Product

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2. Product

RipEX2 is a radio modem platform renowned for overall data throughput in any real-time environment. RipEX2 radio modems are native IP devices, Software Defined with Linux OS that have been designed with attention to detail, performance and quality.

RipEX2 is built into a rugged die-cast aluminium casing that allows for multiple installation possibilities, see Section 4.3, “Mounting”.

[Explosive atmospheres]Explosive atmospheres

DO NOT HANDLE UNLESS THE AREA IS KNOWN TO BE NON-HAZARDOUS

 

2.1. Dimensions

RipEX2 dimensions

Fig. 2.1: RipEX2 dimensions


RipEX2 dimensions – bottom

Fig. 2.2: RipEX2 dimensions – bottom


RipEX2 with DIN rail

Fig. 2.3: RipEX2 with DIN rail


For more information see Section 4.3.1, “DIN rail mounting” and Section 4.3.2, “Flat mounting”.

RipEX2 dimensions with connectors

Fig. 2.4: RipEX2 dimensions with connectors


RipEX2- with optional cellular interface dimensions

Fig. 2.5: RipEX2– with optional cellular interface dimensions


2.2. Connectors

All connectors are located on the front panel. The upper side features a LED panel. The HW button is located on the front panel as well (close to the COM connector).

Connectors

Fig. 2.6: Connectors


[Explosive atmospheres]Explosive atmospheres

Do not manipulate the RipEX (e.g. plug or unplug connectors) unless powered down or the area is known to be non-hazardous.

2.2.1. Antenna

Antenna connectors

Fig. 2.7: Antenna connectors


An antenna can be connected to RipEX2 via TNC female 50Ω connector.

RipEX2 is equipped with two connectors. The Tx/Rx connector will be used for common transmitting and receiving single antenna installation (even with different Rx and Tx frequencies).

Both Rx and Tx/Rx connectors for split installation (separated Tx and Rx antennas or full duplex operation with duplexer) – Rx for receiving and Tx/Rx for transmitting.

[Note]Note

HW option RipEX2e (product variant ‘C’ and ‘D’) provides only Tx/Rx connector.

[Warning]Warning

RipEX2 radio modem may be damaged when operated without an antenna or a dummy load.

[Explosive atmospheres]Explosive atmospheres

Antenna has to be installed outside of the hazardous zone.

2.2.2. Power and Control

This rugged connector connects to a power supply and it contains control signals. A Plug with screw-terminals and retaining screws for power and control connector is supplied with each RipEX2. It is Tyco 7 pin terminal block plug, part No. 1776192-7, contact pitch 3.81 mm. The connector is designed for electric wires with a cross section of 0.5 to 1.5 mm2. Strip the wire leads to 6 mm (1/4 inch). Isolated cables should receive PKC 108 or less end sleeves before they are inserted in the clip. Insert the cables in the wire ports, tightening securely.

Tab. 2.1: Pin assignment

PinLabeledSignal
1SISLEEP INPUT
  • pull below 1.1 VDC to activate (1.1 VDC / 1.9 VDC threshold hysteresis)

  • max. 30 VDC

2AIHW ALARM INPUT
  • pull below 1.1 VDC to activate (1.1 VDC / 1.9 VDC threshold hysteresis)

  • max. 30 VDC

3−(GND) – for SLEEP IN, HW ALARM INPUT
4++(POWER) – for HW ALARM OUTPUT
5AOHW ALARM OUTPUT
open drain output max. 30 VDC, 1 A
6++ POWER (10 to 30 V)
Undervoltage threshold 8.5 VDC
Overvoltage threshold 41 VDC
7− POWER (GND)

Pins 3 and 7 are connected internally.
Pins 4 and 6 are connected internally.

Supply connector

Fig. 2.8: Supply connector


Power and Control - cable plug

Fig. 2.9: Power and Control – cable plug


[Explosive atmospheres]Explosive atmospheres

The unit must be powered with an intrinsic save power source for use in hazardous locations.

HW ALARM INPUT

HW ALARM INPUT is a digital input. If grounded (e.g. by connecting to pin 3), an external alarm is triggered.

