Amplink™ 1900I-F Operation & Installation Manual: 830-0026 Rev. 4P

AmpLink 1900i-F Operation & Installation Manual
830-0026 Rev. 4P
Limited Warranty
On a standard basis, Superconductor Technologies Inc. (STI) warrants its AmpLink 1900i-F to be free from any defect in material and workmanship for a period of one (1) year from the date of shipment. STIs sole obligation under this warranty is to repair or replace the AmpLink 1900i-F or any part thereof, which proves to be defective after inspection by STI. The warranty for the repaired or replaced AmpLink 1900i-F is the un-expired warranty period of the original AmpLink 1900i-F, or ninety (90) days whichever is greater. This warranty does not apply to any AmpLink 1900i-F that has been disassembled, modified, subjected to unusual electrical or physical stress, misuse, neglect, excessive deterioration or erosion, abuse, accident, unauthorized repair, improper installation, or use in any way that is contrary to the instructions set forth herein. STI is not liable for any indirect, incidental, consequential or special damages, including without limitation, lost profits and cost of procurement of substitute goods. This warranty is the full extent of obligation and liability assumed by STI with respect to its AmpLink 1900i-F. STI neither assumes nor authorizes any other person to assume for it any other obligations or liability in connection with the sale, installation or use of its AmpLink 1900i-F.

830-0026 Rev. 4P
STI 460 Ward Drive Santa Barbara, California 93111 Telephone: 805.690.4500 Fax: 805.967.0342 E-mail: info@suptech.com Web: www.suptech.com
STI Technical Support 1.800.727.3648
Information in this document is subject to change without notice. No part of this document may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, for any purpose, without the express written permission of Superconductor Technologies Inc. 2004-2009 Superconductor Technologies Inc (STI). All rights reserved. AmpLink 1900i-F is a trademark of Superconductor Technologies Inc. (STI). All other marks are properties of their respective owners. STI part number: 830-0026 Rev. 4P. Last updated: 1/15/09.
Table of Contents
Preface: About this Manual .................................................................................................. 9 Overview ........................................................................................................................ 9 General Safety ................................................................................................................10 Warnings, Cautions, and Notes ...............................................................................10 Electrostatic Discharge ..........................................................................................10 How to Contact STI..........................................................................................................10 Chapter 1: AmpLink 1900i-F Overview ............................................................................... 11 Overview .......................................................................................................................11 AmpLink 1900i-F Configuration..........................................................................................12 Equipment Configuration .......................................................................................12 System Configuration............................................................................................12 Functional Description ......................................................................................................12 RF Signal Flow .....................................................................................................12 Power .................................................................................................................13 Alarm .................................................................................................................13 Indicators and Connectors ................................................................................................14 Front View...........................................................................................................14 Rear View............................................................................................................15 Chapter 2: AmpLink 1900i-F Installation Requirements.................................................... 17 Overview .......................................................................................................................17 Installation Requirements .................................................................................................17 Conducting a Site Survey.......................................................................................17 Site Requirements ................................................................................................18 Mounting Requirements.........................................................................................18 Reviewing Equipment Shipped from STI...................................................................19 Material Requirements ..........................................................................................19 Tool Requirements................................................................................................20 Test Equipment Requirements ................................................................................20 Chapter 3: Installing the AmpLink 1900i-F......................................................................... 21 Overview .......................................................................................................................21 Unpacking the AmpLink 1900i-F ........................................................................................21 Mounting the AmpLink 1900i-F ..........................................................................................22 Connecting Wires ............................................................................................................22 Connecting the Safety Ground Wire.........................................................................22 Connecting the Power Wire ....................................................................................23 Connecting Alarm Relays .......................................................................................23 Performing Power Up .......................................................................................................24 Performing Functional Checks............................................................................................25 Alarm Relay Test ..................................................................................................25 Test Generator Calibration Data..............................................................................25 RF System Test ....................................................................................................26 Wiring for Redundancy .....................................................................................................28 Connecting RF Jumper Cables ...........................................................................................28
vi
Chapter 4: AmpLink 1900i-F Maintenance and Troubleshooting Tips ................................. 31 Overview .......................................................................................................................31 Periodic AmpLink 1900i-F Maintenance Checklist ..................................................................31 Troubleshooting Tips........................................................................................................32 Instructions for Return Shipment .......................................................................................34
Appendix A: AmpLink 1900i-F Specifications ..................................................................... 35 Index .................................................................................................................................. 37
vii
List of Figures
Figure Figure Figure Figure Figure Figure Figure Figure Figure Figure Figure Figure Figure Figure 1. Typical base station integrated with the AmpLink 1900i-F ..............................................11 2. RF signal flow block diagram .....................................................................................12 3. Functional block diagram ..........................................................................................13 4. Front panel indicators and connectors .........................................................................14 5. ANTENNA / BTS connectors .......................................................................................15 6. AmpLink units mounted on an equipment rack shelf......................................................18 7. AmpLink units mounted longitudinally on a cable ladder kit............................................18 8. Voltage polarity for 27 VDC (left) and -48 VDC power (right) .........................................23 9. Alarm relay in normal and fault states ........................................................................24 10. Test generator calibration data setup block diagram....................................................26 11. RF system test connections for receive / transmit paths...............................................26 12. Swept response for receive / transmit paths ..............................................................27 13. Wiring for redundancy ............................................................................................28 14. RF jumper cable connections pre- and post-AmpLink installation ...................................29
List of Tables
Table Table Table Table Table Table Table Table Table 1. Front Panel Indicators ...............................................................................................14 2. Front View Description...............................................................................................14 3. Rear View Description................................................................................................15 4. Equipment Supplied ..................................................................................................19 5. Materials Required ....................................................................................................19 6. Tools Required .........................................................................................................20 7. Test Equipment Required ...........................................................................................20 8. PWR / LNA1 and LNA2 LED Troubleshooting..................................................................31 A1. AmpLink 1900i-F Specifications .................................................................................35
viii
Preface: About this Manual

