RFS AISG 2.0 System Installation and Setup.

This document contains several guides and documents to allow you to quickly setup and
configure an RFS AISG system. This guide is intended for use when using a Protocol
adapter (PA-USB/485).

Accessing the Optimizer RT Software Site - Provides links and access information to download
the NEM -ALD-A V 3.2.1, and Protocol adapter driver Software
PA-USB/485 Protocol Adapter installation instructions- Installation instruction to download
and install the driver software.
AISG RT Installation Procedure AISG Systems - Quick guide on how to properly install and
configure the ACUs (RET motors).
AISG FAQ- Compiled list of Frequently Asked Questions

Support information:
NEM-ALD operation when using Microsoft Vista or Windows 7- This
step needs to be completed after the software has been downloaded to allow the software to run.
PA-USB/485-2 data sheet

Ver 2.0

12/20/2011

Radio Frequency Systems

www.rfsworld.com

Process to Download RT related software.

The software distribution site is on line, allowing access to software for the support of the OptimizerRT
system. This includes Software, User guides and Manuals, and FAQ's as well as the global AISG
Configurator..
The site link is

http://myrfs.rfsworld.com/OptimizerRT

Note: If you cannot access the site, the most common cause is that your companys Internet firewall is
blocking access. Try and access the site from a connection outside of your corporate firewall, for
example, from your personal home Internet account.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------IMPORTANT NOTE: The NEM-ALD-A and NEM-ALD-S software (zip) files are password protected.
The password is
aisgcontrol << This is One word, Lower Case.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------Products currently available on the site are.
Under the 'Software' Tab

Under the 'AISG Support' tab

NEM-ALD-A 3.2.1 Serial control software for the Protocol Adapter (either the
PA-USB/485-2 or the legacy PA-1). (The ZIP file includes the User Guide)
PA-USB/485 Protocol Adapter drivers (ZIP File). (The ZIP file includes the User Guide)
AISG Remote Tilt antenna installation Guide
AISG System Frequently Asked Questions Guide
AISG Global Configurator
AISG System Guide (general information)
AISG System Quick Start Guide.

Login information for the installed software

The NEM-ALD A software will require the following Login information
COM port. This is the actual COM port number assigned by Windows to the Protocol Adapter during
Its setup / Installation. The entry format is capital letters COM and the COM port number.
Example COM4 The COM port number to use can be found on your computer by going to your start
menu then go to Windows Control Panel / System / Hardware / Device Manager / Ports (COM & LPT)
Username and Password are both the same.

Ver 1.2

admin

Radio Frequency Systems

200 Pondview Drive
Meriden, CT 06450
www.rfsworld.com

12/20/2011

PAUSB4852ProtocolAdapter64bitdriver
installationprocess.V1.0

NOTE: Ensure the PA-USB/485-2 Protocol adapter is NOT plugged into the computer until step # 7

1.Createanew(empty)directoryonyourdesktop.
2.CopythefileCP210x_VCP_Win_XP_S2K3_Vista_7.axeintothisnewdirectory.
3.Openthenewdirectoryandchangetheextensiononthefilenamefrom.axeto.exeasshown

CP210x_VCP_Win_XP_S2K3_Vista_7.exe
4.Runthesoftwarefromthislocation;acceptallsecurityandsystemrequestsuntiltheinstallationiscomplete.
5.Ifrequested,removeanyexistingdrivers
6.Rebootthecomputer
7.PlugthePAUSB/485adapterintoanyunusedUSBslotonthecomputer,(ensuretheprotocoladapterACpoweris
connected).Windows7willcompletetheinstallationofthedriver.Youshouldnoticetheseactivitiesonthebottom
rightcorneroftheNotificationbar.
("FoundNewhardware,installingdevicedriver,yourdevicewassuccessfullyinstallreadytouseCOMxxx.)

NotewhichCOMportisassigned.Thisshouldcompletetheinstallation.

Note: The NEM-ALD-A shortcut on the desktop should be configured to run in Win XP (SP3) compatibility mode and as
administrator (see shortcut setup).

RFS OPTIMIZER RT ANTENNA INSTALLATION PROCEDURE. AISG SYSTEMS

This installation procedure is applicable to RFS base station antennas used in multiple
markets. This document covers two main setup scenarios.
This process is for Version 3.x of the NEM-ALD control software
For antennas ordered with ACUs pre-attached by RFS, the ACUs are pre-configured
and pre-calibrated. Field re-calibration of the Antennas / ACU is Not required nor
recommended. Use steps 1,2,5,6,7,16, & 17 of this procedure.
For Antennas with ACUs supplied separately; use all steps in this procedure.
1.
As soon as all the material is on-site, record every ACUs serial number; this serial
number will be associated with a specific sector location. It is also recommended that each
ACU be labeled. Example: The first ACU in Alpha sector could be labeled Alpha 1.
2.

