finding the IP address of the radio, and as a consequence they are unable to login to the radio. This is particularly frustrating at a CPE install which ends up taking much longer than it should. When a GWS radio, either a BTS or a CPE, is powered up Djinni program will run on the radio for 10 minutes.
Preparation Set the Ethernet port to DHCP or to a known fixed IP configuration. Disable then Enable the ethernet adapter to ensure it is on the correct IP domain. Connect the computer to the data port of POE midpsan that is powering the radio. Check the POE lights are on = radio is powered up. If the radio has been powered up for more than 10 minutes the tool will not work.
The IP address is the IP address of the ethernet adapter on the PC. The MAC address of the ethernet adapter of the PC is also displayed. If the ethernet adapter is set to DHCP then you may have to change the IP network configuration of the PC after the GWS radio is configured so that both the PC and the GWS radio are on the same subnet. Choose the adapter (ethernet) by clicking on the blue arrow.
The radio IP will be displayed. In the case displayed below the Djinni time on the radio has expired. If the laptop and the radio are on the same subnet (as above) you can click on the GUI icon and it will open the radio GUI. (GUI icon only appears if on same subnet as PC). If the laptop is not on the same subnet you must reboot the GWS radio. Repeat and the configuration icon should appear.
Note “Time left” refers to the amount of time that remains for the Djinni tool to run on the GWS radio. Even if the laptop and the GWS radio are on completely separate subnets you will still be able to login into the GWS radio. Click the configuration icon. The window below appears: Set the IP address, the network mask and gateway to the required values. Please note that you know from the earlier Djinni pages what the configuration settings of the ethernet adapter are.
The radio will restart and overwrite the Network Parameters. In this example the IP address has been changed from 192.168.0.20 to 192.168.0.22 Roll-back Feature IMPORTANT: Once you save the IP configuration YOU MUST RELOG BACK INTO THE RADIO TO CONFIRM THE IP CONFIGURATION WILL BECOME PERMANENT. If you simply save the IP configuration and the CPE makes a link to the BTS, then data will flow giving the impression all the IP settings are good. But after 10minutes the roll-back feature will become enabled.
Login to the radio as normal and check the IP configuration on both the Monitor Tab and the Network Tab. Monitor Tab, note the IP address. Network Tab, validate the mask, gateway and DNS are correct. This completes using the Djinni Tool to set the Network Parameters of the GWS radios.
Setting up a Radio Link All GWS radio units share the same GWS host software. It is essential to ensure that all GWS radios are correctly configured for the deployment scenario. Establishing a Wireless Link between Two GWS Radios For the purposes of this section we assume that the GWS radio is in manual mode and a database is not used to determine the allowable operational channels. From the proceeding section we have successfully set the IP configuration of the radios.
4) Connect a PC or laptop to the data port of each midspan using pre-tested Cat5e cables. 5) Power up each midspan by inserting the AC power cord into the POE midspan. WARNING: Do not hot swap the Cat5e cables between the radio and the POE midspan. The radios use 4 pair POE++ and can be damaged. 6) Login and configure the radios as explained previously. Follow the steps in the following section to establish a radio link.
GWS Radio RF Parameters to Establish Radio Link: Base Station We assume that a base station has been carefully installed and that the PC and GWS radio IP addresses are set to a predetermined configuration, then we need to set: (a) the channel number (we assume a dual channel bandwidth of 12MHz) (b) the transmit (TX) power (c) the receive gain Settings chosen should be consistent with the modelling that was performed previously.
Go to the Features sub-tab from the System tab. Disable AGC. On the Radio Status section of the monitor tab, use the Config button to set the Rx gain to zero and Save. The RX Gain should display zero as below. Click on the Spectrum Channel Scan button on the Monitor tab: The Spectrum Channel Scan window appears: Click on the Start Spectrum Channel Scan. The radio will then check the noise in all channels, even though the database or the subchannel list may not allow use of some channels.
A very clean scan example (12MHz channel width): A scan with some other signals (12MHz channel width): The scan suggests TV signals on channels 14 and 24, maybe 23 or 25, that impact the noise floor in 14,15 and 24,25. Because TV signals are very strong, and their emissions mask is not perfect we also see bleed in to 15,16 as well as 23,24 & 25,26. We can check this further by reducing the channel bandwidth to 6MHz and repeating the scan.
Now we can see the TV signals on 14, 24 and 25. Maybe 33 and 34 also. TIP: Always save these scans for a base station and a client station at time of install. If noise or interference arises at a later date it will be obvious if any changes in RF environment have impaired the link. Secondly, the TV signal acts as a marker to show the antenna and associate receive circuitry of the radio are fully functional.
