Installation and Operation Manual

Transcription

1 INTEROPERABILITY NOW Installation and Operation Manual ACU-5000 Twelve Channel Interoperability Gateway JPS Interoperability Solutions 5800 Departure Drive Raleigh, NC / JPS P/N Revision 2.1 November 2017

2 FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION (FCC) COMPLIANCE NOTICE: RADIO FREQUENCY INTERFERENCE NOTICE This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class A digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference when the equipment is operated in a commercial environment. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instruction manual, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. Operation of this equipment in a residential area is likely to cause harmful interference in which case users will be required to correct the interference at their own expense. CAUTION Changes or modifications to this equipment not expressly approved by JPS Interoperability Solutions could void the user s authority to operate this equipment. NOTICE JPS Interoperability Solutions reserves the right to make changes to the equipment and specifications without prior notice. PROPRIETARY STATEMENT The information contained in this manual is the property of JPS Interoperability Solutions and is intended for the purchaser s use only. It may not be reproduced without the expressed written consent of JPS Interoperability Solutions, Inc JPS Interoperability Solutions, Inc. JPS Interoperability Solutions Phone: (919) Fax: (919) sales@jpsinterop.com / support@jpsinterop.com 5800 Departure Drive Raleigh, NC Interoperability Now

3 Table Of Contents ACU-5000 Operations Manual 1 ACU-5000 OVERVIEW SCOPE TWELVE CHANNEL INTEROPERABILITY CAPABILITY (PLUS HANDSET) FOUR TO 12 CHANNELS ACTIVATED INTERFACE CONNECTORS INTERCONNECT LIMITATIONS LAN PORTS HANDSET LOCAL SPEAKER AND SPEAKER CONNECTOR HEADPHONES AND MICROPHONE CONNECTORS CONFIGURATION METHODOLOGY CONTROL METHODOLOGY EXPANSION CAPABILITY CONNECTION TO OTHER RADIO GATEWAYS SIP INSTRUCTIONS UPDATES TO OPERATIONS MANUAL SPECIFICATIONS EQUIPMENT AND ACCESSORIES SUPPLIED OPTIONAL EQUIPMENT: NOT SUPPLIED INSTALLATION GENERAL UNPACKING AND INSPECTION RESHIPMENT OF EQUIPMENT INSTALLATION CONSIDERATIONS POWER SOURCE MECHANICAL PACKAGE CONNECTORS, CONTROLS, AND INDICATORS SAFETY PRECAUTIONS AND PROCEDURES MAINTENANCE INTERFACE CAPABILITIES SCOPE RADIO INTERFACE VOIP (SIP) INTERFACE ROIP INTERFACE PSTN INTERFACE WEB-BASED CONFIGURATION LOG IN SYSTEM CONFIGURATION Interoperability Now 3

4 4.2.1 NETWORK CONFIGURATION EXPANDED SYSTEM CONFIGURATION USER MANAGEMENT PIN MANAGEMENT SOFTWARE UPDATE LICENSE UPDATE RESTORE DEFAULTS SYSTEM SHUTDOWN CHANNEL CONFIGURATION CHANNEL CONFIGURATION OVERVIEW CHANNEL TYPES AND LIMITATIONS CHANNEL CONFIGURATION BASIC SETTINGS CHANNEL CONFIGURATION CURRENT STATUS CHANNEL CONFIGURATION - HANDSET CHANNEL CONFIGURATION - RADIO CHANNEL CONFIGURATION - PSTN CHANNEL CONFIGURATION - SIP CHANNEL CONFIGURATION - ROIP OBSERVE MODE SYSTEM PREFERENCES PREFERENCES - OVERVIEW CONTROL PREFERENCES NET CONTROL - STANDARD BEHAVIOR PREFERENCES NET CONTROL - MULTI-CHANNEL CLICK BEHAVIORS PREFERENCES CHANGE PASSWORD PREFERENCES SYSTEM MEMORY SETTINGS PREFERENCES SYSTEM DTMF SETTINGS PREFERENCES SPEED DIALS PREFERENCES MANAGE CHANNEL PROFILES SYSTEM HELP HELP TYPES CONTROL CAPABILITIES WEB BASED CONTROL & CONFIGURATION DTMF CONNECTION CONTROL RESTORE SYSTEM DEFAULTS IP ADDRESS AND PASSWORD RESET OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS Interoperability Now

5 9.1 WEB-BASED OPERATION- NET MANAGEMENT INITIAL NET CONTROL PAGE HOW TO CONNECT AND DISCONNECT CHANNELS DIAL OUT OPERATION DIAL IN OPERATION (ANSWER INCOMING CALL) MONITOR MODE OPERATION (CROSS NET LINK) PRIORITY CONNECTIONS REMOVE BUTTON - SPECIAL PROPERTIES NET GROUP OPERATION ADDITIONAL OPERATIONS EXPANDED SYSTEM OPERATION LIVE STATUS INFORMATION STATUS INDICATORS ON CHANNEL ICONS MODIFYING CONNECTION OPERATIONS THROUGH PREFERENCES OPERATION VIA REMOTE DTMF REMOTE DTMF MAKE A CONNECTION REMOTE DTMF BREAK A CONNECTION REMOTE DTMF ATTENTION COMMAND REMOTE DTMF MONITOR FUNCTION RECENT UPGRADES TO THE ACU NEW/UPDATED FEATURES Interoperability Now 5

6 Glossary ACU-1000 ACU-2000 ARA-1 BSI COR COS COTS Cross- Connection DTMF DSP EIA Hangtime iden Key LED LMR Mute NIST NXU-2A PBX PCB PSTN PTT Radio Net RJ-11 RJ-12 RJ-45 RoIP TM RX JPS Interoperability devices with plug-in modules to interface various types of communications devices: Radio, PSTN, VoIP, RoIP. The ACU-5000 interfaces will have similar functionality. JPS device that provides a SIP interface to an individual radio or other four-wire device. Bridging Systems Interface A specification jointly developed by government and industry to provide a standard interface for radio interoperability systems. The BSI is based on SIP and RTP and allows bridging of radio nets between disparate interoperability systems. Carrier Operated Relay - A receiver signal that gives a positive indication a carrier or signal is being received and the receiver is unsquelched. Same as COS. Carrier Operated Squelch - See COR. Commercial Off-The-Shelf - A type of product that is readily available to the general public. Does not conform to MIL-Specs. A link made between two communications systems interfaced to a single ACU-5000 chassis, or between systems interfaced over a network to two or more ACU-5000 systems. Dual Tone Multi Frequency - The standard touch-tone telephone dialing method sends DTMF audio characters over a PSTN line for control purposes. Can also be used with FM radio. Digital Signal Processing (or Processor). Electronic Industries Association. A system with hangtime will remain in the transmit mode for the duration of the set hangtime beyond the time indicated by any keying inputs. The hangtime prevents transmitter unkey during brief pauses in the transmission. Integrated Digital Enhanced Network- Thus mobile telecommunication technology provides both two-way radio connectivity and standard cellular telephone connectivity on the same network. To key a transmitter means to cause it to transmit. Light Emitting Diode. Land Mobile Radio. To quiet or inhibit audio. National Institute of Standards and Technology - A United States government agency designed to advance measurement science, standards, and technology. Network Extension Unit. A JPS device that interfaces a radio or other 4-wire device to other communications devices over an IP network. An NXU-2A uses RoIP. Private Branch Exchange. A telephone system that owned an operated by a private company (such as a manufacturing business) rather than by a telephone company such as ATT. Printed Circuit Board. Public Switched Telephone Network - The world's public circuit-switched telephone network which provides connectivity to fixed-line and mobile telephones. Push-to-Talk. An active PTT signal causes a transmitter to key. A group of radio interfaces that are connected together. When any member of the net transmits audio, the audio is retransmitted to be heard by all other members. Registered Jack 11 - A physical interface for connecting wires, often used to terminate telephone cables. It is a 6-position 4-contact (6P4C) connector. Although it can be used for other purposes, this is commonly referred to as a standard phone jack or connector. Registered Jack 12 - A physical interface for connecting wires; 6-position 6-contact (6P6C) connector similar in shape to standard RJ-11 connectors. RJ-12 connectors will connect 6 wires. Registered Jack 45 - A physical interface for connecting wires, often used to terminate Ethernet cables. It is an 8-position 8-contact (8P8C) connector. Although it can be used for other purposes, this is commonly referred to as a standard Ethernet jack or connector. Radio over Internet Protocol. JPS proprietary protocol which sends voice plus radio control signals over an IP network. Receiver or Receiving. 6 Interoperability Now

7 SIP Soft Phone Squelch TX VMR VoIP VOX Glossary Session Initiation Protocol A flexible, standards-based, open protocol that initiates and manages communications between devices over an IP network. A computer that s used as a VoIP phone. A means of detecting audio and causing some action when it is present, such as keying a transmitter or unmuting an audio path. Transmit or Transmitter. Voice Modulation Recognition. An algorithm which causes a transmitter to key or causes some other action when voice is present. This squelch type is activated by only by human voice, and not by tones, noise or other non-speech audio. Particularly useful for noisy signals such as HF. Voice Over Internet Protocol - Protocol for delivering voice communications over IP networks. Most network-phone providers (such as Vonage), use VoIP. Voice Operated Xmit (Transmit). A circuit or algorithm which causes a transmitter to key or causes some other action when sound is present. This squelch type is activated by any audio signal, and is not restricted to voice only. Interoperability Now 7