Going sector by sector, install the antennas, and tighten bracket at the proper azimuth.

3.
If weatherproofing is mandated, it is recommended that the RF jumper cables be
installed and weatherproofed prior to the installation of the ACUs (motors). This will alleviate
interference issues when installing the ACUs
4.
Install ACUs on each antenna. For proper operation, alternate the tightening of both
screws to the same torque. The ACU should be slightly snug, NOT TIGHT. It is believed that
the proper tension can be achieved by turning the screws until you start to feel resistance.
Then back the screw down a quarter turn. The correct torque is 15 in-lbs.
NOTE: If the ACU is on too tight it will prevent the cylinder from turning.
5.
Daisy chain the ACUs on quad antennas with a meter cables. To daisy chain from
one antenna to the next will require site-specific cable lengths.
6.
After all the ACUs are connected; attach the long cable (female connector) to the open
port of the first ACU. The Common term for this cable is the Home Run cable. Coil and
secure enough extra cable near the antennas so that the cable can reach any ACU in the
sector. This is useful if troubleshooting the ACUs is required at a later time. Run the rest of
this cable back to the cabinet and attach the male connector to the controller. Ensure all cable
runs are properly secured.
NOTE: Separate sector Home Run cable may be used when sectors are not located close to
each other.

Rev 1.1

7.
Launch the NEM-ALD software. The software will scan all the devices available and
launch its Overview window.
8.
Non-configured ACU(s) will be highlighted in the software by the use of RED text. (Red
text = Device Not Available). Double click on the device to open the RET main window as
shown here.

Rev 1.1

9.

The main window will indicate the current device status.

Not Configured and Not Calibrated should be active in the Alarm list.
Select the Antenna tab.

Rev 1.1

10.

Select the Antenna Configuration Data button.

Rev 1.1

11.
The Configuration button will launch a list of folders. Select the folder with the
correct antenna, and then press open.

12.

Pick the data file shown then press open.

Rev 1.1

13.
The software will return to the Main window, Press Set this will start the upload to
the ACU.

Rev 1.1

14.
When the upload is completed the NEM-ALD software will rescan the device and
indicate the change in status. (Not configured will be cleared, Not calibrated will remain active.)
Press Calibrate.
RET Moving indicator will activate.

Rev 1.1

15.

When the calibration cycle is complete the RET status will change
Black text = Status OK
Green Light = Status OK

16.
Set down tilt required by moving the slider tab, clicking on the slider bar, or directly
enter the down tilt value numerically. Press Set.
NOTE: If the ACU failed the calibration step (step 15) there could be two issues.
i.
If the ACU was field installed, verify that it is not on too tight. Take the ACU off
and reconnect it to the antenna, observing screw torque requirements.
ii.
The cylinder inside the antenna may be stuck. If you take the proper sized Allenkey you can work the dipstick though the paces to try and loosen the cylinder.
16.

Once you have completed the above steps for one ACU, repeat the process for all
the remaining ACUs, antennas and sectors.

17.
This completes the configuration and calibration of the RET.
END

Rev 1.1

AISG SYSTEM FAQs

This Frequently Asked Questions list will provide answers to the most commonly asked
questions concerning the implementation of RFSs AISG 2.0 system products. It is
divided into functional product blocks.
Click on the Category below to be taken to that section of the guide.

Section #

Rev 1.8

Category

Page #

General Information

Software (NEM-ALD)

TMA (Tower Mounted Amplifier)

Protocol Adapter

Cables

12/20/2011

1/6

General Information:
1. Q. What components make up this system?
A. The system is composed of several blocks, however not all blocks are required
NEM-ALD-A (Serial control)
- Control Software
- Controller

PA-USB/485-2 (Protocol Adapter, AISG style)

PA-1 (Protocol adapter. MODBUS Style)

- RET Motors

ACU-A20-N

- Cables

Multiple styles and configurations

- TMA

ATM1900D-1A20 Twin AWS AISG 2.0 version

ATMAP-1A20 Dual AWS/PCS AISG 2.0 version

- Bias Tee

BITA2S-AL20 (DIN F - DIN F, AISG M)

BITA2S-1AL20 (DIN F - DIN M, AISG M)
BITA2S-2AL20 (DIN M - DIN F, AISG M)
BITA2S-3AL20 (DIN F - DIN M, AISG F)
BITA2S-4AL20 (DIN M - DIN F, AISG M, reverse direction)

2. Q. Can ACUs of different generations or protocols be mixed?

A. No. Although the software can control ACUs running AISG 2.0, AISG 1.1 or
MODBUS, the different products must reside on separate physical cable runs.
3. Q. I have an Antenna from RFS which already had the ACU attached from the factory.
Do I need to calibrate the unit prior to using it?
A. No. The unit will be pre-configured and pre-calibrated. On site re-calibration is not
required and is not recommended.