We re-enable the AGC on the Features sub-tab of the System tab. Radio Status section on the Monitor tab will now show Rx Gain setting as Auto. We set the transmit conducted power to a high value, say 29dBm (assuming the database allows this conducted power / EIRP value). Click on Save. If the client station scans onto this 12MHz transmission, the link will appear as below: The status will display “stabilizing radio link” for approximately 2 minutes.
After two minutes we see: This says we have: -61dBm receive signal strength, -103dBm noise; SNR 43 dB In downlink (the base station transmission) MCS 4 In uplink (the base station receive) MCS 7 The link has been connected for 8 minutes and 12 seconds If we click on the green cross we can also see the data at the client station displayed on the base station Monitor tab: For further details on the display see Connection Status section of the Monitor tab 49
GWS Radio RF Parameters to Establish Radio Link: Client Station We have now manually configured GWS radios base station channel, transmit power and receive gain. In this test set up we can see the link has been successfully established.
Base station towers typically have multiple base station radios on a sector type architecture. As the client station radio has a scan function, we need to pick the correct base station by looking for the beacon signal from the preferred base station. Click on the Spectrum Channel Scan button on the Monitor tab: The Spectrum Channel Scan window appears: Click on the Start Beacon Signal Scan.
Place the cursor on the signal strength icon to display the MAC address, the SSID and the signal strength from the base station on given channel. Once you have determined which base station you want to connect to, set the SSID on the Network sub-tab of the System tab. Click on Wireless Setting to display the wireless settings window. Enter the SSID of the base station you wish to connect to and click on Save.
Radio Link Performance Optimization After the link is established if the information from the monitor window shows that the performance is not as expected by the simulation then we may need to tune the link to ensure good performance. Causes of link asymmetry may include: • Transmit power settings • Receive gain settings • Noise at the client station • Noise at the base station • Asymmetric antenna gain Reduction in MCS can be caused by: • Interference even though the SNR value appears good.
Scan Function As mentioned previously, the GWS client radios have an automatic scan function. On start up the client radio will automatically try the last valid configuration to estblish a link and if no link established, the CPE will go into scan mode and look for a base station to connect to. The Radio Status display is as follows: The user will see the channel number change every few seconds.
Nominet Database Settings: FCC Operation In “System” page, click “Database” to configure database agent. Device Characteristics The antenna height above ground level (AGL) in meters is required. The maximum legal height AGL is 30m (approximately 100ft). The antenna gain, is the NET antenna gain and includes losses due to cables etc. The antenna gain is used to calculate the maximum EIRP allowed for the GWS radio at this specific location.
Database Parameters The database token is inputted during manufacture and the token lifetime is activated after a number of database queries as determined by the database provider. The lifetime of the token is determined at equipment ordering and is typically 3 or 5 years. WARNING: Changing parameters in this field may cause the radio to discontinue operation. Owner Information The owner information relates to the legal owner of the equipment, typically this is a company.
Restart Agent: Use this button if you are trying to check that the radio is able to reach the database. Save Configuration: This button will save changes to the database parameters but will not initiate a new database query. The radio will wait until the current channel list has expired and will then query the database. Save & Restart: Saves all the changes and initiates a new database query, and if successful will restart the “Query time left” timer in the Database Agent Status section of the Monitor tab.
Database Operation: Base Station Click “Monitor” tab to access the Monitor page. • Agent status shows “Query successful” which means the radio has successfully accessed the database and completed the query process. • Query time left is the time to the next database query. • Channel list expired time is a count down timer on the validity of the channel list on the database.
The operator should observe the following: TX of the base station will not be turned on until the valid channel list is returned from the database. This is indicated by the Tx state indicating GWS_Ready or TX ON15. OR If the current channel is within the channel list, the base station will start to transmit on current channel. If current channel is not within the channel list, the base station will choose the next available channel to operate. Check the Channel List on the System Tab.
Database Operation: Client Station Follow the same steps as the base station to configure the database agent for the client station. The operator should be able to observe on the Monitor Tab that the client station has started to scan the full channel list. The user will see the channel number change every few seconds.
Nominet Database Settings: OFCOM Operation Although most of the software for a GWS radio operating on an OFCOM database is the same as a radio operating on a FCC database there are several key differences which need to be understood. • The channel plan is based on 8MHz channels not 6MHz channels. • The maximum EIRP is always 36dBm per 8MHz channel, there is no allowance for higher antenna gain to increase to 40dBm per 6MHz channel as permitted by FCC in rural areas.
• The operating frequency range of the GWS radio is greater under OFCOM. 470698MHz for FCC (Channels 14-51 inclusive); 470-774MHz for OFCOM (Channels 21-58 inclusive). GWS radios have an emissions mask that is software defined. Both the base station and client station are GPS enabled. This ensures the maximum spectrum availability in the field.