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9 1.1 Scope 1 ACU-5000 Overview This document provides a description, specifications and configuration and operating instructions for the ACU-5000 twelve-channel interoperability server. The main purpose of this unit is to provide interoperability among a wide variety of disparate communications devices, both analog and IP-based. The ACU-5000 has most of the features of the JPS ACU-2000, plus many important new capabilities. An overview of the unit s main characteristics is provided in this section. 1.2 Twelve Channel Interoperability Capability (plus Handset) The ACU-5000 provides twelve communications channels plus one local handset channel. These channels can be patched together to create interoperability nets (like conference calls). This is similar to the ACU-1000 or ACU-2000, where there is an ability of any channel to connect to any (or all) of the other modules in the ACU Chassis. The ACU-5000 is more capable and flexible - rather than relying on plug-in modules, the channels are themselves configurable to allow a wide range of devices to be interfaced. The twelve channels can be configured to interface with: o Radios (also applies other four-wire devices, as well as iden phones and some types of cellular phones) o VoIP Phones and Soft Phones using standard SIP protocol (such as is used by Vonage) o PSTN lines for connection to a standard telephone network o RoIP devices (for this application, the main purpose is to interface with the NXU-2A, but all other RoIP capabilities are available) There is also a single (non-configurable) handset channel. A handset with PTT switch is provided. It assists quick and effective initial system setup, and allows a local operator to use the system. See Section 1.4. An internal speaker, external speaker jack, and volume/mute control are also provided. The rack-mount version also includes microphone and headphone jacks. See Section 3 for explanations of these interfaces, and Section 5 for configuration information Four to 12 Channels Activated The ACU-5000 may be purchased with a minimum of four channels activated and a maximum of twelve. If additional channels are desired, they may be purchased from JPS Interoperability Solutions and activated by a key code. See Section The activated channels are always the lowest numbered channels that is, if six channels are activated, they will be channels one through six. The handset channel is always activated, and not included in the channel count. This manual is written for a 12 channel unit. All operational criteria and instructions are identical for lower numbers of activated channels. Interoperability Now 1-1

10 1.2.2 Interface Connectors The unit has 12 RJ-45 ports that are used to connect radios, four-wire devices, and some types of iden/cellular phones. [These are four-wire devices that currently use DSP Modules in an ACU system.] Adapter cables are available that allow use of the large library of interface cables that were developed for the ACU product line. The adapters are RJ-45 on one end and D-15 on the other. See additional interface cable information on Table 1-4. o VoIP and RoIP connections are made via one of four Ethernet RJ-45 LAN Ports. o PSTN connections are made via 3 RJ-11 ports. o The handset (supplied, same as used with ACU-2000) cord plugs into an RJ-12 jack. o The system also includes a standard USB port (for future features) and a 3.5 mm jack to drive an external speaker Interconnect Limitations There can be no more than 12 communications channels (plus the handset channel if desired) in use at any time, and these channels can be configured as any combination of radio ports, VoIP ports, RoIP ports, or PSTN ports, with the only limitation being that the maximum number of PSTN ports is 3. Configuration is done by web browser; no local/manual intervention is needed (that is, it s not necessary to be at the same location as the ACU-5000 to configure a channel). Examples of possible configurations include any or all of the following (and many more): o The 12 channels can be configured as 12 Radio ports or 12 VoIP ports o Alternatively, there can be 6 of Radio ports and 6 VoIP ports o The system can be set up as 3 Radio ports, 3 VoIP ports, 3 RoIP ports and 3 PSTN ports Again, the only limitation on the 12 available channels is that no more than 3 can be designated as PSTN ports. This limitation is set by the three RJ-11 jacks and the hardware required to interface to phone lines. Note: See Section 0 for an explanation of the use of PSTN and/or VoIP ports for connection of VoIP phones. 1.3 LAN Ports The unit has multiple RJ-45 Ethernet connectors to interface the unit to IP networks; there are 4 on the table-top version and 2 on the rack-mount version. All Ethernet communications and control/status traffic use one of these ports. Besides the basic network connection for remote control and configuration via the unit s web based GUI, these ports can be used for: Direct connection of local computer by CAT5 cable (standard or cross-over cable). Two ACU-5000 units connected together to create a 24 channel system (see Section 1.9) Connection to another network (for example, the Internet) for VoIP, RoIP, or remotecontrol traffic. 1-2 Interoperability Now

11 1.4 Handset ACU-5000 Operations Manual A handset with PTT switch is provided with the unit, which can be plugged into the single front panel RJ-12 connector. This is the same handset that is provided with other ACU devices. The handset interface has two main purposes: o Provide a simple means to properly set up & optimize an ACU-5000 interoperability system. The level reference provided by the handset port assists this operation. o Allow a local operator to access the system and communicate with other devices interfaced to the ACU o The handset volume is controlled via push buttons on the front panel, or via the webbased control interface. (Note that volume controls for the handset affect the speaker volume as well.) 1.5 Local Speaker and Speaker Connector A local, internal speaker with volume/mute control provides another option (beyond the handset) for local monitor of ongoing communications. A 3.5 mm stereo speaker jack allows an external speaker to be connected; doing so will disable the internal speaker. [Note tip and sleeve used; ring connection is open.] 1.6 Headphones and Microphone Connectors These connectors are available on the rack mount version only; there isn t enough room for them on the tabletop version. Marked as Phones and Mic on the front panel, both are the same 3.5 mm type as can be found on a typical PC. The headphone connector receives the same audio stream as the speaker output, although at a lower level. As with the handset and speaker, the level is controlled by the handset TX level setting either via the front panel buttons or through the GUI. The handset, speaker, and headphones are all enabled simultaneously (though whenever an external speaker is plugged in the internal speaker is disabled). The mic input is a future function and is not currently enabled. 1.7 Configuration Methodology The unit s web-based graphical user interface includes full configuration capability. Configuration has two basic steps: o For each of the 12 communications channels, select the type of interface Radio (fourwire), VoIP, RoIP, or PSTN (note previously mentioned limitation - only 3 PSTN physical interfaces are available). o For each channel, adjust and optimize the various configuration items such as audio levels, squelch type, etc. Interoperability Now 1-3

12 1.8 Control Methodology The unit may be controlled (create and dissolve cross-connections between the devices interfaced to the unit) in two ways: o Via a web-based graphical user interface that allows users to create interoperability nets by simple mouse-click procedures. o Via user-initiated DTMF sequences. Section 6 provides details about both control methodologies. 1.9 Expansion Capability The communications capabilities of the system can be expanded by connecting two units together over an Ethernet connection. One unit is then configured as the Master and a system operator can view, configure, and operate the dual system through the Master unit. The expanded system will allow interoperability nets with up to 24 channels (plus one handset connected to the Master Unit). Note: The two units connected to create a 24 channel expanded system must be connected either directly by CAT-5 cable or be on a common LAN (no router intervening) Connection to Other Radio Gateways Connection to other ACU-5000s (beyond the two unit expanded system explained above) or inter-operation with any other radio gateway devices can be accomplished via the NIST standard BSI interface protocol (Bridging Systems Interface). Links can be made to any other BSI compliant gateways (for example an ACU-2000 or another ACU-5000). The ACU-5000 currently supports inclusion in an ACU-1000/ACU-2000 based WAIS (Wide Area Interoperability System), however there are no provisions to dispatch to radios interfaced to the ACU-5000 (a feature of WAIS Enhanced and WAIS Enterprise). The Bridging Systems Interface is a specification jointly developed by government and industry that defines an industry-standard interface for communications between radio interoperability systems. The BSI is based on SIP and RTP and allows the radio nets of disparate interoperability systems to be bridged together SIP Instructions This manual does not attempt to familiarize the reader with SIP fundamentals. SIP is an open protocol and there are many references that explain how to best make use of it Updates to Operations Manual Please review Section 10 for new features and other changes and updates. 1-4 Interoperability Now

13 1.13 Specifications Table 1-1 ACU-5000 Specifications Radio RX Audio Input Input Impedance Balanced 2.2k ohms, transformer coupled Input Level Incoming signals adjustable in approx 4 db steps from 26 to +12 dbm to set 0 dbm nominal input; +15 dbm clipping Radio TX Audio Output Output Impedance Output Level Distortion Radio COR Input Input Impedance Polarity Threshold Protection Radio PTT Output Output Type Maximum Sink Current Max Open Circuit Voltage PSTN Interface Phone line Input/Output Levels Input/Output Impedance to Phone Line Network Interface Interface Type Protocols Unbalanced 600 ohms, AC Coupled Adjustable from 26 to +12 dbm in approx 4 db steps, 0 dbm nominal factory default; +9 dbm clipping into a 600 ohm load 0.5% or less (excepting Vocoder) 47k ohm pull-up to +5V / 22k ohm pull down to ground for active high/low COR: Selectable active low or active high; AUX Inputs: Active low Vin high(min)=2.3 VDC; Vin low(max)=1.0 VDC Up to VDC Open drain 100 ma +60 VDC -24 to 0 dbm Programmable in 3 db steps. 600 Nominal. 10/100BASE-T Ethernet, 10 or 100 Mbps; RJ-45 Connector SIP, SDP, RTP, STUN, HTTP Audio Vocoder Selectable, PCMU/G711u, PCMA/G711a, GSM, G.726 (selectable 16 to 40 kbps data rate), Signed 16-bit linear General/Environmental Input Power (12 VDC Nom) Power Connector Size and Weight Rack Mount Size and Weight Tabletop Temperature +11 to +15 VDC at 2A max. 12VDC power supply provided ( VAC input) Coaxial Jack, 2.5 mm ID, 5 to 5.5 mm OD; Center Pin Positive 1.75 H x 19 W x 9.7 D (4.5 x 48.3 x 24.6 cm); 5.0 lbs (2.3 kg) 1.8 H x 13 W x 9.3 D (4.6 x 33.0 x 23.6 cm); 3.5 lbs. (1.6 kg) Operating: 0 to +40 degrees C; Storage: -40 to +80 degrees C Interoperability Now 1-5

