Table of Contents
01. Introduction to QUATRA 4000e
02. Regulatory // Model Number: Cel-Fi QUATRA 4000e
03. System Overview
04. Hardware Components
05. The WAVE Portal
06. Installation
07. LEDs and Physical Indicators
08. System Commissioning and Management using WAVE Portal
09. WAVE PRO and COMPASS
10. Antenna Kitting
11. Advanced Information - Antennas and QUATRA 4000
12. Specifications
13. Trademarks
14. Warranty and Limitation of Liability
15. Compliance
16. Glossary
17. Troubleshooting
About This Guide
There are a variety of Cel-Fi QUATRA product variants available, supporting a variety of band configurations, for multiple regions. This manual is applicable to the Cel-Fi QUATRA 4000e ONLY and does not apply to any other QUATRA variants.
Safety Precautions
- Use Cel-Fi QUATRA 4000e indoors. It should not be used outdoors.
- All the requirements of the manufacturer and the referenced standards must be met.
- There are no user serviceable parts inside.
Caution: Changes or modifications to this product not expressly approved by Nextivity may void your right to operate the equipment.
01. Introduction to QUATRA 4000e
Understanding Cellular Coverage
Spotty mobile network coverage, poor voice quality, dropped calls, and dead zones continue to plague occupants in buildings of all shapes and sizes. Cel-Fi QUATRA solves that problem. It is an affordable, all-digital solution, providing uniform, high-quality mobile network signals throughout a building. Cel-Fi indoor coverage solutions are scalable to fit buildings of all sizes, approved by network operators all over the world, and guaranteed network safe.
Unlike traditional analog boosters and passive DAS technology, QUATRA delivers a mobile network signal that is up to 1000x stronger, utilizing CAT 5e (or better) cabling for the connection between the head end and each remote. The remotes are powered via Power over Ethernet (PoE), delivering an un-attenuated signal throughout the building. Cel-Fi QUATRA can be installed in just days (compared to months typical of other solutions), and at a price point that meets the middleprise budget.
The QUATRA Solution
While mobile network networks are largely deployed outside, the majority of mobile device activity takes place inside. Modern building materials, while improving energy efficiency, will block or inhibit mobile network service from the outside network. To exacerbate the issue, mobile network coverage is increasingly critical. In fact, mobile network coverage can be considered a safety or even regulatory requirement, depending on the region. Building owners need a flexible, high-quality solution. Installers and Value-Added Resellers need a product that can serve the majority of building types and not take months to deploy.
- Cel-Fi created a new solution category that combines its core technology with the architecture of an Active DAS: the carrier-grade Active DAS Hybrid.
- Integrators and Networks have partnered with Cel-Fi to deliver a smart solution designed for middleprise buildings - Cel-Fi QUATRA solutions.
- Cel-Fi provides the QUATRA BOM Estimator tool to help installers select the appropriate equipment in the right quantity, to streamline installation planning.
- Cel-Fi’s all-digital, scalable, PoE Category cable-based solution makes it ideal for Single-Network or Multi-Network environments.
Speed of Installation, higher quality in-building mobile network solutions, and cost savings – are some of the reasons building owners, facility managers, and IT professionals are making the smart investment in Cel-Fi QUATRA solutions.
A Solution Anyone Can Confidently Deploy
Cel-Fi QUATRA is designed to improve indoor signal coverage without any risk of interference on the mobile network. Cel-Fi QUATRA provides a sophisticated network-safe solution that has been rigorously tested globally, through multiple generations, engineered to deliver multiple levels of network protection:
- Uplink power control via measurement of base station coupling loss and other parameters, to prevent desensitizing the network.
- Echo-cancellation and feedback control; oscillation avoidance.
- Uplink muting: uplink is turned off when mobile devices within the coverage area are idle.
- Self-configuration and self-optimization: automatic band and channel selection based on network PLMN-ID and mobile network broadcast parameters.
- The Cel-Fi WAVE Platform cloud-based management system provides monitoring and KPI reporting.
02. Regulatory // Model Number: Cel-Fi QUATRA 4000e
The EU Declaration of conformity can be found here.
Certification
The Cel-Fi QUATRA 4000e complies with 3GPP and ETSI EN specifications and carries the CE mark. Additional certifications, type approvals, and compliances are sought, granted, and determined by country according to need. For further information, consult the Cel-Fi QUATRA 4000e legal insert here. [add hyperlink]
Bands and Technologies Supported
Cel-Fi QUATRA supports the following bands, technologies and transmit powers:
| Band | Downlink MHz | Uplink MHz | Technology/Bandwidth (max) | Uplink Transmit Power (max)* | Downlink Transmit Power (max)** |
| 1 | 2110-2170 | 1920-1980 | LTE / 20 MHz | 22 dBm | 16 dBm |
| 1 | 2110-2170 | 1920-1980 | HSPA / 20 MHz | 22 dBm | 16 dBm |
| 3 | 1805-1880 | 1710-1785 | LTE / 20 MHz | 22 dBm | 16 dBm |
| 7 | 2620-2690 | 2500-2570 | LTE / 20 MHz | 22 dBm | 16 dBm |
| 8 | 925-960 | 880-915 | HSPA / 15 MHz | 20 dBm | 16 dBm |
| 8 | 925-960 | 880-915 | LTE / 20 MHz | 20 dBm | 16 dBm |
| 20 | 791-821 | 832-862 | LTE / 20 MHz | 20 dBm | 16 dBm |
| 40 | 2300-2390 | 2300-2390 | TDD LTE / 20 MHz | 22 dBm | 16 dBm |
(*) Power measured at the NU donor port, per radio.