Understanding MOP, GOP & SOP Values from the Nominet Database In order to fully comprehend how the MOP, GOP and SOP values determine network operation we can explore some examples using the Nominet database planning tool19. Understanding MOP, GOP and SOP is key to operating the radios. Let us choose the following locations: Base Station: Latitude 57.6198; Longitude -2.0026 Client station20 #1: Latitude 57.6486; Longitude -1.9208 Client station #2: Latitude 57.6600; Longitude -2.
Consider Channel 43, the MOP transmit EIRP is 36dBm, the GOP transmit EIRP is 22dBm. Now we add a potential client location at 57.6486, -1.9208 (yellow). In addition to the MOP of the base station (blue), the GOP of any client station (grey), the tool also displays the SOP for specific geolocation of client#1 (yellow). On Channel 43, we now know the allowed SOP transmit EIRP for Client #1 is 36dBm.
In summary; • The base station can transmit at 36dBm on Channel 43 • The client station can transmit at 22dBm on Channel 43, if the client uses GOPs • The client station can transmit at 36dBm on Channel 43, if the client uses SOPs. Let us add another client location (pale green) at 57.6600, -2.0080. Similarly, for Channel 43, at the location for client #2, the radio is allowed to transmit at 36dBm EIRP (pale green).
Each link is symmetrical (i.e. UL & DL) because the EIRP for both clients and the base station is the same (36dBm). NB this does not mean both of the links will have the same performance. WARNING: Always independently simulate the link using a tool such as Radio Mobile to determine the expected link performance.
Now we choose a different channel where this is not the case, such as Ch 23. The tool then calculates the link performance based on the best case of SOP or GOP for the client. Now: • The base station can only operate at 10dBm EIRP. Client #1 cannot hear the base station as the power is too low. • Client station #1 (yellow) can transmit at 20dBm EIRP using GOP or 36dBm EIRP using SOP. • Client station #1 (pale green) can transmit at 20dBm EIRP using GOP or 32dBm EIRP using SOP.
availability and EIRP limits for each channel. The operator should understand the impact of these parameters before (i) installing the radios (ii) inputting these parameters on the database tab of the radio. GPS Operation As we have shown network performance greatly depends on the channel availability and associated EIRP limits per channel. For client stations, the best channel availability occurs when the client radio is GPS enabled.
Under EN301.598 two types of TVWS device are defined, Type A which is fixed only, and Type B which is not restricted to fixed operation only. Because the location used for the database query is updated every 60 seconds the slave may be considered to operate as either a Type A device (fixed only) or a Type B device (not restricted to fixed only)22.
Database Tab: Nominet-OFCOM Operation Below is the database tab for a base station when using the Nominet database for OFCOM: The fields in dark grey cannot be set by the operator. Location values of Latitude and Longitude are read every 3 seconds from the GPS. The location cannot be manually entered on the database tab on the base station, even if the base station radio does not have a GPS fix. This is because GPS geolocation is a mandatory requirement for a base station (master) under EN 301.59823.
device only dedicated antennas specified by 6Harmonics may be used. The use of other antennas is prohibited25. Operational parameters returned from the database depend upon device type. A “TVWSD that has geo-location capability shall confirm its location at least every 60 seconds except while in sleep mode” to be allowed to operate as Type B device26. The GWS radios update their geo-location every 3 seconds so Type B operation is permissible.
We have now explained the key parameters the radio needs to complete a database query: • The antenna gain • The antenna height above ground • The Device Type (A or B) • The Device Class (1,2 or 3) • The confirmation that the radio has successfully determined its geolocation to a sufficient accuracy to allow the database query to succeed.
Database Operation: Base Station Once the GPS is able to achieve a fix the Location display will display the actual Latitude and Longitude values27: The database agent has attempted a query which was successful. The radio has a valid channel list and the radio has turned on. The channel list can be viewed on the System tab: In addition, we can see the Database Agent Status: Here T-Validity is time to expiry of the database validity, the time the operational parameters in the database are valid.
Base Station Radio EIRP We know that the EIRP limit for the base station is 27dBm on Ch 43 and 12dBm on Ch 23. To understand how the radio operates within regulatory limits for each channel, first set the bandwidth to MHz and Save. On the database tab, the antenna height is 15m and the antenna gain29 is 1dBi. In this case the maximum conducted power for a channel should be 1dB less than the EIRP.
Again, we can test the radio response by setting the conducted power to 30dBm. We can see that the radio software will not allow the base station radio to operate at an EIRP value that exceeds the combined value of the conducted power and the antenna gain. An incorrect entry of the antenna gain will impact the allowed conducted power. Because the radio is GPS geolocated, the channel list and associated EIRP are set by the database and cannot be overridden.
