TEST REPORT

FCC ID: R7PEC2R1S4

Test Report

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FCCID_771161

Table of Contents
1.0 General 3
1.1 Purpose 3
1.2 Product Description 3
1.2.1 General 3
1.2.2 Intended Use 3
1.3 Test Methodology and Considerations 3
2.0 Test Facilities 4
2.1 Location 4
2.2 Laboratory Accreditations/Recognitions/Certifications 4
2.3 Radiated Emissions Test Site Description 5
2.3.1 Semi-Anechoic Chamber Test Site 5
2.3.2 Open Area Tests Site (OATS) 6
2.4 Conducted Emissions Test Site Description 7
3.0 Applicable Standards and References 7
4.0 List of Test Equipment 8
5.0 Support Equipment 9
6.0 EUT Setup Block Diagram 9
7.0 Summary of Tests 10
7.1 Section 15.203 - Antenna Requirement 10
7.2 Section 15.207 – Power Line Conducted Emissions 10
7.2.1 Test Methodology 10
7.2.2 Test Results 10
7.3 Section 15.109 - Radiated Emissions (Unintentional Radiation) 11
7.3.1 Test Methodology 11
7.3.2 Test Results 11
7.4 Section 15.247(b) – Peak Output Power 12
7.4.1 Test Methodology 12
7.4.2 Test Results 12
7.5 Section 15.247(a) – Channel Usage 14
7.5.1 Section 15.247(a) - Carrier Frequency Separation 14
7.5.1.1 Test Methodology 14
7.5.1.2 Test Results 14
7.5.2 Section 15.247(a) – Number of Hopping Channels 15
7.5.3 Section 15.247(a) – Channel Dwell Time 16
7.5.4 Section 15.247(a) – 20dB Bandwidth 16
7.5.4.1 Test Methodology 16
7.5.4.2 Test Results 16
7.6 Section 15.247(d) – Band-edge Compliance and Spurious Emissions 18
7.6.1 Band-edge Compliance of RF Conducted Emissions 18
7.6.1.1 Test Methodology 18
7.6.1.2 Test Results 18
7.6.2 RF Conducted Spurious Emissions 19
7.6.2.1 Test Methodology 19
7.6.2.2 Test Results 19
7.6.3 Radiated Spurious Emissions (Restricted Bands) 22
7.6.3.1 Test Methodology 22
7.6.3.2 Test Results 22
7.6.3.3 Sample Calculations 23
8.0 CONCLUSION 23

Additional Exhibits Included In Filing
Internal Photographs Installation/Users Guide
External Photographs Theory of Operation
Test Setup Photographs BOM (Parts List)
Product Labeling System Block Diagram
RF Exposure – MPE Calculations Schematics

5015 B.U. Bowman Drive Buford, GA 30518 USA Voice: 770-831-8048 Fax: 770-831-8598

Model: Elster A3 Utilinet Endpoint FCC ID: R7PEC2R1S4

1.0 GENERAL

1.1 Purpose
The purpose of this report is to demonstrate compliance with Part 15, Subpart C of the FCC’s Code
of Federal Regulations.

1.2 Product Description

1.2.1 General
The Elster A3 UtiliNet module was designed for integration into the Elster A3 electric meter. With
the addition of the Elster A3 UtiliNet endpoint module, this meter is enabled for deployment in a
UtiliNet AMR system, allowing electric meter data access over the UtiliNet frequency hopping
spread spectrum (FHSS) fixed mesh network. The network operates in the 900MHz ISM band
(902~928MHz), with a typical RF output power of +20dBm.

The Elster A3 UtiliNet module was developed on a single, 4-layer PCB, with a 20 pin interface
connector for the interface to the Elster A3 electric meter. The Elster A3 module includes an MCX
RF jack for connection to the antenna, which is provided by Elster and is integrated into the
plastic housing of the meter assembly.

Manufacturer Information:
Cellnet
30000 Mill Creek Avenue
Suite 100
Alpharetta, GA 30022
USA

Detailed photographs of the EUT are filed separately with this filing.

1.2.2 Intended Use
The Elster A3 UtiliNet module was designed for integration into the Elster A3 electric meter to
enable wireless data access.