14 1.14 Equipment and Accessories Supplied Table 1-2 Equipment and Accessories Supplied - Tabletop Version ACU-5000 Shipping Level - P/N (4 channel) to (12 channel) Quantity Item JPS P/N 1 ACU-5000 Final Assembly (main box only tabletop 4 channels) ACU-5000 Final Assembly (main box only tabletop 5 channels) ACU-5000 Final Assembly (main box only tabletop 6 channels) Continue numbering up to 12 channels: ACU-5000 Final Assembly (main box only tabletop 12 channels) The above refers to initial factory order. To increase channels in the field after initial order - purchase the following; qty determines number of additional channels: 1 ACU-5000, additional channel Accessory Kit Kit consists of: Qty Part Number Description VDC Power Supply [100 to 240 VAC, 50/60 Hz] Power Cable Handset with PTT Switch and coiled cord Note: When ordering a unit from the factory, use the xx number. This calls for the ACU-5000 tabletop unit, plus the accessory kit which has the power supply, handset, and the cables associated with each. To order that additional channels be added to an already purchased unit, use the part number. Order as many of this part number as needed; for example, to raise an eight channel version to ten channels, order quantity 2 of See Section for further information. 1-6 Interoperability Now

15 Table 1-3 Equipment and Accessories Supplied Rack Mount Version ACU-5000 Shipping Level - P/N (4 channel) to (12 channel) Quantity Item JPS P/N 1 ACU-5000 Final Assembly (main box only rack mount 4 channels) ACU-5000 Final Assembly (main box only rack mount 5 channels) ACU-5000 Final Assembly (main box only rack mount 6 channels) Continue numbering up to 12 channels: ACU-5000 Final Assembly (main box only rack mount 12 channels) The above refers to initial factory order. To increase channels in the field after initial order - purchase the following; qty determines number of additional channels: 1 ACU-5000, additional channel Accessory Kit Kit consists of: Qty Part Number Description VDC Power Supply [100 to 240 VAC, 50/60 Hz] Power Cable Handset with PTT Switch and coiled cord Note: When ordering a unit from the factory, use the xx number. This calls for the ACU-5000 rack mount unit, plus the accessory kit which has the power supply, handset, and the cables associated with each. To order that additional channels be added to an already purchased unit, use the part number. Order as many of this part number as needed; for example, to raise an eight channel version to ten channels, order quantity 2 of See Section for further information. Interoperability Now 1-7

16 1.15 Optional Equipment: Not Supplied Table 1-4 Optional Equipment - Not Supplied Description JPS P/N RJ-45 to D15 Adapter Cable; shielded CAT5 cable with Adapter-for use with ACU standard radio interface cables (1 foot long) ACU Generic Radio Interface Cable; unterminated at radio end, D15 at other; specify length: 15, 30, or 50 feet /30/50 Interface cables for a very wide range of commercial radios are available for purchase. Consult the JPS website or contact JPS Customer Service. sales@jpsinterop.com / support@jpsinterop.com End of Section Interoperability Now

17 2.1 General 2 Installation This section provides the instructions for unpacking, inspection, and installation. Configuration and operation are explained in subsequent sections. 1.1 Unpacking and Inspection After unpacking the unit, retain the carton and packing materials until the contents have been inspected and checked against the packing list. If there is a shortage or any evidence of damage, do not attempt to use the equipment. Contact the carrier and file a shipment damage claim. A full report of the damage should also be reported to the JPS Customer Service Department. The following information should be included in the report: Order Number Equipment Model and Serial Numbers Shipping Agency Date(s) of Shipment The JPS Customer Service Department can be reached by phone at (919) , by fax at (919) Upon receipt of this information, JPS will arrange for repair or replacement of the equipment. 1.2 Reshipment of Equipment If it is necessary to return the equipment to the manufacturer, a Returned Material Authorization (RMA) number must first be obtained from JPS. This number must be noted on the outside of the packing carton and on all accompanying documents. When packing the unit for reshipment, it is best to use the original packaging for the unit; if this is not possible, make sure that adequate packing material is used to prevent excessive shocks during transport and handling. Shipment should be made prepaid consigned to: JPS Interoperability Solutions Customer Service Department 5800 Departure Drive Raleigh, North Carolina USA Plainly, mark with indelible ink all mailing documents as follows: U.S. GOODS RETURNED FOR REPAIR Mark all sides of the package: FRAGILE - ELECTRONIC EQUIPMENT Inspect the package prior to shipment for proper marking and secure wrapping. Interoperability Now 2-1

18 2.2 Installation Considerations The ACU-5000 must be installed in a location that provides both protection from the weather and assurance of ambient temperatures between 0 and +40 degrees C. The unit is neither splash proof nor corrosion resistant and must be protected from exposure to salt spray. When the unit is mounted in a cabinet with other heat-generating equipment, the use of a rack blower is suggested to keep the cabinet interior temperature rise to a minimum. Care should be taken to allow free airflow and not obstruct the intake to the cooling fans and the unit s air exhaust holes. Note: When the ACU-5000 is installed in a high RF environment such as repeater site, it is recommended that cable assemblies to each channel be individually shielded. Interface cables purchased from JPS are shielded. 2.3 Power Source The unit is powered by an external supply similar to those typically used to power a standard laptop computer. The power supply included with the unit operates from input voltages and frequencies of 100 to 240 VAC, Hz. Other standard laptop-type supplies can be substituted, but must provide a nominal +12 VDC, and be capable of at least 40 watt output. 2.4 Mechanical Package The tabletop version of the unit is housed in a small portable package, rectangular in shape, 13 wide, 9.25 deep, and 1.8 high. The rack mount version of the unit is housed in a black aluminum 1U high enclosure, 19 wide, 9.7 deep, and 1.75 high. 2-2 Interoperability Now

19 2-1 ACU-5000 Tabletop Version Front View 2-2 ACU-5000 Tabletop Version Rear View Interoperability Now 2-3

20 2-3 ACU-5000 Rack Mount Version 3/4 View 2-4 ACU-5000 Rack Mount Version Front View 2-5 ACU-5000 Rack Mount Version Rear View 2-4 Interoperability Now

21 2.5 Connectors, Controls, and Indicators ACU-5000 Operations Manual On the ACU-5000 front panel are the power on/off switch, a handset port, four indicator LEDs (Signal/COR/PTT/Status), a USB connector, a 3.5 mm external speaker connector and volume & mute controls. Also (on the rack mount version only) are 3.5 mm microphone and headphone jacks. The power switch is an illuminated rocker switch for quick visibility of power status. The tabletop version has four LAN ports on the front and none on the rear panel while the rack mount version has one in the front and one on the rear. The LAN ports are all RJ-45 connectors and any or all may be used interchangeably, as with any Ethernet switch. Power, radio, and PSTN connectors are all on the rear panel, and a small access hole through which the unit s reset switch can be activated. The PSTN ports use standard RJ-11 jacks (labeled PSTN 1 through 3), and the radio (four-wire) connectors are standard RJ-45 jacks. The LEDs on the RJ-45 connectors are illuminated to indicate active COR (amber) or PTT (green). 2.6 Safety Precautions and Procedures The ACU-5000 is operated by a +12 VDC power supply and therefore any high level power supply voltage exists only on the AC input side of the power supply. Standard precautions relative to 115 or 230 (nominal) AC wiring applies. Caution should also be taken with the PSTN input lines, as a high DC voltage ring voltage may be applied by the telephone system. The same cautions apply as when dealing with any telephone system equipment. Note: The ACU-5000 contains no user-serviceable components and there is no reason to remove the unit s top cover. Return the ACU-5000 to the factory for servicing 2.7 Maintenance The ACU-5000 contains no user-serviceable internal components, and no maintenance is required other than to ensure that the fans are clean and all ventilation holes remain unobstructed. Interoperability Now 2-5

22 End of Section Interoperability Now

23 3.1 Scope 3 Interface Capabilities ACU-5000 Operations Manual This section provides a basic explanation of the various interfaces available with the ACU-5000 s twelve external communications channels: Radio (4-wire), VoIP, RoIP, and PSTN (2-wire). The system also has a handset interface to assist setup and provide a local communications capability. 3.2 Radio Interface The physical interfaces for the radio ports (and other four-wire devices) are twelve RJ-45 connectors. Radios are connected to the ACU-5000 via a cable that is likely to include interfacing circuitry (such as is used with JPS radio cables). Adapter cables (RJ-45 to D15) allow the use of the very large library of JPS radio cables already in existence, including standard Military 5 and 6 pin microphone connectors. These cables allow connection to hundreds of commonly-deployed radios. See Table 1-4. Other cables can be designed and built on request. The JPS Customer Service Department can be reached by phone at (919) , or by FAX at (919) A representative will explain what is required. ACU-5000 Radio D15 to Radio Interface Cable Shielded CAT-5 Adapter RJ-45 to D15 Interface Network Shielded Radio GND RJ45 RECEPTACLE VIEWED FROM FRONT TXA TXB GND COR PTT GND RXA RXB PTT GND COR TXB TXA GND 7 RXB 15 RXA 8 Figure 3-1 RJ-45 Radio Ports Interoperability Now 3-1