Database Operation: Client Station Manual Geolocation Similar to operation under FCC, the client station radio will scan until it sees a signal from a base station radio, and then it will try to connect. Assuming the IP and SSID configuration allow the client radio to connect to the base station and the client radio will query the base station for GOPs and then the database for SOPs.
The client station radio now has an updated channel list, for each channel the radio may use the higher EIRP limit of the GOP or SOP. In this case the client station channel list appears as follows on the System Tab: Client Station Radio EIRP We can now check that the radio is operating within the EIRP limit per channel, either GOP or SOP. The client station is located at 56.648578, -1.920739 On the database tab of the client radio we set the antenna height to 5m and the antenna gain to 14dBi.
After >2 minutes the client radio should have pulled a new SOP list from the database32 and we can try again to set the conducted power to 30dBm, the radio responds as follows: The client radio is now able to use the SOP EIRP limit of 35dBm (21dBm conducted plus 14dBi antenna gain) for channel 43. In the event of a loss of power at the client radio, on reboot the radio must follow the initial connection process using GOPs before it can use SOPs to be regulatory compliant.
GUI Details In this section we provide a detailed description of the various Tabs, Sections & Windows of the GUI. Monitor Tab Radio Status Core Adaptive Radio (CAR) means this radio is a base station. If the display shows Edge Adaptive Radio (EAR), the radio is a client station. Radio Type is the model number, in this case it is a GWS5002. MAC Address is the MAC address of the radio. As mentioned previously, the radio needs internet access to get to a database.
IP / SSID is the IP address and SSID of the radio. LAN Speed Duplex shows the status of the LAN port on the GWs radio. If there is no data connection to the data side of a client station it will show “Ethernet down”. This status setting is useful to see if there are any issues with the data connection on the radio. If a port on a switch that is connected to a base station has become faulty, say 100M half-duplex versus 100M full-duplex the display will indicate this fault.
If for example, there is a break in internet backhaul to a base station then the INTERNET display will go yellow. Because the internet connection is lost, and this radio is using a public DNS then the DNS display also goes yellow. If the DNS was private, it would stay blue. The GATEWAY stays blue because the radio can still see the gateway to the internet but there is no internet access behind the gateway.
Click on Config button to enter the radio latitude and longitude. Six decimals should be used to ensure location accuracy. WARNING: if the values are incorrect the map display will be erroneous. Check the location using the Map feature. If the radio is equipped with GPS geolocation, the latitude and longitude are determined by the GPS and there is no user defined location input field.
Map To the right of the Location field is the Map button Clicking on this button will toggle the display / non-display of the map. The map is not on the radio, it is on the PC being used to access the radio. It will only appear if the PC has access to the internet. The PC uses the Location values to display the radio locations. • Red is a base station. • Blue is a client station. The IP addresses are also displayed. “Self” is the radio GUI that the PC is logged into.
In addition, clicking on the blue client station icons will display key parameters of the client station radio. See below.
Channel / Region (Channel plan) refers to the channel the radio is operating on. The pulldown menu is used to set the channel number manually. Don’t forget to save. Channel plan 0 (6MHz) is used in the Americas (most countries), South Korea, Taiwan, Philippines and Japan.
of the link. The bandwidth can be set using the pull-down menu (don’t forget to save). Some GWS radios have narrower custom bandwidths33 which are used for extended range links where range is more important than throughput. System Up Time: indicates the time that the GWS radio has been powered up. In conjunction with a client station System Up Time and the Radio Link Uptime timers, a base station System Up Time can be used to indicate power outages or interference that has broken the link.
Database Agent Status Database access is the database provider. Channel list expired time is the time the radio will continue to operate with a valid channel list. It is the time (in minutes) between the System Time and when the Channel List will expire on the database. On the version for EN 301.598 this field is labelled T-Validity34. Agent status shows status during or after a database query. System time is needed to ensure the database query exchange is successful as the exchange is time stamped.
The MCS values of an RX (say client) and a TX (say base station) should be the same, but they may also fluctuate with time due to traffic flows. Status at EAR=Status at Client Station. Status at CAR=Status at Base Station. In the TX power box of the Down Link section if you click on Config the user can set the transmit power of the client station, i.e. you can set the transmit power of a client station radio form the base station GUI without logging into the client station radio.
Beacon button On the client radio there is a Beacon button on the right side of the Connection Status window. Click on the button; the MAC address of the base station, the unprocessed signal strength at the client station, and the SSID of the base station will be displayed. The beacon signal display can be used to monitor the stability of the received signal at the client station radio. About Tab The about tab shows general information about the radio.
System Tab On the system tab there are 4 additional sub-tabs: Network, Tools, Features and Database (if implemented). On the System Tab page, the following are displayed in the System tab window. REBOOT button. This button located to the right on the window is used to reboot the radio. When this process is initiated the firmware will be reloaded from the flash memory and all processes will re-initialized. System Time shows the UTC time or the time for time zone the radio is located in.