HW ALARM OUTPUT

HW ALARM OUTPUT is a digital output.

POWER

The POWER pins labelled + and – serve to connect a power supply 10–30 VDC. The requirements for a power supply are defined in Section 4.9, “Power supply” and Chapter 9, Technical parameters.

2.2.3. ETH1 – ETH4

Standard RJ45 connectors for Ethernet connection. RipEX2 has 10/100/1000Base-T Auto MDI/MDIX interfaces so it can connect to 10 Mb/s, 100 Mb/s or 1000 Mb/s Ethernet network. The speed can be selected manually or recognized automatically by RipEX2. RipEX2 is provided with Auto MDI/MDIX function which allows it to connect over both standard and cross cables, adapting itself automatically.

Pin assignment

Tab. 2.2: Ethernet to cable connector connections

PinSignalDirect cableCrossed cable 
1TX+ orange – white green – white
2TX− orange green
3RX+ green – white orange – white
4 blue blue
5 blue – white blue – white
6Rx− green orange
7 brown – white brown – white
8 brown brown

[Note]Note

HW option RipEX2e (product variant ‘C’ and ‘D’) provides only ETH1 – ETH2 interfaces.

2.2.4. ETH5 (SFP)

SFP slot

Fig. 2.10: SFP slot


ETH5 is a standard SFP slot for 10/100/1000 Mb/s Ethernet SFP modules, user exchangeable with maximal power consumption 1.25 W. Both fibre optic and metallic Ethernet SFP modules are supported. For optical both single and dual mode fibre optics Ethernet modules (= 2 or 1 fibers) can be used. CSFP modules are not supported. RACOM offers all mentioned types of SFP modules, tested to be RipEX2 compatible as a standard accessory.

The SFP status LED is located just next to the slot. It is controlled by SFP module. Its function is specific for each SFP module. The typical behavior is an indication the received signal from the fibre optic or metallic link to be within operational range.

[Important]Important

It is strongly recommended to use a high quality SFP module with industry temperature range. The SFP modules listed in Accessories are thoroughly tested by RACOM and are guaranteed to function with RipEX2 units. It is possible to use any other SFP module, but RACOM cannot guarantee they will be completely compatible with RipEX2 units.

[Note]Note

HW option RipEX2e (product variant ‘C’ and ‘D’) does not provide ETH5 interface.

2.2.5. COM

RipEX2 provides serial interface COM terminated by DSUB9F connectors. It can be configured as RS232 or RS485.

RS232 of RipEX2 is a hard-wired DCE (Data Communication Equipment) device. Equipment connected to the serial port of RipEX2 unit should be DTE (Data Terminal Equipment) and a straight-through cable should be used. If a DCE device is connected to the serial port of RipEX2, a null modem adapter or cross cable has to be used.

RS485 of RipEX2 is not galvanic isolated and it is not terminated.

Tab. 2.3: COM pin description RipEX2

DSUB9FCOM – RS232COM – RS485 
PinSignalIn/ OutSignalIn/ Out
1CDOut
2RxDOutline BIn/Out
3TxDInline AIn/Out
4DTRIn
5GNDGND
6DSROut
7RTSIn
8CTSOut
9RIOut

RipEX2 keeps pin 6 DSR at the level of 0 (state ON, approx. +6.2 V) by RS232 standard permanently.

Tab. 2.4: COM pin description RipEX2e

DSUB9FCOM – RS232COM – RS485COM2 – RS232 (optional) 
PinSignalIn/ OutSignalIn/ OutSignalIn/ Out
1CDOut
2RxDOutline BIn/Out
3TxDInline AIn/Out
4TxDIn
5GNDGNDGND
6RxDOut
7RTSIn
8CTSOut
9RIOut

Extension module ‘C’ (2 × RS232)

The 2nd and 3rd COM ports are available when the Extension module ‘C’ (2 × RS232) is installed. In such a case: The DI/DO connector is used as a connector for COM2 and COM3.