Rev 1.8

12/20/2011

2/6

Software: NEM-ALD-A
1. Q. What system (PC) requirements do I need to run the AISG 2.0 software?
A. Windows XP with Service pack 2, Windows 7
2. Q. Will the NEM-ALD software work with the Windows Vista operating system?
A. Yes
3. Q. Where can I get the NEM-ALD Software?
A. The software is available from customized RFS Extranet sites such as
(http://myrfs.rfsworld.com/optimizerrt) or from the RFS Applications Engineering
Department.
4. Q. What control protocols can the software support.
A. The NEM-ALD software can support MODBUS, AISG 1.1 and AISG 2.0 control
Protocols.
5. Q. What is the user ID and password for the NEM-ALD Software?
A. The user ID and password are same, admin (Both lowercase)
6. Q. When I try to connect to my CNI or Protocol Adapter using the NEM-ALD-A software I
get the error: Error setting up data manager: can not open serial port. What do I do?
A. Ensure you have the correct serial port number, you are using CAPITAL letters.
when you type COM, and there are no spaces. For example if you are using serial
port 1 enter COM1. com1, COM 1, com 1 will fail.
7. Q. How do I set the downtilt on the NEM-ALD-A software?
A. On the NEM-ALD s/w double click on the respective RET you need the down tilt
changed, then either move the Electrical Tilt (deg) arrow up or down
OR enter the down tilt and hit Set.

Rev 1.8

12/20/2011

3/6

TMA: (ATM1900D-1A20, ATMAP-1A20)

1. Q. What are the different TMA models for?
A. The two models are all two channel TMAs, two amplifiers in one radome.
- The ATM1900D-1A20 has two AWS band (1710-1755) amplifiers.
- The ATMAP-1A20 has one AWS band (1710-1755) amplifier
and one PCS band (1850-1910) amplifier.
2. Q. Can I mount the TMA on its side?
A. Any mounting orientation (except up side down) is acceptable for the TMA.
3. Q. If I am only using a portion of the TMA, what should I do with the unused connectors?
A. All unused RF connectors should be appropriately weather sealed to prevent water
ingress. RFS model 716F-SEAL can be used for this. If unused, the AISG output
connector on the bottom of the unit should also be appropriately sealed. This can be
accomplished using and RFS AISG-CAP (available in kits of 20 p/n AISG-CAP-20M)
4. Q. Do I need to use Smart bias tees on both BTS inputs for the TMAs?
A. No. The Bias voltage on the non-AISG input (see question 5), if required, may be
supplied by any appropriate bias source (10-30 VDC), However the Bias voltage on
the AISG input must be provided through the Smart Bias Tee (or AISG compliant
Node B BST) if AISG functionality is needed.
5. Q. On the ATM series TMAs, do we need to power up both sides to have best possible
sweep? Are the return loss specs on one side affected if the other side is not power
up?
A. NO, Its not necessary to have both sides of the TMA powered up to have best RF
sweep. The RL on one side is not affected by the other side.

Rev 1.8

12/20/2011

4/6

Protocol Adapter
1. Q. What software do I need to use if I am going to use a Protocol Adapter?
A. Both the PA-USB/485-2 and the PA-1 protocol adapters use the NEM-ALD-A
software.
The PA-USB/485-2 protocol adapter also requires the appropriate drivers to be
installed.
2. Q. Can I use the PA-1 Protocol adapter in the AISG system?
A. Yes, the legacy PA-1 can be used to control the AISG RET devices (ACUs) in 3
specific configurations. Special adapter cables will be required.
See the PA-1 Usage with AISG2.0 support document for full details.