Set User Account Click on Set User Account and the window below appears: Enter a new username, password and password confirmation. Click on Save. Click on the minus sign (top right) to close the window. Set System Time In order to complete a database query, the GWS radios need to set System Time.
Enter the date & time and save. Care with format. Select the time zone from the pull-down menu. The System Time on the monitor page should now display these values. WARNING: If the System Time is set incorrectly then the “Channel List expired time” display window will be incorrect. This is because the Channel List expired time counts down from the absolute time (in minutes) between the current System Time and the time stamped last database query.
The user may now enter an external or internal NTP server. Click on Save and the radio will now use this NTP server to get System Time. The user must ensure the GWS radio has the appropriate network access to a specific NTP server. Install a Default External NTP Server Click on Default to view and edit the Default NTP server list. Clicking on Default will load the following external (public) NTP Server list. If required, click on the Add button and enter the web address of the NTP server.
Firmware Upgrade Click on the Firmware Upgrade tab and the following window appears: When a firmware upgrade is required users will be provided with upgrade files and specific instructions. WARNING: Do not attempt to upgrade without specific instructions and files from 6Harmonics. Network Tab The Ethernet Setting window has been explained previously.
Wireless Settings Click on Wireless Settings and the window below appears: Input the SSID value and Save. Do not use spaces. MCS Range Click on MCS Range and the window below appears: Use the pull-down menu to choose the MCS range and Save. The purpose of this setting is to ensure link stability if the RF environment is unstable.
Tools Tab The Tools tab consists of three windows, the Ping Tool, the Update tool and Configuration & Restore. Click on the respective bar to display.
Ping Tool The purpose of the Ping Tool is to determine if any particular segments of the network are causing excessive latentcy or packet loss. This allows an operator to identify the source of problems. The ping tool can use a web address or an IP address. Knowing the IP network configuration discussed previously we can try the following ping tests: • Client to Google (as above) • Client to base station • Client to gateway • Base station to Google • Base station to gateway.
and traffic patterns determine access to the transport medium. If TDMA37 is enabled, expect a change in latentcy. Similarly, ATF38 will also impact the downlink latentcy. Update The Update window is used to patch the firmware. When a patch is applied, the firmware load will NOT change. When an Update is required users will be provided with update files and specific instructions. WARNING: Do not attempt to update without specific instructions and files from 6Harmonics.
Features Tab See Features section.
Database Tab For operation in USA see Nominet Database Settings: FCC Operation. For operation in UK see Nominet Database Settings: OFCOM Operation.
Testing Radio Database Connectivity Using Internet Connection Sharing (ICS) Introduction Users may experience problems getting the radios to turn on and / or create stable links due to network firewalls or other security settings preventing the radios completing a database query. Or users may experience residential gateways behind a client station radio having problems getting internet access.
• Ensure a client station radio can connect to the base station and successfully complete a database query-and then a stable link can be established. • Ensure a laptop behind the client station radio can access the internet.
Set up ICS Check internet sharing enabled If the sharing tab does not appear then you need to enable. Process varies by operating system.
Turn on Internet Sharing (ICS) by clicking both boxes. You will see this message: This means the WiFi connection to the internet will be shared onto the LAN port which is set at 192.168.137.
The adapter window will look like this: We now need to check that all the network elements i.e. GWS radios on the ethernet port are all on the same subnet as the ethernet port on the laptop. WARNING: The subnet of the DHCP server on the adapter41 that is providing the internet access must be different than the subnet of the radios. Right click on the ethernet adapter icon and click on status.
Click on details: Open the ethernet adapter properties-and set to 192.168.1.99/ 255.255.255.0 Configuring the Base Station • Connect the data port of the POE midspan to the ethernet port on the laptop. • Connect the data plus power port of the midspan to the radio. • Power up the midspan • Open Chrome and open the radio GUI using the default IP address https://192.168.1.142 • Login as normal 42 Or use Djinni.
If the GUI comes up as above: (a) The laptop has an internet connection via the WiFi connection (you know this because the map appears). (b) The laptop has a connection to the radio via the ethernet port (you can login to the radio) (c) The radio does not have a connection to the internet, most likely because the radio and the ethernet port have incorrect gateway/DNS or other IP network related settings.
Now the laptop ethernet port is the gateway to the internet for the radio. Set the radio IP parameters as follows: Don’t forget to save and log back into the radio to avoid issues from the roll back feature! Now the radio will be able to access the internet via the shared internet connection (I.e. ICS) and should be able to make a successful database enquiry and turn the radio on. At this point the monitor page that follows shows that the base station radio is working fine.