1.3 Test Methodology and Considerations
The Elster A3 Utilinet Endpoint is a module designed to be integrated into a host device therefore
testing was performed on the module in a stand-alone configuration with the exception of AC power
line conducted emissions. AC power line conducted emissions was performed with the module
installed into a typical host device.

ACS Report: 06-0387-15C Advanced Compliance Solutions Page 3

Model: Elster A3 Utilinet Endpoint FCC ID: R7PEC2R1S4

2.0 TEST FACILITIES

2.1 Location
The radiated and conducted emissions test sites are located at the following address:

Advanced Compliance Solutions
5015 B.U. Bowman Drive
Buford, GA 30518
Phone: (770) 831-8048
Fax: (770) 831-8598

2.2 Laboratory Accreditations/Recognitions/Certifications
The Semi-Anechoic Chamber Test Site, Open Area Test Site (OATS) and Conducted Emissions Site
have been fully described, submitted to, and accepted by the FCC, Industry Canada and the
Japanese Voluntary Control Council for Interference by information technology equipment. In
addition, ACS is compliant to ISO 17025 as certified by the National Institute of Standards and
Technology under their National Voluntary Laboratory Accreditation Program. The following
certification numbers have been issued in recognition of these accreditations and certifications:

FCC Registration Number: 89450
Industry Canada Lab Code: IC 4175
VCCI Member Number: 1831
VCCI OATS Registration Number R-1526
VCCI Conducted Emissions Site Registration Number: C-1608
NVLAP Lab Code: 200612-0

ACS Report: 06-0387-15C Advanced Compliance Solutions Page 4

Model: Elster A3 Utilinet Endpoint FCC ID: R7PEC2R1S4

2.3 Radiated Emissions Test Site Description

2.3.1 Semi-Anechoic Chamber Test Site
The Semi-Anechoic Chamber Test Site consists of a 20’ x 30’ x 18’ shielded enclosure. The
chamber is lined with Toyo Ferrite Grid Absorber, model number FFG-1000. The ferrite tile grid
is 101 x 101 x 19mm thick and weighs approximately 550 grams. These tiles are mounted on
steel panels and installed directly on the inner walls of the chamber.

The turntable is 150cm in diameter and is located 160cm from the back wall of the chamber. The
chamber is grounded via 1 - 8’ copper ground rod, installed at the center of the back wall, it is
bound to the ground plane using 3/4" stainless steel braided cable.

The turntable is all steel, flush mounted table installed in an all steel frame. The table is remotely
operated from inside the control room located 25’ from the range. The turntable is electrically
bonded to the surrounding ground plane via steel fingers installed on the edge of the turn table.
The steel fingers make constant contact with the ground plane during operation.

Behind the turntable is a 3’ x 6’ x 4’ deep shielded pit used for support equipment if necessary.
The pit is equipped with 1 - 4” PVC chases from the turntable to the pit that allow for cabling to
the EUT if necessary. The underside of the turntable can be accessed from the pit so cables can
be supplied to the EUT from the pit.

A diagram of the Semi-Anechoic Chamber Test Site is shown in Figure 2.3-1 below:

3 Meters

5 Feet
Diamete
r

20 Feet

30 Feet

Figure 2.3-1: Semi-Anechoic Chamber Test Site

ACS Report: 06-0387-15C Advanced Compliance Solutions Page 5

Model: Elster A3 Utilinet Endpoint FCC ID: R7PEC2R1S4

2.3.2 Open Area Tests Site (OATS)
The open area test site consists of a 40’ x 66’ concrete pad covered with a perforated electro-
plated galvanized sheet metal. The perforations in the sheet metal are 1/8” holes that are
staggered every 3/16”. The individual sheets are placed to overlap each other by 1/4” and are
riveted together to provide a continuous seam. Rivets are spaced every 3” in a 3 x 20 meter
perimeter around the antenna mast and EUT area. Rivets in the remaining area are spaced as
necessary to properly secure the ground plane and maintain the electrical continuity.

The entire ground plane extends 12’ beyond the turntable edge and 16’ beyond the antenna mast
when set to a 10 meter measurement distance. The ground plane is grounded via 4 - 8’ copper
ground rods, each installed at a corner of the ground plane and bound to the ground plane using
3/4" stainless steel braided cable.

