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Frequently Asked Questions


Q: How do I connect GE MDS radios to my system?

A: That depends on the radio model. GE MDS radios use a variety of electrical interfaces, depending on model and application. Our point-to-point radios use EIA-530, G.703, and V.35 interfaces. Most of our MAS radios use EIA-232 (also known as "RS-232") interfaces, and TransNET offers a built-in EIA-485 option. With an external interface converter, any of our MAS radios can also be equipped with an EIA-422 interface. Regardless of model, our radios provide a DCE interface to your equipment.

MDS MAS radios connect to the external world through an RS-232 DB-25 connector. Depending on the radio type, the interface requires a three-conductor cable (RXD, TXD, Ground) or a five-conductor cable (RXD, TXD, RTS, CTS, Ground). The three-wire interface is the minimum requirement for our X810 model radios, including the 9810, and our X710A licensed radios. Other connections may be required, depending on the configuration. We also provide DSR and DCD outputs to your equipment. All of our radios ship with documentation that includes complete information on interfacing data equipment to GE MDS radios.

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Q: What is the procedure for returning GE MDS radios for service?

A: Please contact our Product Services Group at 585-241-5540 to return any product for servicing, conversions and/or upgrades. We will ask you for some information including the product type, serial number(s), nature of the return, billing address, shipping address, and purchase order (if out of warranty). You will then be assigned an SRO (Service Request Order) number. You must include this number on your shipping label or packaging when you ship the product to GE MDS. For more information, see SRO Requests.

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Q: How can our company receive training on GE MDS products?

A: Training classes are available at our facility in Rochester, New York, or classes can be scheduled to be taught at your place of business. Call our Training Coordinator at (585) 241-5510 or your Customer Service Representative at 585-242-9600 to find out about the schedule of upcoming training in house, or to get a quote for scheduling a class at your site. Training classes can be tailored to fit your maintenance needs. For more information, including a syllabus, see Product and Application Training.

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Q: Can GE MDS help design our system?

A: GE MDS offers a wide range of services, from helping you determine your communications needs to building complete turnkey systems. To get more information, contact your MDS sales representative, or contact a technical support representative to discuss technical requirements. You can call Technical Support at 585-241-5510, or by sending an e-mail to This e-mail address is being protected from spambots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it .

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Q: Where can I get licensing assistance?

A: Call Technical Support at 585-241-5510 or send an e-mail to This e-mail address is being protected from spambots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it to get the information you need to start your FCC licensing process. Licensing begins with frequency coordination, which we can offer for the 900- and 450-MHz bands. We can refer you to other US providers for other frequency bands. For more information, see FCC Licensing Assistance.

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Q: How can I order parts?

A: Call Customer Support at 585-242-8311 or e-mail us at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it to order replacement parts.

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Q: Where can I get GE MDS manuals or literature?

A: Many installation guides and product manuals can be found on-line. For more help, call Customer Support at 585-242-8311 or e-mail us at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it to receive manuals or literature.

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Q: Why do we have to specify frequencies when ordering radios?

A: Although our Point-to-Point radios are synthesized and can be programmed to any frequency in their operating band, the duplexers included with the radios need to be tuned to the frequency of operation, so we need to know your system's exact frequencies. Our Multiple Address (MAS) radios can be ordered on default frequencies within the standard 928/952-MHz MAS band, but specifying your operating frequency ensures you that your radios will be tuned for optimum performance in your radio system. All 400-MHz radio orders must specify frequencies, for two reasons: (1) These products are built in several bands, using different hardware, covering the 350 to 512 MHz range; and (2) Changing frequencies in these radios requires at least one internal adjustment. It's not necessary to specify frequencies of operation for any of our spread-spectrum radios, which include the iNET 900, TransNET 900, and 9810.

It is important to understand that some licensed radios may require minor alignment when changing frequencies or changing product options. Refer the product's Operation and Installation Manual or Service Manual for further information.

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Q: Where can we get pricing information?

A: Call your sales representative or Customer Support at 585-242-8311 or e-mail us at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it to obtain pricing.

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Q: Can GE MDS supply antennas, cable, etc.

A: GE MDS can supply everything required for your radio system installation. Contact your sales representative for more information.

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Q: Can we buy directly through GE MDS, or do we need to purchase through a supplier?

A: You can buy directly through GE MDS, with a few exceptions. If you are located in the US or Canada, you may buy direct or through a GE MDS reseller. In some countries outside the US and Canada, GE MDS sells only through resellers. Please contact your GE MDS sales representative, or send e-mail to This e-mail address is being protected from spambots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it , for specific information about your location.

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