TIP: Depending on what version of Windows is used you may have to make sharing available first. When sharing is available, also check that HTTPS is turned on as a service. The database uses HTTPS. Connecting a Client Station to the Base Station Configure the second laptop ethernet adapter to 192.168.1.150; subnet 255.255.255.0; gateway as per the ethernet adapter providing internet access (192.168.1.99).; DNS 8.8.8.8. Configure the client station to 192.168.1.200; subnet 255.255.255.
If for some reason the CPE IP settings are not correct the CPE will scan and connect for about 20-50 seconds. This is because the CPE is unable to get an internet connection and therefore will not get a valid channel list and the CPE TX will not stay on. The CPE will continue to scan after 20-50 seconds43. A full scan takes about 5 minutes. In the screen shot below the IP address is incompatible with internet access. (This assumes that the CPE and the BTS have compatible SSID).
CPE monitor page once CPE connected to BTS and CPE makes a successful database enquiry. Now, the second PC is connected to the client station radio-and also has internet access since the map is visible. Once this procedure has been completed the radios can be configured for the actual network they will be used on.
Using a MiFi Hotspot to Configure a Client Radio with a Tablet It is essential that installers are able to configure the client radio quickly and also align the client radio antenna to the strongest signal from the preferred base station. Because of the nature of the propagation of UHF signals the client station radio should be mounted as high as possible above ground level.
Configuring the MiFi Assume we will use the following internet settings: Internet gateway is 192.168.0.1; Subnet is 255.255.255.0 Base station is 192.168.0.22; Subnet is 255.255.255.0 Client station is 192.168.0.100; Subnet is 255.255.255.0 We will allocate a fixed address to the ethernet port of the MiFi unit of 192.168.0.254. We will set a limited range of DHCP addresses on the WiFi access point of the MiFi unit to be 192.168.0.250 to 253. WARNING: This means allocating 192.168.0.
LAN Configuration Connect to the MiFi unit using the default settings provided with the unit. Set the ethernet first. In the unit GUI below, we set as follows: The LAN port of the MiFi is now configured to be compatible with the data port of the POE midspan of the client radio, and more importantly the subnet of the GWS radios and the Edge Router gateway IP address.
WiFi Configuration Remember the tablet, laptop or phone will connect to the WiFI access point of the MiFi unit. In order for the tablet to see the IP addresses of the CPE and the gateway it must be on the same subnet. We enable DHCP & set a valid range for the IP addresses that will not cause an IP conflict (i.e. a range of addresses allocated to management). NOTE: The gateway for the DHCP WiFi access point of the MiFi unit is the edge router gateway IP address.
Set the WiFi password: Connecting to the GWS Radio via the WiFi Access Point of the MiFi Unit Connect the MiFi Unit LAN port to the data port of the midspan attached to the client station GWS radio using a Cat5e cable. Connect a tablet or similar, to the WiFi of the MiFi unit using the SSID of “6Harmonics Hub”, and the password of “6harmonics”.
We can see that the tablet has pulled a DHCP address of 192.168.0.200, i.e. part of the previously pre-defined management IP pool. On the tablet or phone open Chrome and login in to the client station GWS radio using 192.168.0.100. Enter the username and password & the main GUI for the client station radio will open: The password can be saved.
WARNING: In the example above the client GWS radio has connected to the base station. The tablet has then been able to obtain an IP address from the MiFi and also gain access to the internet. We know the tablet has access to the internet because the map appears. If the client station GWS has NOT connected to the base station the tablet will not have internet access. More importantly the MiFi unit will NOT have internet access either.
Summary: • We configured a battery operated MiFi unit to act as a portable WiFi access point with backhaul over the GWS radio link. • We used a tablet or phone to access the GWS radio over WiFi. • A wired connection to a laptop is not required to access the client station radio, only a wireless connection to a tablet or phone is needed in the field.
Features The features tab can be accessed from the System Tab. If a feature is available, it will appear as above. Automatic Gain Control (AGC) Click on the button to access the AGC window. Click on the AGC Mode slider to toggle AGC between enabled / disabled. If enabled check the Radio Status window on The Monitor Tab shows “Auto” in the RX Gain section. For most deployments the GWS radio should have AGC enabled.
The choice of manual RX gain is determined by the best SNR and MCS the radio link exhibits. WARNING: Do not use RSSI or Noise as metrics to determine the optimum RX Gain. The optimum RX Gain is when the radio link has maximum throughput, so use SNR and MCS as the metrics to determine the manual RX Gain setting.
ATF Reserved Client RTS Reserved Security (PSK) Reserved TDMA Reserved SNMP Reserved 122
Link Watchdog Click on the Link Watchdog bar to display the Link Watchdog window: The display shows the link watchdog version and status. The display should show “2 5 50” What does this feature do? The GWS radios are based on a WiFi protocol which, as discussed previously, is a listenbefore-talk (LBT) protocol.