Overview
The AmpLink 1900i-F Operation and Installation manual provides detailed information on the installation requirements and procedures, testing procedures, and maintenance and troubleshooting tips for proper AmpLink 1900i-F operation and installation. The following summary provides information about the chapters and appendix.
Chapter Preface 1 Title About this Manual AmpLink 1900i-F Overview Description Provides general information about the manual. Describes the role of the AmpLink 1900i-F in a typical wireless base station system. Provides information on AmpLink 1900i-F equipment configurations and functional descriptions. Lists the tools, materials, and test equipment required for proper AmpLink 1900i-F installation. Provides the following information for installing the AmpLink 1900i-F: mounting the unit, connecting the safety ground, power, and alarm wires, performing power up, performing functional checks, and connecting RF jumper cables. Provides information about inspecting the AmpLink 1900i-F on a periodic basis and basic troubleshooting tips for problems that may occur during installation or operation. This chapter concludes with instructions for returning the AmpLink 1900i-F in an event of a failure. Provides information on power requirements, physical dimensions, and environmental specifications.
AmpLink 1900i-F Installation Requirements Installing the AmpLink 1900i-F
AmpLink 1900i-F Maintenance and Troubleshooting Tips
Appendix A
AmpLink 1900i-F Specifications
10
General Safety Warnings, Cautions, and Notes

Warnings, cautions, and notes are used throughout the manual. Review the significance of each:
A warning denotes a hazard to personnel. A warning calls attention to a procedure, which if not correctly performed or adhered to, could result in injury to personnel. A caution denotes a hazard to equipment. A caution calls attention to a procedure, which if not correctly performed or adhered to, could result in damage to the equipment A note calls attention to a procedure for informational purposes only.
Electrostatic Discharge
The AmpLink 1900i-F contains components that are subject to damage from electrostatic discharge (ESD). Ensure that you adhere to all appropriate ESD precautions. The following caution appears throughout the manual during procedures in which the AmpLink 1900i-F may be subject to damage by ESD.
The AmpLink unit contains components that are subject to damage from electrostatic discharge (ESD). Take precautionary measures when handling AmpLink components.
How to Contact STI

STI Technical Support 1.800.727.3648 STI Customer Service 1.888.800.5314
For your convenience, the STI Technical Support number is located at the bottom of each page throughout the manual.
Chapter 1: AmpLink 1900i-F Overview
11

Overview
The AmpLink 1900i-F (AmpLink) is a Low Noise Amplifier (LNA) with a dual duplexer that connects in-line (cascade) with the existing base station equipment. The superior performance of the AmpLink unit enables wireless service providers to enhance customer satisfaction and increase subscriber base by improving the quality of voice and data connections within networks. Figure 1 shows a typical wireless telecommunications base station integrated with the AmpLink unit.
Figure 1. Typical base station integrated with the AmpLink 1900i-F
Some benefits of integrating the AmpLink unit in a wireless telecommunications network include: Improved receiver noise figure Designed for ease of use Low power consumption Maintenance-free operation Convenient base station installation
12
AmpLink 1900i-F Configuration Equipment Configuration

The AmpLink unit is available for use in the United States Personal Communication Service (PCS) wireless frequencies. Available in a 2-channel RF receiver configuration, the AmpLink unit supports either a site with omni-directional antennas or a single sector of a sectored base station. A sectored base station requires three AmpLink units.
System Configuration
The AmpLink unit connects in-line (cascade) with existing base station equipment. Figure 2 shows the AmpLink unit installed in a PCS base station sector. As shown, the antenna feed cable connects directly to the antenna port of the AmpLink unit to provide a clear, low noise signal to the base station receiver.
Figure 2. RF signal flow block diagram
Functional Description
See Figure 3 on page 13 for a functional block diagram of the AmpLink unit.
RF Signal Flow
Do not apply DC voltage to any RF port.
RF signals to / from the antenna connect to the AmpLink connectors labeled ANTENNA CH1 and CH2. The dual-duplexers split transmit / receive signals into their respective paths as shown in Figure 3. After the receive signals leave the duplexers, they route to a sensitive LNA, and then recombine with the transmit path for connection to the base station receivers.
13
Power
Base station input power (27 VDC or -48 VDC) connects to the POWER terminal block connections located on the front panel of the AmpLink unit. The input power routes through two 3A fuses to the power and alarm board. The input power requirement is 22 VDC to 60 VDC, suitable for connection to either 27 VDC power or -48 VDC power.
Alarm
The front panel of the AmpLink unit provides a terminal block for alarm connections. From the AmpLink unit, the multi-conductor alarm wire routes to the base station alarm system, allowing for remote alarm monitoring. The power and alarm board monitors the supply current to each LNA. If the current is too low (open circuit) or too high (short circuit) the self-test logic drives the alarm relay to the fault position.
Figure 3. Functional block diagram
14
Indicators and Connectors Front View