(**) Power measured at CU server port, per radio.
How Does It Work?
Cel-Fi QUATRA 4000e is a powerful mobile network signal distribution solution. Cel-Fi QUATRA 4000e is fundamentally comprised of a Network Unit (NU) and up to six (6) Coverage Units (per NU). The Network Unit takes the donor input from up to four (4) mobile network signal sources. The signal source can be off-air from the macro network or delivered via a small cell.
The NU receives and individually processes channels from each mobile network, allowing a higher gain for weaker channels (up to 100 dB). The channels are digitized and sent over a pair of Ethernet cables to each CU for retransmission through one or more service antennas.
The system may also be used with one QUATRA 4000e FIBER HUB, which functions much like an additional NU with up to six (6) additional CUs. The HUB is connected to the NU using SFP+ Modules (sold separately) and multi-mode or single-mode fiber, with a maximum optical cable length of 2km.
Architecture Overview
Real World Examples
1. Off Air Install, 7,500 m2 building
In this example, Cel-Fi QUATRA is providing mobile network coverage for four networks in a six story 7,500 m2 building. Individual LPDA antennas are installed outside the building and pointed to ensure the best signal-to-noise ratio for each network. Four 50 Ohm coaxial cables of suitable rating are run from outside, penetrating the building shell, going to the location of the network unit. The donor antenna installation and 50 Ohm coaxial cable run must meet any requirements for lightning protection, weather proofing, fire breaks, and relevant building regulations. A Coverage Unit is placed on each floor, and a small distributed antenna system (DAS) field is run out from each CU to provide coverage.
2. Supercell Install, 30,000 m2 building
This building did not have adequate donor signals for the four mobile network operators, so small cells were chosen as the signal sources, in cooperation with the respective network operators. The system is comprised of four (4) QUATRA 4000e systems served with one small cell from each mobile network operator. The small cell signals are split and input to each QUATRA 4000e NU. From the QUATRA 4000e NU, the signals are distributed to CUs on each floor and then horizontally to a short passive DAS, providing coverage to the building.
3. Hybrid Install, Off-Air + Small Cell
In this example, the building site has excellent (exterior) network service for two mobile networks, but the other two networks’ donor signals are very poor. The System Integrator has decided to use a hybrid approach, taking off-air signals from the two networks with good service and deploying small cells for the two remaining networks.
Cel-Fi QUATRA 4000e Key Features
- Carrier Grade, Smart Signal Booster
- Relays two (2) bands per network, simultaneously
- Independent donor ports for each network allows for independent antenna optimization
- Single combined (CU) server port enables driving either a server antenna or passive DAS
- 100 dB max system gain
- 140MHz total relay bandwidth
- Support for up to six (6) CUs (twelve with QUATRA 4000e Fiber Hub)
- 4.3-10 RF connectors (donor and server)
- Internal modem for remote management (SIM slot access)
- Industrial aluminum powder-coated housing
- Up to 100m cable distance between NU and CU (using Cat5e), or 150m using 22/23AWG CAT6/7
- QUATRA Range Extender (QRE) doubles CU cable length (up to 300m)
- 20-22 dBm uplink power per operator per band
- 16 dBm downlink power per operator per band
Cel-Fi QUATRA 4000e Service Agreement
- Every NU is bundled with a 1-year product Service Agreement
- The Service Agreement may be renewed on an annual basis
- Upon request once the system installation is complete, Nextivity will review key system KPIs and provide feedback on the installation.
Learn more about our Service Agreement.
Cel-Fi QUATRA 4000e is a modular solution with two (2) foundational components: The Network Unit (NU) and the Coverage Unit (CU). In traditional DAS terminology these could be known as the Head End and the Remote Unit, respectively.
Power is provided to the entire system through AC power at the NU. The CUs are powered via Power over Ethernet (PoE), and therefore do not require a separate power source at their locations. Signal sources are brought into the system at the NU, via a wired connection, like a small cell, or through a donor antenna and an RF connection.
Network Unit (NU)
The Network Unit, referred to as the NU, is the head end for the QUATRA 4000e system. The signal sources (one for each port) are connected to the NU. Then they are digitized and distributed over two Category “Ethernet” cables to each Coverage Unit (CU).
QUATRA 4000e Network Unit
Note: Only mobile network signals may be connected to the donor ports. Other types of radio signals will not work and may damage the system.
The NU has four (4) 4.3-10 RF ports on the top. Each RF port is assigned to a network, either via the Cel-Fi COMPASS device and Cel-Fi WAVE PRO mobile app, or via the Cel-Fi WAVE Portal management system.
There are two (2) SMA-female ports on the top of the NU. One functions as the external antenna connection for the unit’s internal mobile network modem, and the other is for GPS. (The GPS port is for future functionality.)
Power
- AC Power Supply (inside the NU)
- AC power cord
Physical Interface
- RJ45 ports (13)
- Twelve RJ45 ports (2 for each of the 6 CUs)
- One LAN port for remote management
- SFP+ module dock (for use with a Fiber HUB)
- 4.3-10 Female RF Ports (4) for Donor Antennas
- Each port maps to 2 radios
- Each port can have a network assigned dynamically to it
- The same network can be assigned to multiple ports (e.g. by assigning 2 ports to the same network, you can relay 4 bands on that network)
- SMA ports, one for the internal LTE modem and one for GPS (not currently functional)
User Interface
- LED interface (front) to indicate system status. (For detail on the LED go to LEDs.)
