User's Manual

8 MDS 1710A/C and MDS 2710A/C/D MDS 05-3447A01, Rev. F
MAS—Multiple Address System. A radio system where a central
master station communicates with several remote stations for the pur-
pose of gathering telemetry data.
Master (Station)—Radio which is connected to the host computer. It is
the point at which polling enters the network.
MCU—Microcontroller Unit. This is the processor responsible for con-
trolling system start-up, synthesizer loading, and key-up control.
Microcontroller Unit—See MCU.
Multiple Address System—See MAS.
Network-Wide Diagnostics—An advanced method of controlling and
interrogating MDS radios in a radio network.
Non-intrusive diagnostics—See Passive messaging.
Passive messaging—This is a mode of diagnostic gathering that does
not interrupt SCADA system polling communications. Diagnostic data
is collected non-intrusively over a period of time; polling messages are
carried with SCADA system data (contrast with active messaging).
Payload data—This is the application’s user communication data
which is sent over the radio network. It is the transfer of payload data
that is the primary purpose of the radio communications network.
Point-Multipoint System—A radio communications network or
system designed with a central control station that exchanges data with
a number of remote locations equipped with terminal equipment.
Poll—A request for data issued from the host computer (or master PLC)
to a remote radio.
PLC—Programmable Logic Controller. A dedicated microprocessor
configured for a specific application with discrete inputs and outputs. It
can serve as a host or as an RTU.
Programmable Logic Controller—See PLC.
Remote (Station)—A radio in a network that communicates with an
associated master station.
Remote Terminal Unit—See RTU.
Redundant Operation—A station arrangement where two transceivers
and two power supplies are available for operation, with automatic
switchover in case of a failure.