Radios

The radios typically used in a licensed Micro-Comm SCADA system are manufactured by Motorola. The current model being used in new RTU’s is the Motorola CM200D.

Under most circumstances, radios are shipped with the power output set at 10 watts, unless otherwise specified, and are preprogrammed to the customer’s system frequency.

In the time of Micro-Comm’s existence, several models of Motorola radios have been used and some can still be found in some systems. These models include the M10, M100, SM50, M1225 and CM200 (prior to the D model).

All models prior to the CM200D feature a manual volume knob that if left in the ON position, the radio will automatically come back on after a power outage. Note that the newer CM200D has a pushbutton power switch, which in turn means the radio will not come back on after the power has been off, unless the button is pushed manually. The ‘fix’ for this is a special radio cable that includes an extra ‘power sense’ wire that will turn the radio back on after power has been off. Note that if you are replacing any older radio with a CM200D, you will need to request a new style cable with the radio to insure it will operate properly.

Operation and troubleshooting

Radios many normally operate warm to the touch. If a radio is ever too hot to touch, it is defective and must be replaced.

If you are dealing with a Loss of Signal situation, remember that it is possible for the radio to be ON, and you can hear data sounds on the speaker, but the radio is not able to transmit data out.

Note that radios are SILENT when transmitting data. You will also see an indicator light on the front of the radio showing the radio is in transmit mode.

A simple method of diagnosing a radio issue is to take a known working radio from another RTU and place it temporarily in the RTU in question.

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