- Power
- CU1
- CU2
- CU3
- CU4
- CU5
- CU6
- SFP+
- LAN
- MODEM
Power Supply Cable
A power cord with the correct mains plug for the region is supplied with the unit.
Coverage Unit (CU)
The Coverage Unit (CU) receives the digitized downlink mobile network signal from the NU, converts it back to RF, amplifies, and distributes the service from the CU RF port. Likewise, the CU receives RF uplink signals from mobile devices in its coverage area. Service can be deployed through a single antenna connected to the CU, or through a passive Distributed Antenna System (DAS).
QUATRA 4000 Coverage Unit
The Coverage Unit includes a multi-band blade style antenna that can be connected directly to the CU.
Cel-Fi Blade Antenna
The blade antenna has an N connector; the CU comes with an N to 4.3-10 adapter, so you can directly connect it to the CU antenna port.
Accessories
QUATRA 4000e FIBER HUB
Model Number: Q40-E999FNU
The HUB functions much like an NU, except it does not have donor antenna or management ports. It connects to an NU over optical fiber cable, adding up to six more CUs to an NU (twelve CUs total). To allow flexibility in the fiber connection, the HUB (and QUATRA 4000e NU) have an SFP+ module expansion slot. This allows the use of 3rd party SFP+ modules for multi-mode fiber (tens or hundreds of meter distance) or of 3rd party SFP+ modules for single-mode fiber (up to 2km distance – the 2km limit is a Cel-Fi imposed limit, not a limit relating to single mode fiber itself).
QUATRA 4000 FIBER HUB
QUATRA 4000e Range Extender (QRE4K)
Model Number: Q40-OE
The QRE-4K unit is a device that extends the standard 100-meter cable length from NU to CU up to 200 meters with Cat5e, or up to 300m if CAT6/7, 23AWG cable is used. It is inserted in-line between the NU and CU and requires no external power. The RJ45 connectors are on each side (two per side). Traditional Ethernet extenders will not work with QUATRA.
Donor Antennas
The donor antennas are used to provide off-air signals to individual donor ports. The objective is to provide the best quality network operator signals to the NU. A variety of donor antennas are available from Nextivity. The right donor antenna choice can make the difference between a good outcome and a great outcome. Please refer to other antenna-specific documents for choosing the right donor antenna.
Cel-Fi LPDA-R Antenna
Model Number: A62-V44-200
Cel-Fi LPDA-R Antenna
Nextivity recommends its LPDA-R antenna for use as a great donor antenna for most situations. Learn more about our Antenna options.
Server Antenna
The server antenna connects to the RF port on the CU.
Server Antenna port
Cel-Fi Low Profile SISO Indoor Omni Antenna
Model Number: A11-H43-201
Cel-Fi LP SISO Indoor Omni Antenna
Nextivity recommends the Cel-Fi Low Profile SISO Indoor Omni Antenna for use as the server antenna, which provides a 360-degree horizontal coverage pattern in an ultra-modern, low-profile, high performance industrial design.
Other server antennas are available from Nextivity. Visit the Antenna Product page for details and updates.
Couplers
RF couplers or tappers may be used with Coverage Units when multiple service antennas are desired. Careful system design should be implemented to insure sufficient power levels into all antennas.
Introduction
Cel-Fi WAVE is Nextivity’s SOC2 Type 1 compliant cloud-based software platform from which Cel-Fi apps and connected capabilities are hosted and driven. Current-generation Cel-Fi products feature embedded connectivity that allows them to connect to the WAVE cloud. The WAVE portal and apps are used to facilitate software updates, registration, commissioning, installation, optimization, and troubleshooting. The Cel-Fi WAVE platform continues to expand in features and function.
In order to use the WAVE portal and related capabilities, you must be registered with the system. To request access to the WAVE portal go to: cel-fi.com/account-request
Once you are registered, the URL for the WAVE portal is: wave.cel-fi.com
Alarms, Alerts, and Policies
Cel-Fi systems support a variety of standard alarm conditions.
Use the Notifications page in the WAVE portal to view a listing of notifications (alerts) sent to inform specified users of alarm conditions occurring in installed systems, or assets within systems. You can access and view Notification Detail by double-clicking a displayed notification.
The Main Alarms
| Error Indication | Name | Meaning |
| ES1 | NU HW | Network Unit hardware error |
| ES2 | Not Receiving Signal | Insufficient donor Signal |
| ES3 | CU HW | Coverage Unit hardware error |
| ES4 | Input too strong | Donor signal (RSRP) too strong |
| ES5 | NU Overheating | Network Unit is overheating |
| ES6 | CU Overheating | Coverage Unit is overheating |
| ES7 | Too Close | Not applicable for QUATRA |
| ES8 | Too Far | Not applicable for QUATRA |
| ES9 | Disabled by operator | Not applicable for QUATRA |
| ES10 | Location Lock | Not applicable for QUATRA |
| ES11 | New Registration Required | Not applicable for QUATRA |
| ES12 | Self-Test Failed | System self-test has failed |
| Ethernet Link Error | An error has been detected in the link between the NU and CU | |
| CU Shutdown from Portal | A CU has been shut down remotely from the WAVE portal |
User Profiles
User profiles are created in the Wave Portal. User Profile is where individual account information is stored, as well as any Group assignments.
Important: Before any permanent installation, make sure all the components are planned and accounted for, as well as any wiring, cabling, power, mounting, antenna placements, and system access.