24 AUDIO MIX ACU-5000 Operations Manual Note that the RJ-45 connector s lower number of connectors as compared to the D15 standard JPS interface cable disallows special functions (such as using radio RS-232 communication for radio channel changing) that are available with the ACU-1000 or ACU VoIP (SIP) Interface All VoIP connections are made through one of the unit s four Ethernet RJ-45 LAN connectors. The standard SIP protocol is used, allowing the use of readily available VoIP phones. VoIP Phone ATA PSTN IP Network LAN ATA Internal ATA ACU-5000 VoIP Phone Figure 3-2 VoIP via External or Internal ATA There are two VoIP connections depicted in the diagram above. One connection is via an Analog Telephone Adapter to a PSTN port on the ACU Another connection is via SIP through an ACU-5000 VoIP channel. Both connections ultimately result in digital audio signals that are mixed internally in the ACU In the non-pstn VoIP call, the internal ATA provides the same function as the external ATA-to-PSTN interface does. Additional VoIP phone users can be included, and if all ACU-5000 channels are configured for VoIP, up to 12 VoIP phones can engage in a conference call (or two simultaneous 6-party calls, etc.). 3-2 Interoperability Now

25 AUDIO MIX ACU-5000 Operations Manual The figure below shows four of the ACU-5000 s channels engaged in a conference call. Note that this system diagram could also be depicting a pair of two party connections. Note also that the laptop (shown in the figure as operating as a soft phone) could also be browsing to the IP address of the ACU-5000, so if the computer s operator has the proper permissions, this operator could be monitoring status, controlling cross-connections, or configuring the ACU VoIP Phone Radio Radio IP Network LAN ATA ATA ATA ACU-5000 VoIP Phone Soft Phone Figure 3-3 Conference Call Interoperability Now 3-3

26 3.4 RoIP Interface All RoIP connections are made through one of the ACU-5000 s four Ethernet RJ-45 LAN connectors. The ACU-5000 routes communications packets to the proper destinations. RoIP (Radio over IP) is a JPS proprietary protocol that s a version of the standard VoIP protocol, but optimized for best operation when communicating with radios over an IP network. When the RoIP interface configuration is selected, an ACU-5000 channel can communicate with JPS ACU and NXU devices. The main use is to allow the ACU-5000 to interface a distant radio via an IP network (see Figure 3-4) below. ACU-5000 RoIP LAN RJ-45 IP Network NXU-2A RADIO 3.5 PSTN Interface Figure 3-4 NXU-2A as Cable Extender The ACU-5000 has three RJ-11 connectors that can be used to create two-wire PSTN interfaces to telephone or satellite phone systems. Typically, a standard telephone cord will be used to connect an ACU-5000 RJ-11 PSTN port to a standard telephone wall RJ-11 phone jack. A telephone user attempting to access the system would use a telephone anywhere and call the number associated with that phone jack; this call will be picked up by the ACU-5000 s PSTN port. Functionality will be similar to that of the ACU-1000 PSTN module. Alternatively, VoIP phones users can connect to the system via the PSTN interfaces. For this to be possible, an ATA (Analog Telephone Adapter) must be connected between the PSTN RJ-11 port and an IP network. See Section 0. ACU-5000 PSTN RJ-11 TX & RX Audio Telephone System TX & RX Audio 3-5 PSTN Interface Telephone or other 2W device End of Section Interoperability Now

27 4 Web-Based Configuration The unit is configured via its web-based Graphical User Interface (GUI). The GUI is carefully designed to provide a range of easily accessible context-sensitive help information. Note: Due to ongoing upgrades and enhancements to the ACU-5000, the unit s web pages may not be identical to those shown in this manual. Check Section 10 for upgrade information. The ACU-5000 is standards-compliant and supports standards-compliant web browsers, including the recent and latest versions of Internet Explorer, Firefox, Chrome, Safari, and Opera. 4.1 Log In Upon browsing to the unit s IP address, the login screen will appear. Default IP address is , with a default subnet mask of Default name and password are both su for superuser with superuser permission set. Further explanation, including instructions for changing these defaults, is provided in the following sections. Log-In remains valid for six hours following the last change in operation. 4.2 System Configuration Interoperability Now 4-1

28 The System tab provides the capability to view or change a variety of system configuration settings as shown in the screen shot below. This overview can be reached by clicking on the System tab; the various configuration settings pages can be reached by selection from the dropdown menu or by clicking on the appropriate hypertext in the overview screen Network Configuration This page is used to set the ACU-5000 s IP address and other network settings. The page includes full instructions, and the default IP address can be seen in the screen shot below. Note: Changes do not take place until Save Configuration is clicked. Be sure to record the new IP address! If you forget the new IP address, there are two ways to regain control of the system. For security reasons, you must be local to the ACU-5000 to perform either operation. See Section Interoperability Now

29 4.2.2 Expanded System Configuration ACU-5000 Operations Manual The ACU-5000 can be used as an individual 12 channel unit, or two units can be connected to create a 24 channel expanded system. The following rules apply to expanded systems: The two ACU-5000 units may be connected together via a standard CAT5 cable plugged into one of the LAN ports on each of the units. The units must be part of the same LAN, either connected directly via CAT5 cable or connected via a network switch. There cannot be a router between the two units. The Primary system provides a handset and channels The Secondary system provides an additional handset and channels You may browse to either system to configure or control the overall ACU-5000 interoperability system. Changes made on one system will automatically propagate to the other. Information related to expanded system operation is provided in Section As can be seen in the screen shots below, any configuration text or settings options that are not currently applicable are visible but grayed out. The Expanded System Configuration portion is not relevant unless the Expanded System system type is selected. Interoperability Now 4-3

30 In the web page below, the Primary System type has been selected and the Expanded System configuration information and entries are therefore available for use. If the expansion unit (that is, the other ACU-5000 that the one being configured will be connected to) is set to Inactive this means that, though configured for future use as an Expanded System, the chassis is currently functioning as a Stand Alone System. Note that to create a functional Expanded System, both chassis must be configured for their appropriate roles (one as primary, the other as secondary), have the IP address of the other chassis listed, and be set to Active. If one of the systems loses power, has its expanded system configuration status changed, or is simply set to Inactive, the other chassis of the expanded system will revert to Stand Alone operation. The same is true if network connectivity between the two chassis is lost. To regain connectivity, re-apply the expanded system settings (or set one system to inactive and save, then set to active and save). Alternatively, simply restarting or power cycling one of the systems will also cause it to re-establish expanded system operation. 4-4 Interoperability Now

31 4.2.3 User Management ACU-5000 Operations Manual This page (available to the existing Super User and System Administrator roles) allows new users to be added to the system. Users are given one of the existing roles, with various permission sets (as noted on next manual page) associated with each role. Alternatively, new roles can be created or the permission sets of an existing role modified. Basic instructions are provided on the User Management page as shown below. Interoperability Now 4-5

32 Initial roles and associated permission sets: Super User (access to all system capabilities) o Control Nets o Change Channel Configurations o Change Basic System Settings o Apply/Update System Software o Configure Users and Roles o Create/Update Channel Profiles System Admin o Control Nets o Change Channel Configurations o Change Basic System Settings Access to these System Settings Pages: o Network Configuration o Expanded System Configuration o Restore System Defaults o Shutdown System No access to these System pages: o User Management o Software Update o PIN Management o License Update o Create/Update Channel Profiles Net and Channel Controller o Control Nets o Change Channel Configurations No access to any System pages Net Only Controller o Control Nets Access to only the Net Control page PIN Management If the system is set up to allow it, external radio or SIP users may use DTMF to control some aspects of the system (see Section 8.2 for more information). PINs are an optional security feature to that proves a level of security to limit who may control the system and what level of control is 4-6 Interoperability Now

33 available to each authorized user. The PIN management tool and a full explanation are available from the PIN Management option on the System menu. (Note that you must have user management permissions to create or modify PINs.) Interoperability Now 4-7

34 4.2.5 Software Update The ACU-5000 may have software updates to add features or to fix errant behaviors. The Software Update tool provides a means for applying these updates. Use the Upload New Software tool at the bottom of the page to upload a new software load to the system. After the software has been uploaded, it will be displayed in a chart with any other uploaded software releases. To apply a software update, select it from the list, then click Apply Selected Version. The software will be applied on the next system restart. After the software update has been applied, the software update package may be deleted from the system, if desired. 4-8 Interoperability Now

35 4.2.6 License Update ACU-5000 Operations Manual The ACU-5000 s channels are enabled via license keys. To increase the number of channels on the system, contact customer support. You may be asked to provide the current System ID (shown on the License Key Update tool; see below), and/or the existing license key file (available for download from the License Key Update tool). After obtaining a license key, upload it to the system. A restart is required for the new license key to take effect. Interoperability Now 4-9

36 4.2.7 Restore Defaults If necessary, the unit can be reset to its factory default settings. If Restore Default Users and Restore Default Network Settings are both set to No, the following are reset: Channel configuration (type of channel & all settings) All net configuration including monitor Stored channel profiles Expansion system settings Stored speed dials If Restore Default Users is set to on, all User configuration data is erased. The only user will be the default su superuser with the password su. Users currently logged in will remain logged in. If Restore Default Network is set to On, all related configuration settings; including the unit s IP address, are erased and reset to factory defaults. This will generate an automatic system restart. Users currently logged in are still logged in following the restart. Software revision history is not deleted, and the system software remains at its current version. Note: It is highly recommended that all system activity be terminated prior to performing a system restore. Any actions taken during the restore operation may be erratic and unpredictable Interoperability Now