In these extreme cases, the Connection Status window on the Monitor tab will show “link stabilizing” continuously as the link is constantly broken, re-established and broken again. In terms of throughput, a residential router behind the client station radio will see a very unstable internet connection which appears fine for a few seconds and then is broken. In this case the Link Watchdog settings may need to be changed to reduce the sensitivity to triggering the reconnect processes.
Troubleshooting Troubleshooting suggestions to resolve common issues that may arise during setup and operation: Symptoms Unable to access the radio Possible Cause POE cables or power cord are not properly connected Actions Details Check to see if POE LEDs are on. Check cable for continuity. Check AC power or DC power supply. AC LED not on, AC power cord not plugged in Check if PC ethernet LED is on and blinking. Check cable for continuity.
Link performance poor No connection even though radios indicate TX on, and link was previously fine. Connection becomes unstable and Connection Status continuously shows “link stabilizing” During a bench-test, field survey or install, radio operates then suddenly access is lost. After a power outage or POE is exposed to significant surge the radio is not accessible. SNR is good but MCS is poor, throughput is poor.
The CPE scans onto the base station channel and connects for ~1 second and continues to scan The CPE scans onto the base station channel and connects for ~40 second and continues to scan. Long Ping times and packet loss Radio not operational after a power outage. Aggregate throughput of base station lower than expected Change channel or contact 6Harmonics in case additional external filtering required.
Enable TDMA 128
Other Security The 6Harmonics wireless network solution establishes wireless links between base stations and client stations as a Layer 2 link. As such security can be implemented at the application layer as an end-to-end security approach between the end user and the data source such as a banking website. This ensures that links can be made as secure as applications allow. If there is no end-to-end security implemented the wireless link itself can be PSK encrypted at Layer 3 (IP packet) with 128AES.
Service and Support 6Harmonics is committed to providing customer service before, during and after equipment sales. For 30 days after equipment purchase 6Harmonics will provide unlimited online or phone support to help customers complete an installation. After 30 days phone support is chargeable unless a service agreement is purchased as part of the equipment purchase. Onsite engineering support is available from 6Harmonics for design, installation and ongoing maintenance.
Appendix Regulatory Key regulatory considerations for deployment are summarized in the following table: Country / Regulatory Body ITU Region Allowed Frequency Range (MHz) Antenna Height AGL Max (m) EIRP Max per DTT channel (dBm) Channel Plan Database Provider(s) UK / OFCOM45 1 470-790 30 36 1 Nominet USA / FCC46 2 470-698 100 40 0 Nominet Canada / ISED 2 470-698 30 40 0 TBD Singapore / IDA47 3 478-738 0 TBD New Zealand/RSM48 3 510-606 1 TBD South Africa 1 1 TBD Colo
Database Parameters TVWS Data Base Parameters by Database Provider & Regulatory Domain Parameter Tupdate (Channel Validity on Radio) Tvalididity (Channel Validity at database) N (Weblisting of database URL Validity) OFCOM 15 minutes 1440 minutes 1440 minutes Nominet Test Database (sandbox) 60 seconds 57 minutes 65 minutes GWS radio capability 30 seconds 30 seconds 30 seconds Please note N>Tvalidity>Tupdate The way the database query processes work as follows: The regulator provides a list of
Regulatory Notice USA See FCC Regulatory Notice.
Regulatory Notice Canada Declaration of RF Exposure Compliance for Exemption from Routine Evaluation Limits ATTESTATION: I attest that the radiocommunication apparatus meets the exemption from the routine evaluation limits in Section 2.
Technical Brief RF Exposure Limits ISED requires the maximum permissible exposure at 20cm separation distance to the user / bystander to be declared following RSS-10252. Since the distance between the user / bystander in normal operation exceeds 20cm then as per Section 2.5.
Regulatory Notice UK Manufacturers Declaration These radios are provided with a separate EU Declaration of Conformity (DoC) which states that these radios are imported, sold or distributed in the EU subject to meeting the requisite EN standards. Base Station Unique identification of the product: GWS-5002 Software load BTS Name and address of the manufacturer: 6Harmonics Inc.
References to the relevant standards used (or references to the specifications in relation to which conformity is declared): • EN 301 598 V1.1.1 • EN 301 598 V2.1.1 • EN 301.489-1 Notified Body Notified body: Nemko (1622) Performed: EN 301 598 V2.1.
Client Station Unique identification of the product: GWS-5002 Software load CPE Name and address of the manufacturer: 6Harmonics Inc. Suite 10 21 Concourse Gate Ottawa K2E 7S4 This declaration of conformity is issued under the sole responsibility of the manufacturer, 6Harmonics Inc.