Overview
Several things need to be determined as part of installation planning and preparation.
- Perform indoor and outdoor signal surveys to understand current signal problems and to assess candidate donor antenna locations
- Determine where the NU(s) will be mounted
- Ensure adequate power source (outlet)
- Determine donor signal sources and cabling/routing
- Ensure access to the Category cable runs, connecting to the CU(s)
- Determine where the CU(s) will be mounted and how coverage is to be distributed
- Determine if the (included) Blade Antenna will be used, or a server antenna cabled with 50 Ohm coaxial cable, or multiple server antennas connected using 50 Ohm coaxial cable and passive RF devices (a passive DAS), for each CU
- Determine how the CUs will be mounted (using the provided mounting bracket, or other mounting structures such as Unistrut hardware
Note: IBWAVE (or other RF planning tools) may be used but are not mandated. The QUATRA BOM Estimator will help you to calculate the amount of QUATRA 4000e equipment you are likely to need.
Installing the NU
Mounting
The Cel-Fi QUATRA 4000e NU is designed for simple wall mounting, using the supplied wall anchors and screws. The NU may also be cabinet / rack-mounted, typically in a standard 19” rack.
Equipment Required for Mounting
- Drill
- Drill bit extender
- Hammer
- Pencil or other similar marker
- Level
Caution: Make sure the area behind any surface is free of electrical wires or other dangerous elements prior to drilling.
The QUATRA 4000e NU has four (4) secure mounting tabs; two on each side. The two topmost tabs have been keyholed, allowing the weight of the unit to rest on the top screws if installed first.
Note: The Mounting Instructions below use the standard drywall mounting anchors and screws included with the unit. If the NU is to be mounted onto other surfaces, make sure the appropriate anchors and screws are used (not included).
1. To mount the NU, first determine the approximate location on the wall for the unit.
2. Hold the unit level against the wall, and using a pencil or similar marker, mark all four anchor points.
3. Drill the holes for the anchors.
4. Hammer in the anchors.
5. Partially screw in the top two screws.
6. Hang the unit from the top two screws, through the eyeholes.
7. Screw in the bottom two screws and ensure all four screws are snug (do not over-tighten).
8. Mounting is complete.
Equipment Required for Cabinet / Rack Mounting
The two options for cabinet / rack mounting are:
- Horizontal mounting on a slotted shelf (shelf must be slotted for ventilation).
- Vertical mounting on rack rails (requires additional rack mounting extensions, not supplied by Nextivity)
Horizontal mounting can be done using a cantilever shelf attached to the front of a rack, or a shelf attached to the rails at the front and back of a rack. In either case to meet the thermal requirements of the QUATRA 4000e, the shelf must have open slots to allow proper air flow over the cooling fins on the back of the unit.
Example 19” rack shelf with ventilation slots
Note that due to the width of the NU, cantilever shelves should be used ‘upside down’
The QUATRA 4000e NU is slightly too small to directly mount vertically into a 19” rack. Should you wish to mount vertically, then additional brackets must be fabricated or obtained for that purpose (such brackets are not supplied by Nextivity).
Connecting Donor Sources
The QUATRA 4000e has four independent RF ports for connecting the donor signal. Each port:
- Is a 4.3-10 female connector
- Is specific to one network operator
- Is designed to support a variety of band configurations
Donor Port to Network Assignment
The QUATRA 4000e NU has 4 donor ports and 8 radios. Each donor port maps to 2 radios and must be assigned to a specific network. More than one donor port can be assigned to the same network.
Donor port to radio mapping
4 networks, one network per donor port, 2 bands per network
3 networks, Operator 1 has 4 bands, Operators 2 & 3 have 2 bands each
2 networks, 4 bands per network
Band Combinations
Across the two radios attached to each donor port, most 2-band combinations of bands 1, 3, 7, 8 & 20 can be supported. In addition, donor port A can have one radio on band 40, TDD, if required.
Channel Bandwidth Restrictions
Donor ports A and D can support channels up to 20 MHz wide on each radio, however, donor ports B and C have a bandwidth restriction: For ports B and C, one radio can be up to 20MHz wide and the other is restricted to 10MHz maximum, therefore depending on the available spectrum for the network and bands that you plan to use, choose the donor port so that relayed channels of 5MHz or 10MHz are used on ports B and C.
| Donor port | Radio bandwidths supported |
|
Donor port A |
20 MHz + 20 MHz |
|
Donor port B |
20 MHz + 10 MHz |
|
Donor port C |
20 MHz + 10 MHz |
|
Donor port D |
20 MHz + 20 MHz |
Donor Signal Source
Each RF port can be fed by a donor signal consisting of either a small cell or an antenna.
Note: Small cell inputs and off-air inputs can be used in the same system, but not for the same donor port or mobile network operator.
Donor Antenna
The donor antenna is used to collect the donor signal from the external (over-the-air) mobile network. Better donor signals lead to better customer experiences, improved voice quality and faster data throughput. A signal-to-noise ratio (SiNR) of > 0 dB is strongly recommended for each mobile network source signal. Better SiNR leads to better throughput.
Each donor antenna should be mounted safely and securely where it can see a good donor signal. A coaxial cable connects the donor antenna to the NU’s RF port.
Small Cell Donor
If a small cell is connected to a donor port, it must be properly attenuated to prevent damage to the NU. Attenuate the small cell signal level (RSSI) so the RSSI into the NU donor port is between -60 and -50 dBm. This will most likely require substantial RF power attenuation (typically 60-80 dB).