37 4.2.8 System Shutdown ACU-5000 Operations Manual Use this page to restart or shutdown the ACU There is a single-board computer within the unit, and as with any computer, it s best to shut down through software control. Note that, if the system is shut down, the ACU-5000 s front panel power switch must be cycled to bring the unit back on. This is similar to shutting down any other computer; while it is shut down, there is no web interface and therefore no capability to respond to web commands. The optional Reason For Shutdown entry allows any possible causes or user activity prior to a shutdown to be logged. This is purely optional. It could be used to help diagnose unwarranted shutdowns if they are found to occur. Interoperability Now 4-11

38 End of Section Interoperability Now

39 5.1 Channel Configuration Overview 5 Channel Configuration The ACU-5000 supports four different channel types, plus a handset for local communications. Click on the Channels tab to bring up the Channels Overview Screen that lists the current channel type assignments. If names have been applied to any channels, they will show up on this page. To configure an individual channel, click on the corresponding channel in the main dropdown menu or on the adjacent Details hypertext link. (You may also enable a double-click behavior in the Control Preferences settings which will allow you to double-click on a channel on the Net Control page to bring up settings for that channel.) If names have been applied to any channels, they will show up on this page. Note: Due to ongoing upgrades and enhancements to the ACU-5000, the unit s web pages may not be exactly the same as those shown in this manual. Check Section 10 for related information Channel Types and Limitations An ACU-5000 channel can be configured to the following channel types: o Radio A comprehensive suite of DSP-based interface algorithms allows competent cross-connection of radio systems with solutions for the problems that these connections can create. The radio channel type also applies to other four-wire devices, as well as iden phones and some types of cellular phones. o SIP For VoIP Phones and Soft Phones using standard SIP protocol. o PSTN For connection to a standard telephone network o RoIP For interface of JPS-proprietary Radio over IP devices such as the NXU-2A, ACU-M, or DSP-2 and DSP-3 modules. o Disabled This channel type is for clarity only, so the user quickly sees that there is no communications device currently associated with the channel The handset is always channel 0 and the PSTN channel type can be used only with channels 1 though 3 due to the hardware present; other that this, any channel can be set to any type. Interoperability Now 5-1

40 5-2 Interoperability Now

41 5.2 Channel Configuration Basic Settings ACU-5000 Operations Manual The first step is to select the desired channel type and other basic settings that apply to all channel types. These basic settings appear at the top of each settings page. Subsequent sections in this manual will provide details related to proper configuration of each channel type. As with the other configuration settings, context-sensitive help is available by hovering over the adjacent circular blue question mark. Note: No settings are applied until the Save Configuration button (at the bottom of each Channel Configuration page) is pressed. Interoperability Now 5-3

42 5.3 Channel Configuration Current Status Information related to each channel s current status is available via this section in the top right of each channel configuration page alongside the Basic Settings. As with other configuration selections, context-sensitive help is available. The status information applies to the existing condition of the channel, irrespective to other settings changes (such as channel type) that are in progress but have not yet been put into effect by clicking on Save Configuration. The ACU-5000 front panel has a set of LEDs that may be useful in system set up & optimization. The COR, PTT, and Signal LEDs may be associated with any of the unit s channels via the Show on Hardware LEDs selection. A wide variety of channel-specific status can be displayed. Click Refresh to show the current overall state of the channel (useful for quickly identifying if this channel is currently having a problem or is in a call). Click Display Current Status to display a window with the current detailed status of the channel. Below is the Current Channel Status report associated with a SIP channel. 5-4 Interoperability Now

43 5.4 Channel Configuration - Handset ACU-5000 Operations Manual Channel zero can be configured only as the handset channel, and no other channel can have this configuration. The handset with PTT switch (provided in the ACU-5000 accessory kit) is plugged into the Handset connector on the unit s front panel. Note that the handset earpiece and the speaker are run by the same audio driver, and changing the volume by the GUI or the front panel controls) changes both. However, the Mute control affects the speaker only. The configuration options available with the handset are COR Type and Audio Level Adjustments. COR Type determines what type of control signal will indicate that a valid audio signal is present and cause the channel to indicate active COR (unsquelched condition). This is important for an interoperability gateway because, for a group of communications systems patched together in an interoperability net, whenever one device in the net has active COR (is unsquelched), the other devices in the net will be placed in transmit mode (active PTT) and will transmit the audio from the unsquelched device. The COR Type selection options are Hardware (the PTT switch on the handset) and VOX (detection of audio in the handset microphone). Use of the switch will prevent loud background noise from tripping the VOX and inappropriately keying any connected devices (and transmitting this background noise over those devices) The context-sensitive help information provides further information and guides proper configuration. Note: For Expanded systems, the Handset in the expansion unit is channel #13 (if used). Interoperability Now 5-5

44 5.5 Channel Configuration - Radio Any of the channels one through 12 can be configured to the Radio channel type. The 12 RJ-45 connectors on the ACU-5000 rear panel provide the radio hardware interfaces. As can be seen on the associated configuration page, along with the Basic Settings and Current Channel Status settings, there are a variety of settings to optimize the interface. The first step is to select, from the Basic Settings Channel Profile dropdown menu, a profile corresponding to the radio or other four-wire device being interfaced (if the profile is available). The Radio Channel type includes an additional COR Type that is, VMR (Voice Modulation Recognition). VMR is useful for noisy signals such as HF, because, rather than being activated by any type of audio, it is triggered only by audio that approximates human speech and it ignores noise and tones. The Radio channel type also includes a DTMF Detection configuration option. When enabled, system radios with DTMF keypads can use DTMF to make and break interoperability nets. See Section 9.3. External DTMF control is also available with PSTN and SIP channels. The context-sensitive help information provides further information and guides proper configuration. 5-6 Interoperability Now

45 5.6 Channel Configuration - PSTN ACU-5000 Operations Manual The PSTN channel type is used for two-wire audio interfaces, typically a connection to a POTS telephone system. POTS is a long-used acronym that stands simply for Plain Old Telephone System and the means of interfacing is to simply plug one end of a standard phone cord into one of the three ACU-5000 rear panel PSTN port, and the other into a wall outlet. Only channels 1 through 3 can be configured to the PSTN channel type. As can be seen on the PSTN channel type configuration page, there are a number of configuration options particular to this channel type. The context-sensitive help information provides further information and guides proper configuration (see on the following manual page the help information related to the Call Termination Settings). Interoperability Now 5-7

46 5-8 Interoperability Now

47 5.7 Channel Configuration - SIP ACU-5000 Operations Manual Any of the ACU-5000 s channels 1 through twelve can be configured to the SIP channel type. The hardware interface for any and all of the SIP channels is any of the ACU-5000 RJ-45 LAN connectors. The SIP channel type configuration page contains a large number of SIP-specific configuration options as can be seen in the figure below (Basic and Current Status settings areas not shown). As always, context-sensitive help information is available to assist proper SIP channel configuration. Interoperability Now 5-9

48 5.8 Channel Configuration - RoIP Any of the ACU-5000 s channels 1 through twelve can be configured to the RoIP channel type. RoIP (Radio over IP) is a JPS Interoperability Solutions proprietary protocol designed to optimize VoIP communications in a radio communications environment. The hardware interface for any and all of the RoIP channels is any of the ACU-5000 RJ-45 LAN connectors. See Section 3.4 for more information regarding the use of this RoIP protocol and the devices that employ it. As is provided for all channel types, context-sensitive help information is available to assist proper RoIP channel configuration Interoperability Now

49 5.9 Observe Mode ACU-5000 Operations Manual The Observe Mode assists system setup and optimization. It allows near instantaneous indications of COR, PTT, and Signal status in the web browser. Due to the IP nature of the system and the many processes underway and the associated communications between system components, there is some delay during normal (non Observe Mode) operations before the display of these status indications. This delay is typically only troublesome during system setup and optimization; the Observe Mode was created to minimize these delays to provide a more realistic understanding of the activity going on among the communications systems attached to the unit to a person setting up the ACU To reach the Observe Mode, select it from the options presented after clicking on the More Actions button. A page similar to the Net Control page will appear. Channel Status is also readily available. The image below shows the Net Control page just before entering Observe Mode. Note: Observe Mode is for system setup and optimization only; it is NOT intended for normal system use. When in Observe Mode the current connection configuration for ACU-5000 channels cannot be altered. The intent is to allow signals for the hardware channels (that is COR, PTT, and SIGNAL information for Radio, PSTN, and Handset channels) to be sent through a streamlined path in the system so that they appear nearly instantaneously in the interface. While in Observe Mode, the unit s front panel LEDs and any signaling relative to SIP and RoIP channels will not be displayed. Interoperability Now 5-11

50 This image shows the same system while in Observe Mode. End of Section Interoperability Now

51 6 System Preferences ACU-5000 Operations Manual This section explains optional behaviors that can be selected via the Preferences pull down menu. Some preferences are stored on a per-user basis (e.g control preferences & password), while others apply to the system as a whole (such as system preferences and speed dials). 6.1 Preferences - Overview The Preferences Overview screen lists the permission sets and provides a brief description: Users with limited permission sets will not be able to view or modify all settings. For example, the screen shot below shows the set of preferences available to user mike who has only the most basic permissions (as defined Section 4.2.3). This basic Nets Only designation allows him only to make and break interoperability connections. The preferences available allow him only to change his password and customize his use of the Net Control GUI. Note: Changes do not take place until Save Changes is clicked. Interoperability Now 6-1