Notified Body Notified body: Nemko 1622 Performed: EN 301 598 V2.1.
Relationship between EN 301.598 and the essential requirements of Directive 2014/53/EU U=unconditionally applicable; C=conditionally applicable. Harmonized Standard ETSI EN 301.598 Requirement Conditionality Requirement No Description Status Reference / Clause Number U/C 24MHz 4.2.3 U 1 Nominal Channel Bandwidth 2 Total Nominal Channel Bandwidth 470-774MHz 4.2.3 U 3 RF Power 28dBm/8MHz (Class 1) 4.2.4 U 4 RF Power Spectral Density <11dBm/100kHz 4.2.
Product Information and Operational Parameters Master Parameter Antenna Location Antenna Location Uncertainty Device Type Description Longitude and Latitude are displayed on the Monitor page in real time with a 1Hz refresh rate. Better than 50m with a 95% confidence level.
Slave Parameter Antenna Location Antenna Location Uncertainty Device Type Description Longitude and Latitude are displayed on the Monitor page in real time with a 1Hz refresh rate from the GNSS. Location on Monitor page has 60 second update. Better than 50m with a 95% confidence level.
Channel Plan In most countries, TV channels use either a 6MHz or an 8MHz channel. The channels have a lower edge frequency, centre frequency and upper edge frequency. Even though the actual TV broadcast technology may change by country the TV channel number and associated lower edge frequency, centre frequency and upper edge frequency are defined as follows: Channel Plan 0 Each channel is 6MHz.
Channel Lower edge (MHz) Centre Frequency (MHz) Upper edge (MHz) 26 542 545 548 27 548 551 554 28 554 557 560 29 560 563 566 30 566 569 572 31 572 575 578 32 578 581 584 33 584 587 590 34 590 593 596 35 596 599 602 36 602 605 608 37 608 611 614 38 614 617 620 39 620 623 626 40 626 629 632 41 632 635 638 42 638 641 644 43 644 647 650 44 650 653 656 45 656 659 662 46 662 665 668 47 668 671 674 48 674 677 680 144
Channel Lower edge (MHz) Centre Frequency (MHz) Upper edge (MHz) 49 680 683 686 50 686 689 692 51 692 695 698 52 698 701 704 53 704 707 710 54 710 713 716 55 716 719 722 56 722 725 728 57 728 731 734 58 734 737 740 59 740 743 746 60 746 749 752 61 752 755 758 62 758 761 764 63 764 767 770 64 770 773 776 145
Channel Plan 1 Each channel is 8MHz. Countries/regions using this channel plan include: United Kingdom, Ireland, Hong Kong, Macau, Falkland Islands and Southern Africa Western Europe, Greenland, most countries in Asia and Africa, and most of Oceania France, Eastern Europe, Former Soviet Union, French overseas territories and former French colonies in Africa. NB Australia only uses 520MHz (Channel 28) and up.
Channel Lower edge (MHz) Centre Frequency (MHz) Upper edge (MHz) 38 606 610 614 39 614 618 622 40 622 626 630 41 630 634 638 42 638 642 646 43 646 650 654 44 654 658 662 45 662 666 670 46 670 674 678 47 678 682 686 48 686 690 694 49 694 698 702 50 702 706 710 51 710 714 718 52 718 722 726 53 726 730 734 54 734 738 742 55 742 746 750 56 750 754 758 57 758 762 766 58 766 770 774 59 774 778 782 60 782 786 790 147
Antennas 6Harmonics provides a variety of UHF antennas to cover all typical deployment scenarios. When performing propagation modelling only performance values of 6Harmonics qualified antennas should be used. Not all antennas meet regulatory compliance with all GWS radio units in all regions. All antennas are 50 Ohm. Gain 9dBi 9dBi 9dBi 8dBi 11dBi 2dBi 6dBi 12dBi 6dBi 11dBi 12dBi 12dBi 13dBi 8dBi 12dBi 12dBi 9dBi 8dBi 7.
Many custom vertical or dual polarized options can be made available for deployment specific needs, such mobility. Please contact 6Harmonics for further details. Antennas for deployment in USA must be declared as approved components and used on an “equivalent or less” basis54 . Any antennas not supplied by 6Harmonics must be approved for use by 6Harmonics to maintain radio warranty. Correctly grounded lightning surge suppressors are required on the base station RF port. 54 FCC 15.204.(c).
Glossary of Terms MCS MCS refers to the Modulation Coding Scheme. RSSI Received signal strength indicator WinpCap WinPcap is the industry-standard tool for link-layer network access in Windows environments. It allows applications to capture and transmit network packets bypassing the protocol stack, and has additional useful features, including kernel-level packet filtering, a network statistics engine and support for remote packet capture.
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