The turntable is an all aluminum 10’ flush mounted table installed in an all aluminum frame. The
table is remotely operated from inside the control room located 40’ from the range. The turntable
is electrically bonded to the surrounding ground plane via steel fingers installed on the edge of
the turn table. The steel fingers make constant contact with the ground plane during operation.

Adjacent to the turntable is a 7’ x 7’ square and 4’ deep concrete pit used for support equipment if
necessary. The pit is equipped with 5 - 4” PVC chases from the pit to the control room that allow
for cabling to the EUT if necessary. The underside of the turntable can be accessed from the pit
so cables can be supplied to the EUT from the pit. The pit is covered with 2 sheets of 1/4"
diamond style re-enforced steel sheets. The sheets are painted to match the perforated steel
ground plane; however the underside edges have been masked off to maintain the electrical
continuity of the ground plane. All reflecting objects are located outside of the ellipse defined in
ANSI C63.4.

A diagram of the Open Area Test Site is shown in Figure 2.3-2 below:

10

3 Meters

40

7x7x4
Pit

66 Feet

Figure 2.3-2: Open Area Test Site

ACS Report: 06-0387-15C Advanced Compliance Solutions Page 6

Model: Elster A3 Utilinet Endpoint FCC ID: R7PEC2R1S4

2.4 Conducted Emissions Test Site Description
The AC mains conducted EMI site is located in the main EMC lab. It consists of an 8’ x 8’ solid
aluminum horizontal group reference plane (GRP) bonded every 3” to an 8’ X 8’ vertical ground
plane.

The site is of sufficient size to test table top and floor standing equipment in accordance with
section 6.1.4 of ANSI C63.4.

A diagram of the room is shown below in figure 4.1.3-1:

Vertical Ground Plane (8’ x 8’)

Non-Conductive EUT Table
(1m x 1.5m x .8m)

.4 Meters

.8 Meters

Horizontal Ground Plane (8’ x 8’)

LISN
Figure 2.4-1: AC Mains Conducted EMI Site

3.0 APPLICABLE STANDARD REFERENCES
The following standards were used:

ANSI C63.4-2003: Method of Measurements of Radio-Noise Emissions from Low-Voltage Electrical and
Electronic Equipment in the 9KHz to 40GHz
US Code of Federal Regulations (CFR): Title 47, Part 2, Subpart J: Equipment Authorization Procedures,
2005
US Code of Federal Regulations (CFR): Title 47, Part 15, Subpart C: Radio Frequency Devices, Intentional
Radiators, 2005
FCC OET Bulletin 65 Appendix C - Evaluating Compliance with FCC Guidelines for Human Exposure to
Radiofrequency Electromagnetic Fields, 2001
FCC Public Notice DA 00-705 - Filing and Measurement Guidelines for Frequency Hopping Spread
Spectrum Systems, March 30, 2000

ACS Report: 06-0387-15C Advanced Compliance Solutions Page 7

Model: Elster A3 Utilinet Endpoint FCC ID: R7PEC2R1S4

5.0 SUPPORT EQUIPMENT

Table 5-1: Support Equipment
Item Equipment Type Manufacturer Model Number Serial Number FCC ID

The EUT was tested as a stand alone device and no support equipment was utilized.

6.0 EQUIPMENT UNDER TEST SETUP BLOCK DIAGRAM

Spectrum
Analyzer EUT

Used for RF conducted
measurements only.

Figure 6-1: EUT Test Setup

The EUT was integrated into a typical host for the purpose of AC power line conducted emissions.

*See Test Setup photographs for additional detail.

ACS Report: 06-0387-15C Advanced Compliance Solutions Page 9

Model: Elster A3 Utilinet Endpoint FCC ID: R7PEC2R1S4

7.0 SUMMARY OF TESTS
Along with the tabular data shown below, plots were taken of all signals deemed important enough to
document.

7.1 Antenna Requirement - FCC Section 15.203
The Elster A3 Utilinet Endpoint PCB uses a detachable loaded monopole antenna provided by the
customer (Elster P/N 1B12150H01). This antenna has a typical gain of ~3dBi. The antenna connector is
MCX which is considered unique and complies with the antenna requirements of Section 15.203.