Note: the small cell should be fully operational in standalone mode prior to being connected to the QUATRA 4000e.
Note: small cells are not available as signal sources in many markets.
Power
The QUATRA 4000e system is powered from the Network Unit (NU). The NU comes with a power cord that plugs in to the bottom of the unit. Coverage Units receive signal and power from the Ethernet cables that connect them to the NU.
The entire system should be installed before the system is powered-on.
Note: It is recommended to zip-tie or otherwise secure the power cord once the system is powered-up, to prevent accidental unplugging.
Installing a CU
Wall Mounting
The Coverage Unit (CU) comes with a wall mounting bracket. To mount the QUATRA 4000e CU simply follow these steps:
1. Determine mounting location. Note: Whenever mounting any Cel-Fi gear on a wall or ceiling make sure the area is free of any dangerous electrical wires, other safety hazards, or any other objects that could be damaged or affect the quality or stability of the mounted unit.
2. Position the QUATRA 4000e CU wall mount on the wall in the desired mounting location.
3. Holding the mounting bracket in place, mark hole locations with a pencil.
4. Drill the holes.
5. Hammer in the anchors.
6. Attach the bracket to the wall with the included screws.
7. Once the bracket is firmly attached to the wall, the CU can be attached to the bracket.
8. With the bracket in place, attach the CU.
9. Tighten (finger) each Locking Screw into place to ensure the CU is securely attached. The CU may also be mounted to many surfaces with appropriate Unistrut hardware.
Connecting Server Antenna(s)
The CU has an 4.3-10 RF connector on the top of the unit for attaching an antenna. An Omni-directional antenna is included with each CU (using the included N-to 4.3-10 adapter), or a coaxial cable can be connected with a series of passive antennas.
Connecting Server Antenna or Cable
Typical CU and Server Antenna Installation
Cabinet / Rack Mounting
Horizontal mounting can be done using a cantilever shelf attached to the front of a rack, or a shelf attached to the rails at the front and back of a rack. In either case, to meet the thermal requirements of the QUATRA 4000e, the shelf must have open slots to allow ventilation to get to the underside of the unit.
Example 19” rack shelf with ventilation slots
Connecting NU and CU
Each CU connects to the NU using two Ethernet cables (Cat5e or better).
CU port assignment on the NU
Using a QRE
If cable distances greater than 100 meters from NU to CU are required (150m if using 22/23 AWG CAT6/7 cable), a QUATRA RANGE EXTENDER (QRE-4K) may be used in the middle of the cable run to achieve lengths up to 300m.
Note: Only the QUATRA 4000e RANGE EXTENDER (QRE-4K) may be used. The QUATRA 1000 and QUATRA 2000 QRE is not compatible with the QUATRA 4000e.
07. LEDs and Physical Indicators
NU
The QUATRA 4000e NU has ten (10) LEDs on the front of the unit:
NU LEDs
The LEDs on the front of the QUATRA 4000e function as follows:
| LED Label | LED State | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| POWER | NO LIGHT | No power |
| SOLID GREEN | Powered and operating normally | |
| FLASHING GREEN | Scanning to acquire network signals | |
| SOLID RED | Hardware error | |
| FLASHING RED | Error | |
| CU1, CU2, CU3, CU4, CU5, CU6 | NO LIGHT | Not connected properly, no power |
| SOLID GREEN | Connected, powered and operating normally | |
| SFP+ | SOLID GREEN | SFP+ module installed, and communicating properly |
| FLASHING GREEN | SFP+ module installed, not communicating | |
| LAN | SOLID GREEN | Link is up |
| FLASHING GREEN | Link is up and active | |
| MODEM | SOLID GREEN | Modem is installed, connected, and has an IP address |
| FLASHING GREEN | Modem is attempting to connect | |
| FLASHING RED | Modem error |
CU
Each QUATRA 4000e CU has three (3) LEDs on the front of the unit.
CU LEDs
The meaning for each LED on the CU is shown in the table below.
| LED Label | LED State | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| POWER | NO LIGHT | No power |
| SOLID GREEN | Powered and operating normally | |
| FLASHING GREEN | Network scanning | |
| SOLID RED | Hardware error | |
| FLASHING RED | Error | |
| NU LINK | NO LIGHT | Logical Link: Down |
| SOLID GREEN | Logical Link: Up | |
| CABLE LINK | NO LIGHT | Physical Link: Down |
| SOLID GREEN | Physical Link: Up |
08. System Commissioning & Management using WAVE Portal
The Cel-Fi WAVE Portal is the user interface of Nextivity’s cloud-based management system, which has the following architecture:
All the current generation of Cel-Fi devices have some form of connection into the WAVE Cloud.
The Cel-Fi QUATRA 4000e has 2 alternative means of connecting to the cloud for management and control:
- Via the internal cellular modem
- Via the “LAN” management Ethernet port
Modem Connectivity
The system is supplied with a (factory installed) international roaming SIM card which works in all countries where the QUATRA 4000e is deployed. The Support contract for QUATRA 4000e units includes one year of cloud connectivity using this SIM card. To use the modem capabilities, an antenna must be connected to the leftmost SMA-F port on the top of the QUATRA 4000e NU, which can see coverage from one or more mobile networks (ideally all networks) in the country that the unit is deployed in.
Other than providing an antenna that gets a signal, no other configuration is needed to get cloud access via the embedded modem.