The AmpLink unit provides three indicators (LEDs), power and alarm terminal block connections, fuse holders, and a ground lug as described in Tables 1 and 2.
1 2 3
4 5 6
Figure 4. Front panel indicators and connectors
Table 1. Front Panel Indicators Item No. 1 2 3 Item LNA1 LED LNA2 LED PWR LED Description OFF: No fault in the AmpLink unit (CH1). RED: Fault in the AmpLink unit (CH1). OFF: No fault in the AmpLink unit (CH2). RED: Fault in the AmpLink unit (CH2). OFF: No power applied to the AmpLink unit. GREEN: Power applied to the AmpLink unit. Table 2. Front View Description Item No. 4 5 6 7 Item ALARM NC, C, and NO (terminal block) VDC IN + and (terminal block) FUSE VDC + and VDC GND Description Provides connection from the alarm relay to the base station alarm system. Provides input power connection for 27 VDC or -48 VDC. 27 VDC or -48 VDC input power provides 3A input power protection. Chassis ground lug.
15
Rear View
The AmpLink unit accommodates up to two RF paths, providing connections to the Antenna and BTS. For a sectored site, three AmpLink units are required. 7/16 DIN-female type connectors are used on the AmpLink unit.
2
Figure 5. ANTENNA / BTS connectors
Table 3. Rear View Description Item No. 1 Item ANTENNA CH1 / CH2 Description 7/16 DIN-type connector that receives RF signals from the antenna for each AmpLink receive path and passes Tx signals from the base station. 7/16 DIN-type connector that receives RF signals from each AmpLink receive path output to the base station front-end input and passes Tx signals from the base station.
BTS CH 1 / CH2
Do not apply DC voltage to any RF port.
16
Chapter 2: AmpLink 1900i-F Installation Requirements
17

Overview
Proper AmpLink installation requires equipment, tools, materials, and adequate site conditions. Conducting a site survey will determine the necessary requirements to prepare the site for AmpLink installation. Contact STI Technical Support for any questions regarding the installation requirements. Prior to installing the AmpLink unit, review the following installation tasks and requirements: Conducting a site survey Reviewing site requirements Reviewing mounting requirements Reviewing equipment shipped from STI Assembling tools and materials required for installation
Tools, materials, and test equipment are not supplied with the AmpLink unit. The following sections guide you in preparing the items you need to install the AmpLink unit. If you have questions about the installation requirements, contact STI Technical Support.
Installation Requirements Conducting a Site Survey

Conducting a site survey will determine the site requirements for proper AmpLink installation. For more information or further assistance, contact STI Technical Support. Consider the following as you complete a site survey: Base station configuration Are physical or software adjustments required to the base station? If software adjustments are required, what settings are appropriate to optimize the base station? Condition of the base station, antennas, and interconnections Inspect the current state of the site: Clear any alarms at the site, sweep antenna paths, and check interconnections for wear. Mounting location for new equipment For optimum performance, select a mounting location that provides the shortest connection between the antenna and the AmpLink unit. The chosen location will determine how you mount the AmpLink unit. Mounting kit requirements A mounting kit is required to properly mount the AmpLink unit: equipment rack shelf or cable ladder mount. STI offers both options to mount between one to three AmpLink units. Contact STI Customer Service for pricing and availability.
18
RF jumper cable and wiring requirements The AmpLink unit requires RF jumper cables and wiring (safety ground, power, and alarm). STI offers installation kits for your convenience. Contact STI Customer Service for pricing and availability. Installing AmpLink equipment From preparation to cutover, the installation typically requires four hours. Complete the installation anytime during the day which includes rerouting the RF jumper cables to / from the AmpLink unit. This process requires a technician capable of turning the base station transmitter off and then back on and reinitializing service. Complete cutover during maintenance hours.
Site Requirements
Review the following site requirements for proper AmpLink installation: Base station Sheltered enclosure with temperature and humidity control. Maintain the enclosure between 0C and 50C with conditioned air, and 0% to 90% for relative humidity (non-condensing). Mounting location Select a mounting location that provides space to access the RF jumper cables in the rear panel of the AmpLink unit. Power source 27 VDC (22 VDC to 30 VDC) or -48 VDC (-42 VDC to -60 VDC) power source provided through a power distribution circuit breaker of no more than 3A (3A to 5A) capability. Alarm relay monitoring Set up remote alarm monitoring connections for the AmpLink unit.
Mounting Requirements
A mounting kit is required to properly mount the AmpLink unit. STI offers two mounting options: Equipment rack shelf (part number 018-0216): The two-piece equipment rack shelf supports up to three AmpLink units in a 19 equipment rack. A 23 equipment rack shelf is also available (part number MK-AL1900iF-23ERS). Contact STI Customer Service for pricing and availability.
Figure 6. AmpLink units mounted on an equipment rack shelf
Cable ladder kit (part number 018-0217): If equipment rack space is limited, STI offers a cable ladder kit to mount up to three AmpLink units longitudinally or transversely below the cable ladder. A second, low cost, cable ladder kit is also available to mount the AmpLink units longitudinally only (part number 018-0217-002). Contact STI Customer Service for pricing and availability.
Figure 7. AmpLink units mounted longitudinally on a cable ladder kit
Contact STI Technical Support for more information about proper mounting options.
AmpLink 1900i-F Operation & Installation Manual STI Technical Support 1.800.727.3648
19
Reviewing Equipment Shipped from STI