52 6.2 Control Preferences These preferences are open to all users and allow variations in how the Net Control GUI is viewed and operated. For example, some changes allow users who are more familiar with the ACU Controller to modify some GUI behaviors to more closely match that application. If the system is set to Confirm, the user can to view the results of net building or disbanding operations before they actually take place, and allows the opportunity to undo the operations. While the user is moving a channel into a different net (including to the Free net), the GUI will place grey ghost channel icons in the former location of the channel. A mouse-clicking on any of these ghost icons will undo the move. When the move is officially made (typically after clicking on a net icon) the ghost icons are no longer visible, and the channels will begin operating in their new locations. Additional detail is provided on the following pages. Multi-Channel Click Behaviors define what happens when you click on one channel, then click on a different channel. Each user may choose to have the main 'Net Control' page behave in slightly different ways based on how he prefers to use the system. Each user has a personal set of preferences - changing them for one user does not affect other users on the ACU-5000 system. Note: The ACU-5000 is optimized to allow quickest possible operation of the system. Sometimes it may be desirable that some operations are more difficult to perform; in particular, those that if not done correctly can cause an inexperienced operator to make disruptive changes to ongoing communications. The Net Control Preferences options allow some operations to be tailored to 6-2 Interoperability Now

53 take these factors into account. The Confirm and Deselect functions, for example, slow down operation, but with an aim towards ensuring proper system control Net Control - Standard Behavior Preferences Confirm on Selected Net Move If 'yes', the user must 'commit' channel moves by clicking on a net - channels will not be moved to a new net until this is completed (unconfirmed channel moves are represented by gray channel icons where the channel used to be). Confirm on Disband If 'yes', the user must 'commit' net disbands by clicking on a different net - channels will not be moved to the Free net until this is completed (unconfirmed channel moves are represented by gray channel icons where the channel used to be). Channel Double Click Behavior There are 3 options for what happens when a channel icon is double-clicked on: Do Nothing - No action is taken. Open Settings - The settings page for that channel is opened this eliminates the need to navigate to that channel's settings page from the main menu. Open Settings In New Window - The settings page for that channel is opened in a new browser window. This eliminates the need to navigate to that channel's settings page from the main menu. Auto Select Net (when channel added) If 'yes', when adding a channel to a net by clicking, the net will be automatically selected. Clicking on channels when a net is selected will move them to the selected net, so this can make adding many channels to a net a little faster, but may cause inadvertent connections. Note that dragging and dropping channels into nets never causes the net to be selected, regardless of this setting. Auto Deselect Net (after combine) If 'yes', when combining nets to form net groups, the originally selected net will be automatically de-selected. (Net Groups are often comprised of just 2 nets, so enabling this can save a click, but may cause extra clicks when additional nets are needed in the group.) Note that dragging and dropping nets to form net groups never causes a net to be selected or deselected, regardless of this setting. Deselect Cross-Net Button (after action) If 'yes', when performing cross-net operations (adding/removing monitors or priority connections), the selected cross-net control button is automatically de-selected. Monitor and Priority Connections are often comprised of just 2 channels, so enabling this can save a click. However, this will require extra clicks when additional channels are needed in the cross-net connection. Interoperability Now 6-3

54 Deselect Net Button (after action) If 'yes', when performing net-based operations (combining/separating/disbanding nets), the selected net control button is automatically de-selected. (Net Groups are often comprised of just 2 nets, so enabling this can save a click. However, this will require extra clicks when additional net operations are needed.) Net Control - Multi-Channel Click Behaviors These preferences involve how the system responds to clicking on one channel after another. These behaviors can be different based on the situation the channel is in: When Both Channels Are Free Applicable when both channels are in the 'Free' net. When in this situation, 1 of 2 behaviors may be applied: Move Both To New Net - Moves both channels to an unoccupied net. Priority Connect - Establishes a priority connection between the two channels, but leaves them both in the 'Free' net. When One Is Free, One Is In A Net Applicable when one channel is in the 'Free' net and one channel is in any other net. When in this situation, 1 of 3 behaviors may be applied: Move Both to New Net - Moves both channels to a separate unoccupied net. Priority Connect - Establishes a priority connection between the two channels, but leaves them in the nets they are in (one in the 'Free' net, one in another net). Join Occupied Net - The channel in the 'Free' net will be moved to the net the other channel is in. When Both Channels Are In Nets Applicable when both channels are in nets, neither of which are in the 'Free' net. When in this situation, 1 of 2 behaviors may be applied: Move Both to New Net - Moves both channels to a separate unoccupied net. Priority Connect - Establishes a priority connection between the two channels, but leaves them in the nets they are in. 6-4 Interoperability Now

55 6.3 Preferences Change Password ACU-5000 Operations Manual All users have the capability of changing their own passwords. This is operation is performed in the typical fashion as shown below. 6.4 Preferences System Memory Settings The System Memory Settings preferences set what the ACU-5000 will retain under various conditions. If Restore Nets on Power Up is set to No, all channels will be disconnected and moved to the Free Row at power-up. If set to Yes, then interoperability nets that were in operation when the power was cut off will be restored when power is returned. Note that VoIP and PSTN connections will require additional actions for complete restoration of the initial nets that is, the operator (or external user) will have to call back to restore the external connection. Whether and how the system retains Dial Out Destinations is also configurable. An example of a Dial Out Destination is a phone number entered in the NET Control GUI to call a phone number using a PSTN channel. Similar dial out destinations are IP addresses typed in to connect SIP or RoIP channels. Another example is a phone number or IP address entered by an external telephone or SIP User (see Section 9.3 regarding operation by remote DTMF). If the ACU-5000 is set to retain the Dial Out Destinations, appropriate numbers will be accessible when the operator of the Net Control GUI initiates a connection. By appropriate that means that, when the operator initiates a phone call, phone numbers will be accessible, not IP addresses. Interoperability Now 6-5

56 6.5 Preferences System DTMF Settings Two options are available. One simply determines whether to enable the system speed dial capability. The other relates to PIN Security requirements for users externally accessing the ACU for example, telephone or SIP Phone users who dial in to the system and want to make connections to other channels User (see Section 9.3 regarding operation by remote DTMF). Note that, for simplicity s sake, operation by SIP phones sending IP addresses whether in-band or not, are considered as sending DTMF. Note also that each channel may be individually configured as to whether it will allow any detection/operation via external DTMF. One of the possible operations is for a remote user to request a connection to another of the ACU-5000 s channels. If this channel is configured as PSTN, SIP, or RoIP type, the remote user will also be required to enter the remote phone number or IP address. The Enable Speed Dial setting determines whether or not these users will be able enter a Speed Dial rather than enter the full phone number or IP address. Speed dials are set up by the Preferences Speed Dials page, see Section 6.6. Pin Security is covered in depth in the Help information provided on this page in the GUI. The Pin Security database is set up through the System Users page. 6-6 Interoperability Now

57 6.6 Preferences Speed Dials ACU-5000 Operations Manual If enabled, speed dials enable remote users to enter a two-digit speed dial instead of a full destination. When a remote user is prompted for a phone number or destination, instead of entering the full number, he may enter * followed by a speed dial number. The number configured for that speed dial will be dialed automatically. See Section 9.3 for information regarding remote user control via DTMF input to the ACU Speed dials are channel-type specific. That is, there is a set of speed dials for PSTN channels, a set for SIP channels, and a set for RoIP channels. Speed dials apply to all channels of a given type, not to individual channels. For example, if an ACU-5000 has both Channel 1 and Channel 2 set up as PSTN channels, a remote radio user calling in on Channel 6 would use the same PSTN Speed Dial information for connections to either channel Interoperability Now 6-7

58 6.7 Preferences Manage Channel Profiles Channel profiles are a means of saving different sets of settings for channels ahead of time. These settings can then be applied to the channel, preventing the need to manually configure them every time you change the channel type. For example, once a set of settings is optimized for a particular radio type, a profile can be created and quickly applied for that radio type. You can access the channel profile management tool from the Preferences menu, under Manage Channel Profiles. The Create/Modify Channel Profiles permission is required. Once created, the channel profile may be selected from a list of channel profiles (of the same channel type) on the individual channel s configuration page. Continuing with our example, if the same type of radio is attached to another channel (or simply used again in the future), the profile for that radio can be selected from the list of radio profiles on the configuration page. You can search for existing profiles or click on Create New Profile to create a new profile. Multiple tools are available to assist the search function. See above; a search for any Yaesu related profiles is about to be made 6-8 Interoperability Now

59 Alternatively, you may import profiles created by another ACU-5000 system adding them to this system as if they were created locally. Conversely, profiles may be exported for use on other systems. After requesting a profile search a list of results will be displayed (see below) unless only one profile matched the search, in which case you will be taken directly to that profile s configuration page. On the search results page, find the profile you re interested in and click on its name. You will be taken to the Modify Channel Profile tool (next page of this manual), where you can change or delete the profile. Alternatively, you can create a new profile by clicking on Create New Profile on any of the channel profile pages (see subsequent page of this manual). From there, you may create a new profile. Creating and modifying profiles are practically identical operations. See the built-in help documentation for more information on these operations and how to use the individual features of the tool. Interoperability Now 6-9