LAN Port Connectivity
If LAN connectivity is available, then the LAN port can be used to connect the QUATRA 4000e NU to the cloud for management purposes. The LAN must support the following capabilities:
- DHCP server on the standard port (UDP port 67)
- IP address, DNS and default route assignment via DHCP
The connectivity via the default route must support:
- DNS on port 53
- Connectivity to Nextivity NTP Server (UDP port 123)
- Connection to ntp.cel-fi.com (static IP: 65.79.177.238)
- Connectivity to Microsoft Azure web services (HTTP service, TCP port 80 and TLS service, TCP port 443) accessed through via well-known DNS names:
- iot.cel-fi.com
- NextivityIoTHubQA.azure-devices.net
- nextivitytime.azurewebsites.net
- Alternatively, download the .json file
Then look for the address ranges specified in the groups AppService.EastUS and AzureIoTHub.EastUS and add these to your firewall as permissible addresses for HTTP and HTTPS outgoing connections. These look like this:
"name": "AzureIoTHub.EastUS",
"id": "AzureIoTHub.EastUS",
"properties": {
"changeNumber": 1,
"region": "eastus",
"platform": "Azure",
"systemService": "AzureIoTHub",
"addressPrefixes": [
"40.71.14.128/25",
"40.76.71.185/32",
"40.78.229.128/25",
"40.79.156.128/25",
"40.114.53.146/32",
"52.168.180.95/32",
"137.117.83.38/32",
"168.61.54.255/32"
System Commissioning and Management
Introduction
Commissioning and management require pre-arranged logins for your organization in the WAVE Portal. Access to the WAVE Portal require the completion of Nextivity training and the passing of the exam.
Commissioning
Log into the WAVE Portal using your pre-arranged management credentials, then request access to the unit serial number via Access->Options->Request Access
Enter the NU serial number and the Nextivity P/N from the label on the box the device comes in. Access granting should be instant.
After physical installation of the system, and installation / configuration for the management connection as described above, power up the device and wait a few minutes for the device to synchronize to the cloud. After that, go to the WAVE Portal dashboard and the device should appear under New Systems.
Select the entry in New Systems for the QUATRA 4000e NU serial number. You will then be prompted to enter site information, or select an existing site to add the QUATRA 4000e to:
Once the site is set-up or selected, the system will be commissioned.
Next, configure the networks to ports in the system under Options->Settings
For each of the ports, select a network, then press update:
Viewing the QUATRA 4000e Parameters
Select the QUATRA 4000e NU at the system level to view the donor signal parameters:
The tabs along the top select the donor port / network:
Scroll down to see the CU parameters:
Selecting the Network Status Ethernet port icon displays the length of the CU cable runs:
Introduction
Cel-Fi COMPASS is a hand-held battery-operated device specifically designed to simplify the installation of all QUATRA variants. Control of the COMPASS unit is through the WAVE PRO app (available in Google Play or the Apple App Store).
Note: The WAVE Portal is a very powerful and time-saving system. Nextivity highly recommends that you still connect your QUATRA systems to the Internet for WAVE Portal remote management, alarms, and diagnostics.
Note: COMPASS information included here relates specifically to the QUATRA 4000e. Additional information may be relevant to other Cel-Fi models.
QR Code for WAVE PRO
Cel-Fi QUATRA Installation Features
Overview
Where a QUATRA 4000e system has no Internet connection, COMPASS plus the WAVE PRO mobile app can be used to perform limited local QUATRA 4000e management actions, labeled ‘Installation’ actions. In this case:
Updating QUATRA 4000 firmware can be accomplished in either of two ways:
- The COMPASS unit is connected to the QUATRA 4000e NU using a USB-A to micro-USB cable
- The WAVE PRO mobile app is installed and running on a mobile device and connected to COMPASS using Bluetooth
- The mobile device running the WAVE PRO app has an Internet connection
COMPASS connected to Cel-Fi QUATRA 4000e
When connected in this way, the following actions are available on the WAVE PRO app:
Some of these options are described in more detail below.
Updating QUATRA Software
Updating QUATRA 4000e firmware can be accomplished using COMPASS and the WAVE PRO mobile app as follows:
- Update the COMPASS software cache by connecting it to an active Internet connection via its Ethernet port
- Connect COMPASS to the QUATRA 4000e NU with USB then select the ‘Software Update’ option
Donor Port Network Setting
Map a donor port to network profile in the following way:
- Select the ‘Operator Settings’ option
- For each donor port (A, B, C, D) select a network profile to use with that port
Band Settings
Change band settings, for the network assigned to each donor port in the following way:
- Select the ‘Band Settings’ option
Select the port you want to control to reveal a list of available bands:
- Deselect any bands you do not want to use for that network on that port, then press ‘Update’.
- Where the same network is configured for multiple donor ports, you can use this feature to relay different bands on different ports for that network.
Cel-Fi QUATRA Optimization Features
Antenna Positioning
The QUATRA 4000e system can accept up to four separate donor signal inputs. Each donor can be established to the system either via small cell or off-air antennas. When using an off-air signal, a directional antenna is recommended to provide the best signal quality. (Nextivity offers a number of directional antennas that can be used. See www.cel-fi.com/products for details.)
The Antenna Pointing feature allows you to easily determine the direction your external antenna should be pointed. The algorithm takes into account the system gain and radio environment (including signal strength, signal quality, and pilot pollution) for the 4G signals.
This feature is designed to work with the Cel-Fi Mount, which is an indoor/outdoor mount with a proprietary 8-position dial base. This dial enables the antenna to be rotated in 45-degree increments.