Each AmpLink unit contains the items as described in Table 4. Contact STI Customer Service if items are missing from the table.
Table 4. Equipment Supplied Item No. 1 2 Item AmpLink 1900i-F Labels Part No. 1900ALFULL2-ID 185-0056-003 185-0056-004 185-0056-005 830-0026-02 831-0018 Qty 1 each 1 each Notes AmpLink 1900i-F as ordered. Labels provided to mark each AmpLink unit as Alpha, Beta, and Gamma. Provides a quick overview to properly install the AmpLink 1900i-F Contains the AmpLink 1900i-F Operation and Installation Manual.
3 4
AmpLink 1900i-F Quick Start Installation Guide STI CD
1 each 1 each
Material Requirements
Review the following materials required for AmpLink installation as described in Table 5.
Table 5. Materials Required Item No. 1 Item Antenna RF jumper cable, flexible, low loss (1/2 minimum) Qty 1 per antenna path, length as required 1 per BTS receive path, length as required Length as required Length as required Length as required 1 per unit Notes *7/16 DIN connectors, male to male. This cable must be long enough to connect between the existing antenna feed coaxial connector and the AmpLink ANTENNA port. (Rerouting the existing feed jumper cable is recommended for this cable.). *7/16 DIN connectors, male to male. This cable must be long enough to connect between the existing input connector of the base station receiver and the AmpLink BTS port. Red and black wire preferred for color-coding + and power. If desired, for connecting the AmpLink alarm relay outputs to the base station system alarm control unit. For connecting the AmpLink chassis ground to the base station ground. Used to install the AmpLink unit and perform functional checks. (Use no more than a 5A circuit breaker for DC power source.) For dressing RF jumper cables after integration. For labeling RF jumper cables per sector.
BTS RF jumper cable, flexible, low loss (1/2 minimum)
3 4
Wire, power (16 AWG) Wire, alarm (24 AWG)
5 6
Wire, safety ground (6 AWG) Circuit breaker, 5A
7 8
Nylon wire ties Tape / labels
As required As required
*Assumes BTS port and antenna feed cable terminations are 7/16 DIN-female connectors.
20
Tool Requirements
Review the following tools required for AmpLink installation as described in Table 6.
Table 6. Tools Required Item No. 1 2 3 6 7 8 Item Screwdriver, 1/8 flat blade Wrench, 7/16 Allen wrench, 3/16 Torque wrench Wire stripper Wire cutter (diagonal cutter) Notes For power and alarm connections, and removing fuses. For loosening / tightening ground lug. For tightening ground wire to ground lug. For torquing RF connectors with a setting of 221+4 in-lbs. For preparing power, alarm, and safety ground wire for proper connection. For preparing power, alarm, and safety ground wire for proper installation. Also used for nylon wire tie removal.
Test Equipment Requirements

Review the following test equipment required to perform functional checks to the AmpLink unit as described in Table 7.
Table 7. Test Equipment Required Item No. 1 2 Item Digital Multimeter (DMM) or equivalent RF Signal Generator Notes Checks alarm relays and input power. Generates a continuous wave (CW) carrier for the following: Rx path: 1850 MHz to 1910 MHz Output level adjusted to -50+1 dBm Tx path: 1930 MHz to 1990 MHz Output level adjusted to -50+1 dBm Receives and displays CW carrier at 1850 MHz (Rx path) and 1990 MHz (Tx path) across levels -55 dBm to -35 dBm. Measure received power level accurately (+1 dB). DIN-male connectors required for AmpLink connections. Replaces the AmpLink unit for test signal level calibration. Requires two adapters and connects the AmpLink unit to the RF Signal Generator / Spectrum Analyzer.
Spectrum Analyzer
4 5 6
Test cables Connector adapter, 7/16 DIN-female to 7/16 DIN-male (7/16 DIN barrel) Connector adapter, 7/16 DIN-male to N-type female*
*This connector adapter (Table 7, Item 6) assumes that the RF Signal Generator and the Spectrum Analyzer use the DIN-female connector and test cables are DIN-male to N-male.
Chapter 3: Installing the AmpLink 1900i-F
21

Overview
Qualified technicians should install the AmpLink unit. Contact STI Technical Support for assistance.
The information described in this chapter can be considered installation guidelines. Technicians should adhere to all local building and electrical codes and permit requirements.
Proper AmpLink installation consists of the following tasks: Unpacking the AmpLink unit Mounting the AmpLink unit Connecting the safety ground, power, and alarm wires Performing power up Performing functional checks Connecting RF jumper cables
This chapter describes a generic installation procedure. BTS-specific application notes are available. Contact STI Technical Support for more information.
See Tables 4-7 for reference to the items required in each section.
Unpacking the AmpLink 1900i-F

The unboxed AmpLink unit weighs 41 lbs. To prevent injury to personnel and damage to equipment, it is recommended that two people are available to move the AmpLink unit.
1 2 3
Inspect the shipping container for signs of damage. Report any damage to STI Customer Service. Remove loose packing materials on top of the AmpLink unit. Set aside the packet containing the CD. With the foam packing material in place, lift the AmpLink unit from the shipping container. Place the AmpLink unit on a level surface and remove the foam packing material from the unit. Inspect the AmpLink unit for signs of damage. Report any damage to STI Customer Service. Retain the shipping container and all packing materials for reuse. Store the shipping container in a dry place.
4 5
22
Mounting the AmpLink 1900i-F

