Equipment for Microwave Link short description

  1. Indoor Unit (IDU)

    • Function: Processes baseband signals and converts them to Intermediate Frequency (IF).

    • Purpose: Acts as the central control unit for modulation/demodulation and network interfacing

  2. Outdoor Unit (ODU)

    • Function: Converts IF signals from the IDU to Radio Frequency (RF) for transmission.

    • Purpose: Mounted near the antenna to reduce signal loss and amplify RF signals

  3. Antenna

    • Function: Radiates and receives microwave signals.

    • Types:

      • Parabolic Dish Antenna (high gain for long distances).
      • Flat Panel Antenna (compact for short links).
      • Grid Antenna (lighter, used in medium-range links)
  4. IF Cable (Intermediate Frequency Cable)

    • Function: Connects the IDU to the ODU, carrying IF signals and DC power.

    • Purpose: Ensures seamless communication between indoor and outdoor units

  5. Coupler

    • Function: Splits or combines microwave signals with minimal loss.

    • Purpose: Allows signal redundancy or distribution for multiple ODUs

  6. Orthomode Transducer (OMT)

    • Function: Combines and separates signals of two polarizations (vertical and horizontal).

    • Purpose: Increases link capacity without increasing spectrum usage

  7. Waveguide

    • Function: Carries RF signals between the ODU and antenna with low signal loss.

    • Purpose: Used in high-frequency setups to maintain signal integrity

  8. Power Supply Unit (PSU)

    • Function: Provides DC power to the IDU and ODU.

    • Purpose: Ensures continuous operation of the system, often includes battery backup

  9. Alignment Tools

    • Function: Ensures precise antenna alignment for optimal signal performance.

    • Types: GPS-based tools, optical alignment scopes, signal analyzers

  10. E-Band Radio (70/80 GHz)

    • Function: Provides ultra-high-capacity short-range links.

    • Purpose: Ideal for urban backhaul and data center connections with multi-Gbps capacity

  11. Universal Backhaul Radio (UBR)

    • Function: Multi-band radio for wireless backhaul applications.

    • Purpose: Provides connectivity across various frequency bands (6–42 GHz)

  12. Network Management System (NMS)

    • Function: Software to monitor and manage the microwave link.

    • Purpose: Enables real-time performance tracking and fault detection

  13. Mounting Hardware

    • Function: Secures antennas and ODUs to towers, rooftops, or poles.

    • Types: Brackets, clamps, and mounting kits for stability and alignment

  14. Surge Protector

    • Function: Protects the microwave link equipment from lightning strikes and power surges.

    • Purpose: Ensures system safety and reliability

  15. Safety Rod

  • Installed at the highest point of the antenna structure (towers, poles, rooftops).

  • Used in microwave communication systems, especially in areas prone to thunderstorms.

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