- Make sure the Cel-Fi COMPASS is connected to the donor antenna using the (included) RP-SMA to N adaptor cable.
- The SIM card in COMPASS must be removed when using this feature.
- Click on “Antenna Positioning” in the WAVE PRO app.
- Rotate your antenna to a position on the dial mount and tap the corresponding number button. You will need to test 2 or more positions to see results.
- For each 4G band per network operator, the app displays position information on donor signal quality.
- Current test results may be exported as a .csv file using the Options menu.
Signal Report
A Full Signal Report scans all bands and channels for each carrier and returns a list of the channels it finds with RF metrics.
- The SIM card in COMPASS must be removed when using this feature.
- Go to the optimization section in the WAVE PRO app and click on “Full Signal Report”.
- Press the "Start Test" button to begin measuring.
- Current scan results may be exported as a .csv file using the Options menu.
The QUATRA 4000e is designed to be used with the following antennas.
Donor Antennas
1. LPDA-R Antenna
Model Number: A62-V44-200
The Cel-Fi LPDA-R Antenna offers a powerful 12 to 14 dBi gain (depending on frequency band) in the range 617–4000 MHz and is designed to reduce out-of-band noise, to improve SINR and overall signal quality. Mounting is made simple with included U-Bolts. This Cel-Fi product also features a 10K ohm resistor that enables the antenna connection to be validated by Cel-Fi Network Units equipped with the capability.
- 12–14 dBi gain
- 5G-ready
- Narrow beam-width to reduce noise
- Rugged construction for harsh environments
- Includes a 10K ohm resistor for special Cel-Fi applications
2. Cel-Fi Wideband Directional Antenna
Model Number: A32-V32-101
The Cel-Fi Wideband Directional Antenna is an outdoor vertically polarized highly directional antenna for Mobile network Boosters; with 10 dB gain in the low bands and 11 dB gain in the high bands. The weather resistant housing is built with UV stabilized ABS plastic casing. Optimized for Cel-Fi products, the Cel-Fi Wideband Directional Antenna works great with the Cel-Fi WAVE Antenna positioning app. The unit includes standard brackets for mounting and can also be used with the Cel-Fi Pole Mount.
- Boosts Cell Signal by up to 11 dBi
- 5G-ready
- 700 – 2700 MHz Frequency
- Vertical Polarization
- Uni-Directional
Server Antennas
1. Indoor Omni Antenna
Model Number: A11-V43-100/101
The Indoor Omni Antenna receives and transmits signal in a 360° pattern and are compatible with the 698 - 2700 MHz frequency ranges that include 3G and 4G signals. They come with an SMA Male Connector.
- 3G/4G/LTE wideband cellular antenna
- SMA-male connector
- Omni-directional
Note: -101 part number includes an N-type connector
2. (Low-Profile) LP SISO Indoor Omni Antenna
Model Number: A11-H43-201
Nextivity’s Cel-Fi LP SISO Indoor Omni Antenna provides a 360-degree horizontal coverage pattern in an ultra-modern, low-profile, high performance industrial design.
- Indoor use
- 5G-ready
- SISO
- 50 ohm
- 617–4000 MHz
- N-type connector (other options available)
- Ultra low-profile
11. Advanced Information - Antennas and QUATRA 4000e
Donor Antennas
Donor Signals
A good donor signal, arriving as cleanly as possible to the NU, is perhaps the most important consideration in driving the best experiences and outcomes with QUATRA 4000e.
With regard to 4G LTE, there are two metrics of particular importance to monitor and optimize:
- RSRP. Reference Signal Receive Power. It is the power of the LTE Reference Signal. A minimum of -20 dB SINR (of the S-Synch channel) is needed to detect RSRP/RSRQ. In the context of Cel-Fi QUATRA 4000e, the following stratification of quality is recognized:
- SINR. Signal to Noise Ratio. The SINR is the ratio of the usable (desired) signal over the noise. The following metrics should be used when assessing SINR in the context of Cel-Fi QUATRA 4000e.
Antenna Selection
There are a few considerations to make when determining the donor antenna.
- Mount the donor antenna where measurements indicate the best signal and signal quality for the intended operator.
- Select the best antenna for the application. Rooftop antennas generally benefit from high gain narrow beam antennas. These antennas improve SINR (signal quality). However, many visible cell sites may result in poor signal quality from the roof, and a smaller panel antenna closer to the street level may provide the best signal. For best results, test multiple candidate locations for each operator.
- For rural applications where weak signals are present, use a higher gain antenna at the highest possible elevation.
- For more information on Donor antennas and placement, watch this video.
Grounding and Lightning Protection
Installers of Cel-Fi QUATRA 4000e are encouraged to follow the lightning protection guidelines documented in the National Electrical Code (NEC) and NFPA 780, and/or local codes.
Server Antennas
The QUATRA 4000e Coverage Unit has a single RF output port in the form of a 4.3-10 female connector on the top of the unit. A single whip or blade-style antenna can be attached directly, or a passive distributed antenna system (DAS) can be deployed.
Antenna Selection
There are two types of indoor antenna to choose from:
Omni-directional dome antennas broadcast and receive signals from all sides. They are designed for central locations with 360º coverage requirement. Like outdoor antennas, their power is measured by their “gain”. They are typically mounted to a ceiling for best results.
Nextivity has standard dome antennas and also offers ‘low-profile’ server antennas that are thin and occupy less visual space.