The unboxed AmpLink unit weighs 41 lbs. To prevent injury to personnel and damage to equipment, it is recommended that two people are available to move the AmpLink unit. Labels are provided to mark each AmpLink unit for identification: Alpha, Beta, and Gamma.
A mounting kit is required to properly mount the AmpLink unit. STI offers two mounting options: Equipment rack shelf (part number 018-0216): The two-piece equipment rack shelf supports up to three AmpLink units in a 19 equipment rack. A 23 equipment rack shelf is also available (part number MK-AL1900iF-23ERS). Cable ladder kit (part number 018-0217): If equipment rack space is limited, STI offers a cable ladder kit to mount up to three AmpLink units longitudinally or transversely below the cable ladder. A second, low cost, cable ladder kit is also available to mount the AmpLink units longitudinally only (part number 018-0217-002). Contact STI Customer Service for pricing and availability.
Mounting instructions and hardware are included with each mounting kit. Contact STI Customer Service for pricing and availability.
Connecting Wires Connecting the Safety Ground Wire

Equipment required: Materials required:
Safety ground wire (6 AWG)
Tools required:
Wrench, 7/16 Allen wrench, 3/16 Wire stripper Wire cutter
1 2 3
Using a wire stripper and a wire cutter, strip and cut the safety ground wire to proper length. Using an Allen wrench (3/16), loosen the ground lug screw, insert the safety ground wire into the cavity, and tighten the ground lug screw until secure. Connect the other end of the safety ground wire to the base station equipment ground or the equipment single point ground plate.
23
Connecting the Power Wire

Keep the power wire to less than 30 feet in length.
Before proceeding with the power wire connection, set the circuit breaker to the open or off position. Failure to comply may result in personnel injury.
Equipment required:
Materials required:
Power wire (16 AWG)
Tools required:
Wire stripper Wire cutter Flat blade screwdriver, 1/8
1 2 3 4 5
Remove the fuses from the AmpLink unit. Select a circuit breaker in the power panel. Operate (open) the circuit breaker to turn off power in the circuit. Using a wire stripper, strip the power wires insulation (1/2) and twist the strands. Using a flat blade screwdriver (1/8), loosen the screw on the terminal block. Insert the power wire into the terminal block while carefully maintaining the correct voltage polarity. Do not close the circuit breaker at this time.
+27V
0V
0V
-48V
Figure 8. Voltage polarity for 27 VDC (left) and -48 VDC power (right) Although the AmpLink unit accepts positive or negative DC power, care must be taken to maintain proper voltage polarity. Connect the positive voltage to the + terminal only and the negative voltage to the - terminal only.
6 7
Tighten the screw and verify that the power wire is securely clamped to the terminal. Route the power wire and connect it to the base station power distribution circuit breaker. Do not close the circuit breaker at this time.
Connecting Alarm Relays

By connecting the output of the AmpLink alarm relays to the base station alarm system, remote alarm monitoring is possible. Figure 9 shows the states of the alarm relays.
24
Figure 9. Alarm relay in normal and fault states
Equipment required:
Materials required:
Alarm wire (24 AWG)
Tools required:
Wire stripper Wire cutter Flat blade screwdriver, 1/8
1 2 3 4 5
Using a wire stripper, strip the alarm wires insulation (1/2). Using a flat blade screwdriver (1/8), loosen the screw on the terminal block. Insert the alarm wire into the terminal block labeled C and NC or NO as required by the base station alarm system. Tighten the screw and verify that the alarm wire is securely clamped to the terminal. Route the alarm wire to the base station alarm connection point. Do not close the circuit breaker at this time.
Performing Power Up
Before proceeding with power up, set the power base station distribution circuit breaker to the open or off position. Failure to comply may result in personnel injury.
Equipment required:
Circuit breaker DMM
Materials required:
Tools required:
1 2 3 4 5 6
Ensure the circuit breaker is set to the open or off position. Remove the fuses from the fuse holders on the front panel of the AmpLink unit. Set the circuit breaker to the closed or on position. Using a DMM, verify that the AmpLink input voltage and polarity at the terminal block contact reads the following: 22 VDC to 30 VDC or -42 VDC to -60 VDC. After verifying proper voltage and polarity, turn the circuit breaker off, and install the fuses in the fuse holders. Setting the circuit breaker to the closed or on position, apply power to the AmpLink unit.
25
Performing Functional Checks

Before performing any functional checks, the AmpLink unit must be in Normal operation, indicated by the PWR LED in GREEN and the LNA1 and LNA2 LEDs turned off. If the AmpLink fails to go into Normal operation, review the Troubleshooting Tips section on page 32 or contact STI Technical Support for assistance. AmpLink functional checks consist of the following tasks: Alarm relay test Test generator calibration data RF system test Materials required:
7/16 DIN-type barrel connector adapter Test cables
Equipment required:
RF Signal Generator Spectrum Analyzer
Tools required:
Before proceeding with the functional checks, turn on the RF Signal Generator and the Spectrum Analyzer to warm them up. Consult the equipment operator manuals for proper test equipment warm up time.
Alarm Relay Test

Before performing the alarm relay test, the AmpLink unit must be in Normal operation, indicated by the PWR LED in GREEN and the LNA1 and LNA2 LEDs turned off.
Power off the AmpLink unit to place the alarm relay in alarm condition. Verify that the base station alarm is activated. The alarm relay is now in alarm condition, indicated by the PWR LED turned off. Verify that the base station alarm is activated. Power on the AmpLink unit to return to Normal operation (PWR LED in GREEN and the LNA1 and LNA2 LEDs turned off). Verify that the base station alarm is no longer activated.
Test Generator Calibration Data