Rev 1.8

12/20/2011

5/6

Cables:
1. Q. I see that the AISG control cables are all Male to Female, Does it matter which way I
run the cables?
A. According to the AISG standard, all cables should be run such that no power could
appear on a male connector. In other words, the main home run cable should be run
so that the Male connector of the cable is at the bottom, to connect to the Female
output of the Protocol adapter or CNI, and the Female connector of the cable is at the
top to connect to the Male connector on a ACU (RET Motor).
2. Q. How do I know how long a power / data cable is?
A. The Power / Control cables are labelled CAxxx-7, where the xxx is the cable length in
0.1 meter steps. For example a CA003-7 is 0.3 meters long, a CA050-7 is 5 meters
long.

Rev 1.8

12/20/2011

6/6

NEM-ALD Software installation with Windows Vista or Windows 7

NEM-ALD-S should install and operate on Vista with no additional modifications.

NEM-ALD-A requires a few additional steps in order to be properly installed and operational.
***
Full administrative rights are required to install the software on the Vista operating
system.
After successfully installing the NEM-ALD-A, the following steps are required.
1. Right click the NEM-ALD-A shortcut, then properties
2. Click the Compatibility tab at the top. Make sure the compatibility mode is set to
(Windows XP(Service Pack 2)), if it is set properly go to step 5
3. If the compatibility mode is not set correctly, check the Run this program in
compatibility mode for: box
4. From the Drop Down menu select the Windows XP(Service Pack 2) option
5. Check the privilege level "run this program as an administrator"

Radio Frequency Systems

200 Pondview Drive
Meriden, CT 06450
www.rfsworld.com

When one cannot see the ports under Device Manager in Windows 7

1) Check to see if the device is hidden. For this, click show hidden devices under View, then expand
all the nodes under device manager. Now try plugging your protocol adaptor to the computer and see
if it works.
2) Make sure that in the BIOS the ports are enabled and set to 'auto'.
3) If that does not work, try installing the drivers for your device manually.

If the Port is dedicated to another device and there are no other open ports available you
will have to re-allocate a port to the Protocol adaptor.

Product Data Sheet

PA-USB/485

Optimizer RT Protocol Adapter

Product Description
The protocol adapter is an integral part of the
Optimizer RT remote antenna control system.
The device links the PC to the AISG antenna
system and is used in coordination with RFSs
NEM-ALD-A software to control antenna remote
tilt motors.

Features/Benefits
Compliant with AISG 1.1 and 2.0 standards
Control the entire RFS RET family ACU-A11 and ACU-Axx-N

TM

Provide the control signal and DC power to the connected RET

Antenna Interface Standards Group

External power supply not necessary plugs directly into an AC socket

using a standard power cord
Simple connection to any USB port of the PC driver provided

All information contained in the present datasheet is subject to confirmation at time of ordering.

Technical Specifications
Electrical Specifications
Power supply
Output voltage
Baud rate
Connector to RET (RS 485)
Compliance to standards

Type switch mode (input voltage range from 88 to 264 V AC)

24V Maximum Output current: 1 amp minimum
9600, 38400 or 115200 bauds
Female 8 pins circular connector conforming to IEC60130-9
1. Compliant with AISG 1.1 and AISG 2.0
2. Compliant to Directive 2002/95/EC, for the Restriction on the use of
Hazardous Substances (ROHS) in electrical and electronic equipment.
3. EMC:
Emission: Conducted emission (150 kHz-30 MHz), Radiated emission
(EN55022, 30 MHz-1 GHz Class B) and FCC part 15
Immunity: Electrostatic discharges (EN 61000-4-2); RF electromagnetic field
(EN 61000-4-3); fast transient common mode DC port (EN 61000-4-4); surge
performed on the power supply (EN 61000-4-5); radio frequency (EN 61000-4-6);
voltage dips and interruptions on power supply (EN 61000-4-11)

Mechanical Specifications
Dimensions, mm (in)
Weight, kg (lb)
Lifetime

115 x 60 x 30 (4.52 x 2.36 x 1.18)

0.284 (0.628)
More than 10000 operations (RET full range tilt setting)

Ordering Information
PA-USB/485
CA015-1
CA015-2
CA015-3
PA-USB/485-1
PA-USB/485-2
PA-USB/485-3

Protocol Adapter, USB connection, AISG compatible

AC power cord for protocol adapter Europe and Asia
AC power cord for protocol adapter North America
AC power cord for protocol adapter Australia and New Zealand
PA with CA015-1 cord Europe and Asia
PA with CA015-2 cord North America
PA with CA015-3 cord Australia and New Zealand

RFS The Clear Choice

Please visit us on the internet at http://www.rfsworld.com

PA-USB/485

Rev: C

Print Date: 7.11.2007

Radio Frequency Systems