Panel antennas are directional antennas. They have a wider beam and are less bulky than other directional antennas. Some potential use cases are:
- Mounted on a ceiling at the top of a stairwell, pointing down the stairs.
- Mounted on a wall at one end of a long corridor or side of a warehouse, pointing into the space to be covered.
MIMO vs SISO
MIMO (multiple in, multiple out) antennas have multiple feeds and typically more than one coaxial (pigtail) cable or connector. Therefore, a MIMO antenna should only be used with a system that supports MIMO. (Cel-Fi QUATRA 1000 supports MIMO.)
A SISO (single in, single out) antenna has a single coaxial (pigtail) cable feed and/or connector, and works best with SISO systems. Cel-Fi QUATRA 4000e is a SISO system.
Mounting (Coverage Unit)
Drop Ceiling
The QUATRA 4000 Coverage Unit is fitted with two ¼”-20 inserts in the center of the bottom side of the unit. This is designed to mate perfectly with standard drop-ceiling infrastructure components. The mounting bracket also has four (4) ¼”-20 threaded inserts which can be similarly used. A variety of mounting methods can be employed through the integration of off-the-shelf accessories.
Note: The Cel-Fi QUATRA 4000 Coverage Unit is plenum rated.
For details, please refer to the Cel-Fi QUATRA 4000e Data Sheet
Cel-Fi, IntelliBoost, and Nextivity logo are trademarks of Nextivity, Inc.
14. Warranty & Limitation of Liability
Nextivity Inc., provides a limited warranty for its products.
For details, please refer to cel-fi.com/warranty.
In no event shall Nextivity, nor its directors, employees, agents, suppliers or End Users, be liable under contract, tort, strict liability, negligence or any other legal or equitable theory with respect to the Products or any other subject matter of this Agreement (i) for any lost profit, cost of procurement of substitute goods or services, or special, indirect, incidental, punitive, or consequential damages of any kind whatsoever or (ii) for any direct damages in excess of (in the aggregate) the fees actually received by Nextivity from End User with respect to the Products actually purchased and paid for.
EU and other declarations of conformity are available at cel-fi.com/DoC
In the event of a regulatory compliance issue, please contact Nextivity Inc. directly.
| Term | Definition |
|---|---|
| MIMO | Multiple In, Multiple Out |
| SISO | Single In, Single Out |
| SiNR | Single to Noise ratio |
| RSRP | Reference Signal Receive Power |
| RSSI | Received Signal Strength Indicator |
| Donor Antenna | Antenna used to capture the exterior macro cellular network signal, and provide such signal to the system. |
| Server Antenna | Antenna used internally to provide the coverage benefit from Cel-Fi QUATRA 4000. |
| Alarm Error | Description |
|---|---|
| Network Unit Hardware Error | Power cycle the Network Unit (NU) and check for software updates. If problem persists, return NU for service. |
| Insufficient Donor Signal | Relocate Network Unit (NU) where a stronger signal exists, or use an external antenna for the NU. If using a small cell, verify the small cell can process calls and check the connections to the NU. Power cycle the NU. |
| Coverage Unit Hardware Error | Troubleshoot any Network Unit (NU) error first, and check for software updates. Make sure Coverage Unit (CU) cables do not exceed recommended cable length maximums. Note that standard Ethernet Extenders or active LAN switches and routers will not work with CU cabling. Power cycle the CU by detaching and reattaching the LAN cable. Test CU by plugging it into back of NU with short test cable. |
| Donor Signal Too Strong | Move Network Unit (NU), or re-aim NU external antenna. Strong signal source may be from another Operator's device (cell tower, local small cell, or booster). |
| Network Unit is Overheating | The Network Unit (NU) should be upright and the air vents not blocked. Move NU to a cooler area. |
| Coverage Unit is Overheating | Make sure the Coverage Unit (CU) air vents are not blocked, or move the CU to a cooler location. |
| Too Close | One of your Coverage Units (CU) is too close to your Network Unit (NU). Try moving the units farther apart (or move units so more signal blocking structures isolate them from each other). |
| Too Far | One of your Coverage Units (CU) is too far from your Network Unit (NU). Try moving the units closer together. |
| Disabled by Operator/Vendor | Your system has been disabled by the mobile network operator or vendor. Contact your vendor for further assistance. |
| Location Lock | Your system has been moved from its original address. Please move the system back to its original location or register your new address with your wireless provider. |
| Registration Required | Systems are pre-enabled and carrier registration is obligatory. |
| Self-Test Failed | Power cycle the unit and check for software updates. If problem persists, return the unit for service. |
| Small Cell Not Detected | Network Unit (NU) Mode is set to small cell. Verify that small cell is connected and operational, or set NU Mode to Internal or External Antenna if no Small Cell used. |
| Small Cell Detected | Small Cell Detected but Network Unit (NU) is not set to Small Cell. Use the WAVE Portal to set NU Mode to Small Cell. |
| Antenna Configuration Error | Too Many Coverage Units (CU) connected. More than one CU in use for Off-Air configuration. Use the WAVE Portal to set Mode to External Antenna, and NU should be connected to an external antenna. |
| Antenna Positioning Required | Antenna positioning incomplete. Use the WAVE Portal to aim the NU donor antenna. |
| Ethernet Link Error | The ethernet link between NU and CU is behaving unreliably or reporting an error. Ensure the ethernet cable is not damaged and its connectors are securely plugged in on both ends. |
| CU Shutdown from Portal | CU's 1 though 4 has been shut down from the Portal. |