A signal power measurement is the reference level for verifying AmpLink RF path gain and loss values. 1 2 Allow the RF Signal Generator and the Spectrum Analyzer to warm up. Set the RF Signal Generator to output a CW signal: Rx path 1850 MHz to 1910 MHz Power level set to -50+1 dBm Tx path 1930 MHz to 1990 MHz Power level set to -50+1 dBm
Connect the RF Signal Generator output to the Spectrum Analyzer as shown in Figure 10. Substitute a 7/16 DIN-type barrel connector adapter for the AmpLink unit.
7/16 DIN-male to N-type female connector adapters may be required to connect the RF Signal Generator and the Spectrum Analyzer to the barrel adapter or to the AmpLink unit.
26
Figure 10. Test generator calibration data setup block diagram
4 5
Measure the signal frequency and power level, and note both values. Remove the 7/16 DIN-type barrel connector adapter.
RF System Test
The RF jumper cables between the AmpLink unit and the base station are not connected for the RF System Test.
Receive Path 1 2 Remove the ESD covers from the RF connectors, and store them in the shipping container. Connect the test equipment to the AmpLink unit as shown in Figure 11: RF Signal Generator out to ANTENNA CH1 Spectrum Analyzer in to BTS CH1
RF Signal Generator
ANTENNA CH 1
AmpLink AmpLink1900i-F 1900i-F BTS CH 1
Spectrum Analyzer
Figure 11. RF system test connections for receive / transmit paths
3 4 5
Set the RF Signal Generator to the receive center band frequency of 1880 MHz and power level of -50+1 dBm. Apply power to the AmpLink unit. Measure RF power level as shown on the Spectrum Analyzer at the center band frequency of 1880 MHz: Pass: Gain > 12 dB Fail: Gain < 12 dB
27
In an event of a failure, you must return the AmpLink unit to STI. See the Instructions for Return Shipment section on page 34 for more information. 6 Repeat steps 2-5 for Channel 2 (Rx only).
Transmit Path
Complete the Receive Path test before continuing with the Transmit Path test.
Connect the test equipment to the AmpLink unit: RF Signal Generator out to BTS CH1 Spectrum Analyzer in to ANTENNA CH1
Measure RF power levels as shown on the Spectrum Analyzer at the center band frequency of 1960 MHz: Pass: Gain < -1 dB Fail: Gain > -1 dB
In an event of a failure, you must return the AmpLink unit to STI. See the Instructions for Return Shipment section on page 34 for more information. 3 Repeat steps 1-2 for Channel 2 (Tx only).
If you have access to a Spectrum Analyzer with a tracking generator, or RF Signal Generator with sweep mode, you can set the unit to sweep across 1500 MHz to 2300 MHz for the RF system test. You should see displays similar to those shown in Figure 12.
AmpLink 1900i-F 1900e-F AmpLink Antenna Port to BTS Port
20
Rx
-20
dB
Tx
-40
-60
-80 1800 1850 1900 1950 2000 2050 MHz
MHz
Figure 12. Swept response for receive / transmit paths
28
Wiring for Redundancy

To provide sector-by-sector redundancy, main and diversity signals from a single sector should not be connected to the same AmpLink unit. In an event of a single unit failure, a configuration with two RF paths from one sector, processed by two different AmpLink units, will keep the sector operational. Figure 13 shows one way of assigning the channels for improved reliability.
Figure 13. Wiring for redundancy
Connecting RF Jumper Cables

This section applies to a sectored base station (6-receive channel). Three AmpLink units are required. Do not apply DC voltage to any RF port.
Turn off the transmit power in the base station before proceeding.
Before proceeding with RF jumper cable connections, the AmpLink unit must be in Normal operation, indicated by the PWR LED in GREEN and the LNA1 and LNA2 LEDs turned off. This section assumes that the antenna cables connected to the base station will be disconnected and used for the top row of the AmpLink unit. From this point forward, call service may be interrupted.
Equipment required:
Materials required:
RF jumper cables Nylon wire ties Tape / Labels
Tools required:
Torque wrench
Prepare a set of RF jumper cables that will reach from the AmpLink unit to the base station Main and Diversity antenna connections. Sweep the RF jumper cables to verify performance. Label the RF jumper cables with tape or labels for identification.
29
2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9
Turn off the base station transmit power. In the first receive path, reuse the existing RF jumper cable to connect between the base station Tx / Rx input and the main AmpLink BTS CH1 output. Using a new RF jumper cable, connect between the antenna and the AmpLink ANTENNA CH1 port. Using a torque wrench, torque the 7/16 DIN-type connectors to 221+4 in-lbs. Repeat steps 3-5 for the remaining RF connections (ANTENNA CH2, BTS CH2). Repeat steps 1-5 for the remaining AmpLink units. Turn on the base station transmit power. Verify site performance by making test calls. Dress the RF jumper cables with nylon wire ties as required.
Figure 14. RF jumper cable connections pre- and post-AmpLink installation
30
Chapter 4: AmpLink 1900i-F Maintenance and Troubleshooting Tips
31