60 Modify Channel Profile page: This sample profile shows multiple radios that use the same profile. Stored Application notes related to these radio models are stored within the ACU-5000 and can be retrieved by clicking on the Download button. A new search can also be requested from this page. The Save a Copy option at the bottom of this page allows a copy of the current configuration to be saved as an additional profile. This is helpful in either of these two circumstances: To create a new profile that is similar to an existing profile (and therefore it s convenient to use that existing profile as a starting point). To fine tune a profile for a specific radio. Assume, for example, that the existing profile for radio model ABCD works properly for most of these radios but one exhibits atypical operation and requires some changes (for example, to the TX or RX audio levels). The Save a Copy option allows the creation of a profile optimized for this particular radio. If a new name has been provide for the profile when Save a Copy is selected, that new name will be used. Otherwise, the name of the new profile created will be assigned a name that indicates that it s a copy of the original profile Interoperability Now

61 Create Channel Profile page: Use this page to create a new profile from scratch. Interoperability Now 6-11

62 End of Section Interoperability Now

63 7.1 Help Types 7 System Help The ACU-5000 contains a wide array of Help features; most is context sensitive and can be reached without changing the current GUI page. For example, the channel configuration pages include context-sensitive help available by hovering over the adjacent circular blue question mark. At any time, you may also hover over or click on the Help link in the upper-right hand corner of the page to get help related to the tool you are currently using. A simple help utility (shown below) is also provided that provides access to all help topics on the system. This can be found by clicking on the Help tab (to the right of preferences ) and selecting Help Contents. Interoperability Now 7-1

64 Furthermore, this Operations Manual, in PDF format, can be downloaded from the unit, again, click on the Help tag, and select Documentation. End of Section Interoperability Now

65 8 Control Capabilities 8.1 Web Based Control & Configuration ACU-5000 Operations Manual The basic method for both configuration and control is by a PC connected to the unit over an IP network. No special software or setup is required on this PC as control and configuration is performed via web pages served up by the ACU An operator will need to browse to the unit s IP address and supply a proper User Name & Password. Configuration has two basic layers: o Configuration of each of the channels as a VoIP, PSTN, Radio, or RoIP channel. As mentioned previously, the channels can be set up as any of these types, with the only restriction being a limitation of 3 PSTN ports. For clarity, channels can also be configured as currently Disabled. Only licensed channels will be displayed and available for configuration. o Configuration of the related operational parameters (depends on interface type). When a channel s assignment is changed, it will be initially assigned a pre-defined default configuration set. This default template can be modified by the user, and additional templates can be created and stored for quick retrieval. Control of the system essentially involves determining which of the channels will be crossconnected. The web control interface provides a graphical means to easily modify these connections and quickly understand the current connection state. Extensive context-sensitive help is available from the GUI, and further operating instructions are provided in Section DTMF Connection Control A user may use DTMF signaling to create and break interconnections related to the communications port that this user is associated with. For example, a telephone, cell phone, or VoIP phone user may issue a series of DTMF characters that allow that user to dial-in to an ACU-5000 PSTN or VoIP channel, and then make or break interconnections with other system channels. This activity will be guided by system voice prompts. Similarly, radios with DTMF keypads may access and control the system. See step-by-step instructions in Section Restore System Defaults A menu item on the System page allows the unit to be restored to its initial default state. The operator is given the option of whether or not to delete the current set of stored channel profiles. Interoperability Now 8-1

66 8.4 IP Address and Password Reset The system s recessed reset switch provides a means to determine the unit s current IP address and also to reset the unit to factory defaults. A momentary press of the switch (up to five seconds) results in the current IP address being read out over the handset and local speaker. A five to ten second press resets network settings and users (IP address of , subnet mask of , login with su username and su as the password), while a reset press of over ten seconds will reset the entire unit to its initial factory default conditions (which also includes network settings and users). The reset switch is accessible via a small hole in the rear panel alongside the unit s power connector. End of Section Interoperability Now

67 9 Operating Instructions This section describes the ACU-5000 operational procedures. All operation is performed either by web browser or via DTMF Control. The web interface s Graphical User Interface (GUI) is carefully designed to provide a range of easily accessible context-sensitive help information. DTMF operations are similar for phone, VoIP, or radio operation. Voice prompts are included to guide the user through the steps required to create and terminate cross-connections. See Section 10 for information related to recent feature additions or changes. A notable addition is the new Drag & Drop Net Management Capability. 9.1 Web-Based Operation- Net Management Initial Net Control Page The figure below shows the Net Control GUI when none of the ACU-5000 channels are engaged in interoperability cross-patches. The channels are configured in the various types available; all channels are situated in the top "Free" net. Whenever any channel is in the Free net it is not communicating with any other channels (Monitor Mode operation and monitor communication excepted see Section 9.1.5) How to Connect and Disconnect Channels Begin to connect channels in a new net by clicking on the channel icons one at a time. After two are selected, they will be moved to an empty net, and they will then be immediately able to communicate with each other. To add more channels to a net, simply select the net (from the Interoperability Now 9-1

68 buttons on the left; the net will darken to indicate that it is selected), and then click the channels. The channels may display a grayed-out box from the net they were in before being moved. This indicates that the channel move is not yet final, and serves as a temporary record of the channel's previous net assignment. To finalize the change, de-select the net (by selecting it or by selecting a different net). To cancel the change prior to the finalization, click on the grayed-out channel. Note that after any two channels are clicked to enter an empty net, that net is selected and ready for additional channels to be added. If an operator prefers to not use the grayed out boxes as confirmation of a desired change (thereby eliminating a step), this can be changed through the Net Control Preferences. The screen shot below shows two active nets: Net 1 connects the channel zero handset with channels four and six (both configured as radios). Net 2 connects channel 1 (a PSTN channel) with the channel 2 (another radio channel). Moving a channel back up to the 'Free' net terminates that channel s current communications (again, Monitor Mode operation is an exception). Alternatively, to disconnect all of the channels in a net, click the 'Disband Net' button, then click the net to disband them (or click the net first then click 'Disband Net'). Alternatively, drag & drop the Net icon over the Free icon. Again, the grayed-out box will be visible until the operation is finalized by deselecting the "Free" net by clicking the Free net or initiating another activity by clicking on any other net. Again, if an operator prefers to not use the grayed-out boxes as confirmation of a desired change (thereby eliminating a step), this can be changed through the Net Control Preferences. 9-2 Interoperability Now

69 Note the information line at the bottom left of the screen shot. Various pertinent messages are placed here; each refers either to the current state (as with the System Ready message above) or the status of the previous operation. Note: Drag-and-Drop procedures can also be used to create and disband nets. Simply drag an icon to a net line to place it in a net, or from a net to the Free net line to take it out of the net. An entire net can be freed up by dragging the net icon (for example Net 2 ) to the Free icon Dial Out Operation All channel types other than the Radio type may Dial Out to select the external link destination (a phone number for a PSTN channel, or an IP address for a SIP or RoIP channel). To cause one of these channels to dial out, click the 'Connect' button, then click the channel icon. You will be prompted for a destination (if applicable). If a channel is configured to 'Require Connect on Link', you will be automatically prompted to dial out whenever the channel is moved into a net. Note the grayed-out channel 8 SIP channel icon in the Free row. This indicates that communications can t begin until the SIP channel makes an external IP connection. This occurs after the IP address is entered and the Connect Now button has been clicked (see below). Interoperability Now 9-3

70 In the previous screen shot, the Net 3 icon and the net line are both still dark green to indicate that channel building operation is still active and other channels can be quickly added to the net. After clicking on radio channel number 5 (to add channel 5 to the net), and again on Net 3 (to deselect Net 3 and terminate the net building process), the Net control page has three operational nets: 9-4 Interoperability Now

71 Similarly, to hang up a channel (remove it from a net), click the 'Disconnect' button, then click the channel. Alternatively, simply drag & drop to the Free net. This will cause the channel to terminate its external link connection. If a channel is configured to 'Disconnect on Free', the channel will automatically hang up when it is moved to the Free net Dial In Operation (answer incoming call) To answer an incoming call (indicated by a yellow status icon in the upper right corner of a channel icon), click the 'Answer' button, then click the channel. If the channel is configured to automatically answer incoming calls, the call will be answered automatically and no action is necessary Monitor Mode Operation (Cross Net Link) Monitor Mode allows a channel to monitor the audio of another channel (or channels). Enter Monitor Mode setup by clicking on the 'Monitor' button (in the Cross-Net Links button area). Next, click the channel that will monitor the audio of the other channel(s). It will be marked as the master monitor by a yellow star in the upper left and the white outline on its monitor group number in the lower left. Then click on the channel or channels that it will monitor. Each will have a blue circle in the upper left and the same monitor group number in the lower left. The master channel will immediately begin the monitor operation. This screen shot shows the operation to set up the handset to monitor channels one through six almost complete: Interoperability Now 9-5

72 When setup of this master is finished, click the 'Monitor' button again. The small status indicators in the upper left of the icons will disappear to indicate that the setup of this monitor group is complete. The screen shot on the following manual page shows what the system looks like after the setup is complete and terminated by clicking again on the Monitor button. In this example, the handset is not only monitoring channels 1 through 6; it s a member of Net 1 that also includes channels four and six. This results in the following audio transfers: The handset user hears the incoming audio of channels one through six. In this example, any audio received by R2, R4, R5 and R6 is mixed with any incoming audio on the phone lines connected to PSTN ports P1 and P3; this mixed signal can be heard in the handset and/or speaker. (Monitor mode functions for channels whether they are free, in a net with the monitoring channel, or in a net that does not include the monitoring channel). When the handset user activates the handset PTT and talks, his speech is transmitted only by radio channels four and six. Monitor Mode does not send audio out from the monitoring channel to the channels being monitored. Channels 4 and 6 receive this audio only because they are in a net with the handset. Channels four and six can hear also each other, but only because they are members of Net 1. There is no other audio transfer between channels one through six. Monitor mode communications are one way only from the monitored channels to the monitoring channel. 9-6 Interoperability Now