COM2 and COM3 parameters:

  • COM2: RS232 – 5 pin (RxD, TxD, GND, RTS, CTS) 600 b/s to 2 Mb/s

  • COM3: RS232 – 3 pin (RxD, TxD, GND) 2.4 kb/s to 921.6 kb/s

    Tab. 2.5: DI/DO connector used by Extension module ‘C’

    PinSignalIn / Out 
    1RxD COM3Out
    2TxD COM3In
    3GND 
    4CTS COM2Out
    5RTS COM2In
    6GND 
    7RxD COM2Out
    8TxD COM2In

       

    This interface is not compatible with RipEX2-HS.
    If the RipEX2 unit is installed in the RipEX2-HS (Hot Standby chassis), the DI/DO interface is dedicated for the Hot Standby operation.

2.2.6. USB

RipEX2 uses USB 3.0, Host A interface. USB interface is wired as standard:

Tab. 2.6: USB A Pinout Cable Assembly

PinSignalWire 
1VBUSRed
2D-White
3D+Green
4GNDBlack
5StdA_SSRX-Blue
6StdA_SSRX+Yellow
7GND_DRAIN GROUND
8StdA_SSTX-Purple
9StdA_SSTX+Orange
ShellShieldConnector Shell

The USB interface is designed for the connection to an external ETH/USB adapter or a WiFi adapter. They are optional accessories to RipEX2, for more details see www/ripex/accessories. The adapters are used for service access to web configuration interface of RipEX2 unit.

The USB connector also provides power supply (5 V / 0.5 A). It can be used to temporarily power a connected device, for instance a telephone. The USB connector should not be used as permanent source of power supply.

[Explosive atmospheres]Explosive atmospheres

Only USB equipments dedicated for hazardous locations shall remain connected permanently.

2.2.7. EXT

EXT connector SMA

Fig. 2.11: EXT connector SMA


EXT SMA female 50 Ohm connector is used for several purposes according to HW variant.

Standard basic model – the EXT is used as an synchronization signal input.

Input frequency range 1 Hz (PPS) – 25 MHz

Input signal level >200 mVp-p @ 220R, up to 5V TTL levels

Time synchronisation from outer source will be implemented in future FW releases.

RipEX2 can be equipped with an internal G – Extension GPS (GNSS) module (see details). The GPS module is used for time synchronization of the NTP server inside RipEX2. In this case the EXT connector serves for connecting the GPS antenna:

  • active antenna

  • 3.3 VDC supply

[Note]Note

Interface AUX was renamed to EXT (FW version 2.0.13.0. and newer).

[Note]Note

HW option RipEX2e (product variant ‘C’ and ‘D’) does not provide EXT interface.

 

2.2.8. DI/DO

Tab. 2.7: Digital Inputs and Outputs

PinDescriptionSignal 
1DI1+Digital input (differential) – Positive – (P)
2 DI1-Digital input (differential) – Negative – (N)
3GNDGround
4DO1

Digital Output 1

5 DO2

Digital Output 2

6GNDGround
7DI2Digital Input 2
8DI3Digital Input 3

  • Digital Outputs:

    • Open drain output max. 30 VDC, 0.2 A

  • Isolated differential digital input:

    • Input voltage difference (P-N) > 1.9 VDC Logic “H”

    • Input voltage difference (P-N) < 1.1 VDC Logic “L”

    • Maximum differential voltage 30 V

  • Digital inputs:

    • Schmitt-triggered inverted input

    • Pull below 1.1 VDC to activate (1.1 VDC / 1.9 VDC threshold hysteresis)

    • Max. 30 VDC

If the RipEX2 unit is installed in the RipEX2-HS (Hot Standby chassis), the DI/DO interface is dedicated for the Hot Standby operation.

[Note]Note

HW option RipEX2e (product variant ‘C’ and ‘D’) does not provide DI/DO interface.

2.2.9. HW button

HW button

Fig. 2.12: HW button


HW button is placed on the right side of COM interface.

HW button scheme

Fig. 2.13: HW button scheme


HW button operation

  • Press less than 2 seconds – Nothing happens

  • Press from 2 up to 7 seconds – Reboot is performed on button release

  • Press from 7 up to 20 seconds – Factory settings are performed on button release

  • Press more than 20 seconds – Nothing happens

2.3. Cellular interface

RipEX2 radio modem can be delivered with the cellular extension.