Overview
Although the AmpLink unit is maintenance free, periodic inspections are suggested. The frequency of inspections depends on the installation site conditions. If a problem is found with the AmpLink unit, basic troubleshooting tips for the most common problems and possible resolutions are provided. Contact STI Technical Support if the problem continues with the AmpLink unit, or the problem at hand is not available in this chapter. If the AmpLink problem continues, the unit must be returned to STI. Instructions are provided at the end of this chapter to return a failed AmpLink unit. Contact STI Customer Service for questions regarding AmpLink replacement or repair.
Periodic AmpLink 1900i-F Maintenance Checklist

Periodic inspections of the installation site are suggested. Review the following AmpLink maintenance checklist to assist in the inspection. Mounting hardware: Check that the AmpLink units are securely mounted. RF jumper cables: Check the RF jumper cables for damage. Replace RF jumper cables as required. Wire connections: Check the safety ground, power, and alarm wires for damage. Replace wires as required. PWR and LNA1 or LNA2 LEDs: Check the PWR, LNA1 and LNA2 LEDs:
Table 8. PWR / LNA1 and LNA2 LED Troubleshooting State Normal operation PWR LED LNA1 / LNA2 LED Description AmpLink unit in Normal operation. If LEDs display RED, see the Troubleshooting Tips section on page 32 to resolve the problem. If LEDs are off, check the power to the base station. If the base station is powered on, the AmpLink unit may have an internal fault. Contact STI Technical Support for assistance.
Fault mode
Contact STI Technical Support for any questions you may have during the inspection.
32
Troubleshooting Tips
Problems may occur during installation, or from hardware failures that occur during operation. This section identifies the most common problems, providing troubleshooting tips to resolve them. If your specific AmpLink problem does not appear in this list, contact STI Technical Support for assistance. 1 2 3 4
Problem No.
PWR LED off.
Description
Page 33
Page No.
Fuse blows or circuit breaker trips. RED LED illuminates on any one of the following LEDs: LNA1 or LNA2. BTS path failure (PWR LED on, and both LNA1 and LNA2 LEDs off, but no signal is coming through).
Page 33 Page 34 Page 34
33
Problem 1 Cause 1.1 Solution 1.1a Solution 1.1b Solution 1.1c Cause 1.2 Solution 1.2 Cause 1.3 Solution 1.3
PWR LED off. DC power wire connection is not complete / correct. Check power wire for proper continuity. Replace wires if necessary. Check power wires for continuity. Replace wires if necessary. Check that the DC breaker is on and supplying power. Replace the breaker if necessary. Fuse blown. Replace fuse (3A) and power on the AmpLink unit again. Other. Contact STI Technical Support for assistance.
Problem 2 Cause 2.1 Solution 2.1
Fuse blows or circuit breaker trips. Incorrect voltage polarity applied. Check that the voltage polarity matches the labels on the terminal block. If the polarity is correct, then continue with Cause 2.2. If the polarity is incorrect, change the polarity, replace the fuse, and / or reset the circuit breaker. Before you remove the fuse, turn off the circuit breaker to prevent injury. Incorrect voltage applied. Remove the fuse, close the circuit breaker, and check the voltage on the terminal block. Before you remove the fuse, turn off the circuit breaker to prevent injury. If the voltage does not fall between 22 VDC to 30 VDC or -42 VDC to -60 VDC, contact STI Technical Support for assistance. If the voltage lies within limits and the voltage polarity is correct, but the circuit breaker continues to trip, contact STI Technical Support for assistance. See the Performing Power Up section on page 24.
Cause 2.2 Solution 2.2
Wrong circuit breaker rating. Replace the fuse and try again. Before you remove the fuse, turn off the circuit breaker to prevent injury. If the circuit breaker blows / trips, check the rating. The circuit breaker rating should read between 3A to 5A (for both 27 VDC and -48 VDC). Replace the circuit breaker as required. Other. Contact STI Technical Support for assistance.
34
Problem 3
RED LED illuminates on any one of the following LEDs: LNA1 or LNA2. Failed LNA. Contact STI Technical Support for assistance. Other. Contact STI Technical Support for assistance.
Cause 3.1 Solution 3.1 Cause 3.2 Solution 3.2
Problem 4
BTS path failure (both LNA1 and LNA2 LEDs turned and input present, but no signal coming through).
Cause 4.1 Solution 4.1a Solution 4.1b Solution 4.1c Cause 4.2 Solution 4.2
External RF jumper cable failure. Check RF jumper cables for proper mating and secure connections. Check RF jumper cables for proper continuity of the center conductor and ground. Check RF jumper cables for proper return loss and Distance-to-Fault. Wrong BTS test frequency. Set the BTS test frequency as follows: 1930 MHz to 1990 MHz Power level set to -50+1 dBm
This setting tests the Tx path and measures -1 dB or less. If this test passes, retry the Rx path at any passband frequency (1850 MHz to 1910 MHz). Cause 4.3 Solution 4.3 Other. Contact STI Technical Support for assistance.
Instructions for Return Shipment