73 There may be multiple master monitors, monitoring any or all of the channels simultaneously. Different master monitors and monitor groups are differentiated by the color-coded number icon on the channel in the lower corners of the icons. If multiple masters are monitoring a single channel, the icon will be a '+' sign rather than a number. Use the Status button to quickly determine which master monitor channels are monitoring the channel. Click Status and then the channel icon; the status information provided will list the numbers of the channels that are monitoring the selected channel. Note: A master monitor channel cannot monitor another master monitor channel. To retain a monitor group, but stop monitoring one or more of the channels that are currently being monitored, click the 'Remove' button (from the Monitors button area). Then, click any channel to stop monitoring it. To terminate the entire monitor group, following a click on the Remove button (it will be yellow), click on a master monitor channel icon in this case the handset channel Priority Connections Priority Connections are used to make connections (normally temporary) between individual modules that are (usually, but there is no restriction) not in the same net. For example, commander A of the red team wants to have a quick talk with commander B of the blue team. They do not want anyone in their original nets to be part of this planning session, but they do want to return to the original nets as soon as their conversation is over. Priority Connections are indicated by a circle with a white outline; if multiple Priority Connections are in place, they can be easily differentiated by their color and number. Interoperability Now 9-7

74 The following screen shot shows a Priority Connection in the process of being made between Channel 4 and Channel 7. When the building of this connection is complete (following another click on the Priority button), the yellow stars in the top left corners will no longer be present. Note: The Deselect Cross-Net Button (after action) option in the Preferences>Control Preferences page allows a user to be forced to click on a Cross-Net Links control button after each full activity. This may be desirable to prevent inadvertent changes if the initial selection of that button is forgotten and not turned off at the proper time. Some properties of Priority Connections: Making or breaking Priority Connections does not interfere with the structure of existing nets. While channels are part of a Priority Connection, they may communicate only with other members of that Priority Connection. They are not in communication with the other members of their existing nets (except for any net members that are part of the same Priority Connection). Priority Connections cannot be merged together. Priority Connections may be made up of members of the same net. The screen shot on the following page shows a pair of Priority Connections: Priority Connection 1 consists of channel 4 (R4) and channel 7 (R7) this is the connection started in the previous screen shot. Priority Connection 2 consists of the handset, channel 2, and Channel Interoperability Now

75 To break a Priority Connection, select both Remove and Priority (yellow). Then click on any channel icon that s currently in a Priority Connection to remove it from that connection Remove Button - Special Properties Use the Remove button to break both Priority and Monitor Connections. If both types of connection in use simultaneously, the recommended operation is to select both Remove and whichever type of connection that is to be affected Priority or Monitor. If only Remove is selected and you click on a channel icon that currently includes both types of connections, the Priority Connection will be removed Net Group Operation Net Groups may be created by temporarily combining existing nets. Temporarily means that the nets can be returned to their initial separate configurations. The channels in the net groups share all their audio as if they were all in one net. First click the 'Combine' button (from the net button area), then click on the nets you want to link together. Linked nets will color code themselves and move next to each other for easy visibility. After all desired nets are combined, click 'Combine' again to stop building the group. Multiple net groups may be created. Similarly, to separate existing net groups, click the 'Separate' button, and then click a net to remove it from the group. The net will immediately disconnect itself from the other nets in the group, and return to its original position on the page. When finished separating net groups, click the 'Separate' button again to leave this mode. On the following screen shot, Net 2 and Net 6 are been combined into the green net group. More than two nets can be combined. Again, drag & drop can be used instead of point & click. Interoperability Now 9-9

76 Above Before Net 3 and Net 6 are combined into a Net Group. Below After the Net Group is built 9-10 Interoperability Now

77 9.1.9 Additional Operations ACU-5000 Operations Manual There are several additional operations that are helpful for quick control of system connections. They include: Disband to quickly disconnect an entire net. Connect All to create a single net that includes all appropriate channels. Mark Positions and Revert to Mark to temporarily modify the system connections Disband All to disconnect all channels in all nets Disband Use the Disband button from the set of controls in the Nets section to disconnect an entire individual net. Click on the Net Number icon on the left of the screen, and then on Disband. Or click Disband, and then the Net Number Icon. If any Net is selected when the Disband button is pressed, all the channels in that net will be returned to the Free row. Alternatively, drag & drop drag the Net # icon up to the Free net icon Connect All Under the More Actions selections on the right side of the screen are Connect All and Disconnect All. If Connect All is clicked, all appropriate channels in the system will be connected into a single large net. The only channels that are not appropriate for the Connect All function are PSTN, SIP, and RoIP channels that are not currently engaged in a call with an external communications device via a phone line or IP network. To return all channels to the states they were in prior to invoking Connect All, select Revert under More Actions. See more about the Revert feature in the following section Revert to Previous Connection Status via Channel Position Marking The ability to Mark the current set of connections, make some temporary changes to the connections, and quickly revert to the original connections can be very helpful and time saving. First identify the connection status that you want to be able to revert to later by simply clicking on Mark Positions (under More Actions ). After this has been done, whenever Revert is selected, the ACU-5000 channel connection state will revert to the set of connections in existence when Mark Positions was selected. Note: When Connect All is selected, the connection state is automatically marked, allowing the operator to revert to the set of connections in place prior to the invocation of the Connect All operation. The previous Mark Positions information will be lost Disband All Use Disband All to break all current connections and move all channel icons back up to the Free Row. Unlike Connect All; there is no automatic Mark operation, so be sure to use it prior to the Disband All operation if you want to return to previous status. Interoperability Now 9-11

78 Expanded System Operation Operation of an expanded system is no different than single-unit operation; there are simply more available channels and more potential nets. Below is the Channel Configuration Overview page. Note that: For the Primary System, the handset is Channel 0 and the external interoperability channels are numbered one through twelve. Only channels one, two, or three can be set to the PSTN channel type. For the expansion system, the numbering picks up where this left off, with the handset as Channel 13 and the external interoperability channels are numbered 14 through 25. Only channels 14, 15, or 16 can be set to the PSTN channel type. If so desired, handsets may be used with both the Primary and Expansion Systems. If only one local handset is operational the Expansion System handset is set to Disabled Interoperability Now

79 The Net Control screen shot below shows an expanded system and the larger supply of nets to allow control of the additional channels. If the monitor is not tall enough to show all the nets, the user may scroll down to see the higher number nets. Interoperability Now 9-13

80 Live Status Information There is a variety of live, current status information available. Some is in the form of indicators that appear on the channel icons; additional information pertinent to any individual channel can be brought up by hovering over the channel icon. COR and PTT indicators appear in the lower left and right corners of the channel as audio moves through that channel. When the COR icon is displayed, it means that channel is providing audio to the net. When the PTT icon is displayed, it means that channel is sending audio out to its connected device. To understand more completely, consider Net 1 in the image below. Four radios are connected to radio channels R8 to R11. If the radio cabled to R8 is receiving a transmission, its COR is active as shown by the green COR indicator in the lower left of the R8 icon. In any net, if one of the members of the net has active COR, the audio it is receiving will be transmitted via the other members of that net. Therefore, R9 through R11 are all showing a red PTT indicator in the lower right corner. Note that COR and PTT status information can be somewhat delayed, but is still useful as a means of identifying that a net has active audio on it. For near-instantaneous display during system set up, see the discussion of Observation Mode in Section 5.9. To obtain additional current status information about a channel, Click on Status and the appropriate channel icon. A status information box will appear (included will be any current monitor mode information - useful for when multiple masters are monitoring the same channel). Other aspects of a channel s overall status are displayed in a small icon on the upper right corner of the channel icon. The icons will change automatically as the channel s state changes. More information is provided in Section below Interoperability Now

81 Status Indicators on Channel Icons ACU-5000 Operations Manual Note the small circle in the upper right corners of some of the channel icons in the previous image, with enlarged examples below. These small indicator icons provide additional information of a channel s overall current state. Multiple indicator icons available, each describes a different channel state: o No icon The channel is idle, with no errors. On a Radio or Handset channel, this is the standard state. On other channels (PSTN, SIP, and RoIP), this means the channel is not in any active calls and is available for use. o Yellow With Dot The channel is in progress of doing something. Typically, it is in this state very briefly while it is making or answering a call. [As in Channel S8 above left.] o Yellow Waves The channel is ringing because an outside party has called into the system. This channel may be answered using the Answer button. This only applies to PSTN and SIP channels. o Solid Green The channel is in an active call. This only applies to PSTN, SIP, and RoIP channels. o Red With Exclamation There is an error with this channel, or it was unable to make a requested connection (e.g., there was no dial tone on a PSTN line). Depending on the cause of the situation, you may be able to clear this status by clicking on the Hang Up button, then clicking on the channel. [As in Channel S8 above right.] o Red With Dash This channel is offline. Something is wrong with this channel. Typically, this is only seen when an expansion system loses connectivity (and thus the channels are unreachable). Interoperability Now 9-15