2.3.1. Antenna

RipEX2 radio modem equipped with the LTE cellular module has two additional SMA antenna connectors mounted on the opposite side than radio antenna connectors.

It is recommended to use both antennas (Rx diversity) for the LTE connection. In case of using only one antenna, attach it to the EXT1 connector. The EXT1 connector is used for both transmitting and receiving, or for single-antenna setups. The EXT2 connector is specifically for Rx diversity.

2.3.2. SIM cards

Two SIM card holders for Micro SIM (3FF) are available under the screwed cover on the RipEX2 bottom side.

[Warning]Warning

Disconnect RipEX2 unit from a power supply before opening the cover and manipulating with SIM cards.

2.4. Indication LEDs

Indication LEDs

Fig. 2.14: Indication LEDs


Tab. 2.8: Key to LEDs

LEDColourStatusFunction
SYSGreenPermanently litSystem OK
Flashing – period 500 msReset button pushed
Three fast (50 ms) flashes – pause (500 ms)Reset button factory reset
Flashing regularly – period 2000 msSleep mode activated
RedPermanently litAlarm
Flashing regularly – period 500 msSerious system error
OrangePermanently litUnit booting
Three fast (75 ms) flashesUSB flash disc inserted
Flashing fast (75ms) – period 1000 msInteraction with USB flash disc
Green / OrangeFlashing regularly – period 300 msFW activation – do not shut down the device
EXTGreenPermanently lit

Activity of mPCIe connected equipment (like GPS fix, LTE connected, …)

RedPermanently lit

Alarm of mPCIe connected equipment

Table of Signal levels for individual services for cellular interface
Table of GNSS activity
RxGreenPermanently litReceiver is synchronized to a packet
YellowPermanently lit, or flashing in 1 sec
intervals
Rx mode of operation – High resiliance (strong interfering signals – above -45 dBm – are present within the frequency band)
TxRedPermanently litTransmitting to radio channel
COMGreenPermanently litData receiving
YellowPermanently litData transmitting

Alarm

An Alarm is triggered by any event with severity Error or higher (see Section 8.4, “Events”).

High resilience mode

LED signalization of receiver High resilience mode can be enabled/disabled by configuration item ADVANCED > Interfaces > Radio > Radio parameters > High resilience LED indication (see Section 7.1.2.7.2, “Radio channel – advanced ” for details).

2.5. Ordering codes

 

  •  

  • Trade name – trade and marketing name of the product. This name is used for all products within the same product family.

    • Possible values: RipEX

  • Gen. – generation of the product of specific Trade name. The very first generation does not have any number in this position.

    • Possible values: none, 2

  • Band – frequency band and sub-band

    • Possible values:

    • 1A: 135–175 MHz

    • 3A: 285–335 MHz

    • 3B: 335–400 MHz

    • 4A: 400–470 MHz

    • 4B: 450–520 MHz

    • 8A: 803–897 MHz

    • 9A: 860–960 MHz

  • Ext. – Extension module embedded in mPCIe slot

    • Possible values:

    • N – not used (the only option for RipEX2e)

    • E** – Extension cellular module, Bands E; Part No.: mPCIe-E

    • P** – Extension cellular module, Bands P ; Part No.: mPCIe-P

    • A** – Extension cellular module, Bands A; Part No.: mPCIe-A

    • W – Extension cellular module; Part No.: mPCIe-W
      Bands W – 4G/3G/2G, Global

    • M – Extension cellular module; Part No.: mPCIe-M
      Bands M – LTE Cat M1/NB1/NB2, Global (incl. 450 MHz)

    • O – Extension cellular module; Part No.: mPCIe-O
      Bands O – LTE Cat M1/NB1/NB2, Global

    • G – Extension GPS (GNSS) module; Part No.: mPCIe-GPS

    • C – Extension module 2× RS232; Part No.: mPCIe-COMS

    • Note: just one option for mPCIe slot is possible

  • Var. – designation of product variant. This variant is fixed in unit HW and cannot be changed later on.

    • Possible values:

    • E – RipEX2, Data encryption possible.