In an event of a failure, return the AmpLink unit to STI for repair. 1 Contact STI Customer Service for a Return Material Authorization (RMA) number. Provide the following information: 2 Model / serial numbers (located on the rear of the AmpLink unit) Comprehensive description as to the nature of the return
STI will send the RMA number and additional shipping instructions. Follow the instructions provided in the RMA paperwork to return the AmpLink unit to STI.
Failure to properly package the AmpLink unit could result in significant shipping damage. STI is not responsible for shipping damage due to improper packaging. Keep the original shipping container, or request a new one from STI.
Appendix A: AmpLink 1900i-F Specifications
35
Table A1. AmpLink 1900i-F Specifications Characteristic Power Requirements Input power voltage (27 VDC nominal) 22 VDC to 30 VDC -42 VDC to -60 VDC Input power interface Screw terminal block Fuses 3A fast-blow (two fuses required) Maximum input power at -10C to 60C ambient 15W maximum temperature Frequencies of Operation Rx: 1850 MHz to 1910 MHz Tx: 1930 MHz to 1990 MHz Dimensions 10 (H) x 5.75 (W) x 22.5 (D) AmpLink 1900i-F Weight 41 lbs Environmental Operating temperature 0C to +50C Operating humidity 0% to 90% (non-condensing) Operating altitude From sea level to 15,000 feet Storage temperature (non-operating) -30C to +70C Storage humidity (non-operating) 10% to 95% RH non-condensing at 40C Storage altitude (non-operating) From sea level to 10,000 feet ESD-sensitive; requires electrostatic discharge The AmpLink unit contains components that are subject to protection damage from ESD. Item
36
Index
37
Index
A
about the AmpLink 1900i-F ................................11 about this manual ...............................................9 alarm connection input terminal strip ........................ 14 alarm relay....................................................... 23 functional check ............................................ 25 states........................................................... 24 ANTENNA connectors ......................................... 15 functional checks alarm relay test ............................................ 25 RF system test, receive path test .................... 26 RF system test, transmit path test................... 27 test generator calibration data ........................ 25 functional description ........................................ 12 alarm........................................................... 13 power .......................................................... 13 RF signal flow ............................................... 12 fuse blows ....................................................... 33 fuses..........................................................14, 35
B
benefits ........................................................... 11 block diagram functional ..................................................... 13 RF jumper cable connection pre- and postAmpLink installation ................................... 29 RF signal flow................................................ 12 BTS connectors ................................................. 15 BTS path failure ................................................ 34
G
general safety caution ........................................................ 10 note ............................................................ 10 warning ....................................................... 10
I
installation procedures connecting alarm wire.................................... 23 connecting power wire ................................... 23 connecting RF jumper cables .......................... 28 connecting safety ground wire ........................ 22 mounting ..................................................... 22 performing functional checks .......................... 25 performing power up ..................................... 24 unpacking AmpLink 1900i-F............................ 21 installation requirements equipment supplied AmpLink 1900i-F ....................................... 19 quick start installation guide ....................... 19 STI CD ..................................................... 19 material requirements ................................... 19 mounting requirements.................................. 18 site requirements .......................................... 18 site survey ................................................... 17 test equipment requirements .......................... 20 tool requirements.......................................... 20
C
cable ladder...................................................... 22 cable ladder kit ................................................. 18 caution symbol ................................................. 10 circuit breaker trips ........................................... 33 connecting RF jumper cables .............................. 28 connecting wires ............................................... 22 alarm ........................................................... 23 power........................................................... 23 safety ground................................................ 22 contacting STI .................................................. 10 customer service............................................... 10
D
dimensions ....................................................... 35
E
Electrostatic Discharge....................................... 10 environmental specifications ............................... 35 equipment configuration .................................... 12 equipment rack shelf ................................... 18, 22 equipment specifications .................................... 35 equipment supplied ........................................... 19
L
LEDs fault mode.................................................... 31 LNA1 ........................................................... 14 LNA2 ........................................................... 14 normal operation........................................... 31 PWR ............................................................ 14 LNA1 / LNA2 LEDs ............................................ 14
F
FAULT LEDs LNA1 and LNA2 ............................................. 14 fault mode........................................................ 31 frequencies, operation ....................................... 35 front view alarm connection terminal strip ....................... 14 fuses............................................................ 14 GND............................................................. 14 LNA1 / LNA2 LEDs ......................................... 14 power connection terminal strip....................... 14 PWR LED ...................................................... 14
M
maintenance checklist ....................................... 31 material requirements ....................................... 19 mounting AmpLink 1900i-F ........................................... 22 requirements ................................................ 18
Index
38
N
normal operation............................................... 31 note symbol ..................................................... 10
site requirements ............................................. 18 site survey....................................................... 17 system configuration ......................................... 12
P
power connecting .................................................... 23 connection input terminal strip ........................ 14 description .................................................... 13 input voltage................................................. 35 maximum ..................................................... 35 powering up ..................................................... 24 PWR LED.......................................................... 14 PWR LED off ..................................................... 33
T
technical support .............................................. 10 test equipment requirements ............................. 20 test generator calibration data ........................... 25 tool requirements, installation ............................ 20 transmit path test ............................................. 27 troubleshooting ................................................ 32 BTS path failure ............................................ 34 circuit breaker trips ....................................... 33 fuse blows .................................................... 33 PWR LED off ................................................. 33 RED LED illuminates on any one of the following LEDs, LNA1 or LNA2 ................................... 34
R
rear view ANTENNA connectors ..................................... 15 BTS connectors ............................................. 15 RED LED illuminates on any one of the following LEDs, LNA1 or LNA2....................................... 34 redundancy ...................................................... 28 Return Material Authorization (RMA) .................... 34 return shipments............................................... 34 RF system test.................................................. 26
U
unpacking AmpLink 1900i-F ............................... 21
V
voltage polarity, 27 VDC and -48 VDC ................. 23
W
warning symbol ................................................ 10 warranty............................................................ 2 weight............................................................. 35 wiring for redundancy ....................................... 28
S
safety ....................................... See general safety

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