    • N – RipEX2, Data encryption never possible.

    • C*** – RipEX2e, processor without HW encryption support.

    • D*** – RipEX2e, processor without HW encryption support. Encryption features will never be possible.

    • H – RipEX2e, Data encryption possible. COM2 available.

    • J – RipEX2e, Data encryption never possible. COM2 available.

    • X*– RipEX2, processor with HW encryption support.

  • SW keys – if unit is ordered with SW keys, all keys are specified in this bracket. SW key can be ordered independently for specific S/N anytime later on.

    • Possible values:

    • Master – enables all functionalities of all possible SW feature keys, excl. Ex; Part No.: RipEX2-SW-MASTER, RipEX2e-SW-MASTER

    • Protocols – enables Radio protocols (Flexible, Base driven); Part No.: RipEX2-SW-PROTOCOLS

    • Dynamic routing – enables Dynamic routing (Babel, OSPF, BGP; Link management); Part No.: RipEX2-SW-DYNAMIC-ROUTING

    • Speed – enables 256QAM, Channels > 50kHz, Full duplex, RipEX2 only; Part No.: RipEX2-SW-SPEED

    • Power – enables RF power 40 dBm PEP; Part No.: RipEX2-SW-POWER

    • Security – enables IPsec, OpenVPN, RADIUS, Multiple users; Part No.: RipEX2-SW-SECURITY

    • SFP – enables SFP interface, RipEX2 only; Part No.: RipEX2-SW-SFP

    • COM2 – enables COM2 interface, RipEX2e only; Part No.: RipEX2e-SW-COM2

    • Ex – authorization for use RipEX2 in hazardous location II 3G Ex ic IIA T4 Gc. Part No.: RipEX2-Ex (Note: Ex keys are available only for units produced after 1st of January 2022)

  • Region – used for countries where specific restrictions are required. Available only on special request when ordering. If used, it is indicated in bracket along with the SW keys.

    • Possible values:

    • US – USA, Allowed freq. according to FCC part 90
      RipEX2 – 1A: 150.8 – 156.2475, 157.1875 – 161.575, 161.775 – 161.9625, 162.0375 – 170.0 MHz; Reg. ID: 1A-FCC_Part_90
      RipEX2 – 4A: 4A: 406.1 – 454.0, 456 – 462.5375, 462.7375 – 467.5375, 467.7375 – 470.0 MHz; Reg. ID: 4A-FCC_Part_90

    • RU – Russia, Allowed freq. according to Russian regulations
      RipEX2 – 1A: 146.0 – 174.0 MHz; Reg. ID: 1A-Russia
      RipEX2 – 4A: 403.0 – 410.0, 433.0 – 450.0 MHz; Reg. ID: 4A-Russia
      RipEX2 – 4A: 433.0 – 450.0 MHz; Adjusted product label; Reg. ID: 4-Russia

    • BR – Brazil, 6.25 kHz channel not allowed
      RipEX2 – 4A: Additional sticker (Anatel 16763) on product and paper box; Reg. ID: 4A-Brazil

    • MX – Mexico, Additional sticker on product and paper box

  • Type – specific product type

    • Possible values:

    • RipEX2-1

    • RipEX2-3

    • RipEX2-4

  • Code – part of order code which is printed on Product label on the housing (SW keys are not HW dependent and can be ordered later on, so they are not printed on Product label).

  • Order code – the complete product code, which is used on Quotations, Invoices, Delivery notes etc.

    In order to find out the correct Order code, please use E-shop.

* The processor included in the unit uses an encryption module listed as 5A002 a.1 in the Regulation (EU) 2021/821, setting up a Community regime for the control of exports, transfer, brokering and transit of dual-use items. Units are subject to export control when exporting outside the European union, according to national, EU and US law (ECCN 5A002 a.1), see https://policy.trade.ec.europa.eu/help-exporters-and-importers/exporting-dual-use-items_en.
In the case of export from the country where the units were delivered by RACOM, the exporter must inform RACOM of the new country of delivery. X was under production until XII/2022

** E, P, A cellular modules were under production until XI/2021

*** C, D were under production until VIII/2023

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