7.2 Power Line Conducted Emissions - FCC Section 15.207

7.2.1 Test Methodology
The Elster A3 Utilinet Endpoint PCB was integrated into a typical host device for testing. ANSI C63.4
sections 6 and 7 were the guiding documents for this evaluation. Conducted emissions were performed
from 150kHz to 30MHz with the spectrum analyzer’s resolution bandwidth set to 9kHz and the video
bandwidth set to 30kHz. The calculation for the conducted emissions is as follows:

Corrected Reading = Analyzer Reading + LISN Loss + Cable Loss
Margin = Applicable Limit - Corrected Reading

7.2.2 Test Results
Results of the test are shown below in and Tables 7.2-1.

Table 7.2-1: Line 1 Conducted EMI Results
Total
Uncorrected Reading
Frequency Correction Corrected Level (dBuV) Limit (dBuV) Margin (dB)
(dBuV)
(MHz) Factor
(dB)
Quasi-Peak Average Quasi-Peak Average Quasi-Peak Average Quasi-Peak Average
Line 1
0.19 24.1 11.2 9.80 33.90 21.00 64.04 54.04 30.1 33.0
0.338 22.2 15 9.80 32.00 24.80 59.25 49.25 27.3 24.5
0.966 20.6 16.2 9.80 30.40 26.00 56.00 46.00 25.6 20.0
5.06 22.6 11.9 9.80 32.40 21.70 60.00 50.00 27.6 28.3
5.37 24.1 14.1 9.81 33.91 23.91 60.00 50.00 26.1 26.1
11.66 22.8 15.2 10.00 32.80 25.20 60.00 50.00 27.2 24.8
Line 2
0.2 22.6 13.1 9.80 32.40 22.90 63.61 53.61 31.2 30.7
0.48 19.3 18.1 9.80 29.10 27.90 56.34 46.34 27.2 18.4
1.69 15.7 14.1 9.80 25.50 23.90 56.00 46.00 30.5 22.1
2.41 15.1 12.5 9.80 24.90 22.30 56.00 46.00 31.1 23.7
5.3 16.5 6.1 9.81 26.31 15.91 60.00 50.00 33.7 34.1
11.96 18.4 11 10.00 28.40 21.00 60.00 50.00 31.6 29.0

ACS Report: 06-0387-15C Advanced Compliance Solutions Page 10

Model: Elster A3 Utilinet Endpoint FCC ID: R7PEC2R1S4

7.3 Radiated Emissions - FCC Section 15.109(Unintentional Radiation)

7.3.1 Test Methodology
Radiated emissions tests were performed over the frequency range of 30MHz to 5 GHz. Measurements
of the radiated field strength were made at a distance of 3m from the boundary of the equipment under
test (EUT) and the receiving antenna. The antenna height was varied from 1m to 4m so that the
maximum radiated emissions level would be detected. Radiated measurements were made with the
Spectrum Analyzer’s resolution bandwidth set to 120 KHz for measurements above 30MHz. Average
measurements are taken with the RBW and VBW were set to 1MHz and 10 Hz respectively for
measurements above 1000MHz.

7.3.2 Test Results
Results of the test are given in Table 7.3-1 below:

Table 7.3-1: Radiated Emissions Tabulated Data
Frequency Polarization Height Azimuth Level Limit Margin
( MHz) (H/V) ( cm) ( deg) ( dBµV/m) ( dBµV/m) ( dB)
30 V 300 270 15.88 40.0 24.12
59.41 V 100 190 13.37 40.0 26.63
62.3 V 100 250 14.16 40.0 25.84
95.5 H 150 0 14.42 43.5 29.08
162.2 V 100 350 14.85 43.5 28.65
341.33 V 100 0 16.47 46.0 29.53
495.6 H 100 180 16.27 46.0 29.73
591.23 V 295 330 31.07 46.0 14.93
595.73 V 235 180 28.73 46.0 17.27
929.57 H 100 110 29.98 46.0 16.02

* Note: All emissions above 929.57 MHz were attenuated below the permissible limit.

ACS Report: 06-0387-15C Advanced Compliance Solutions Page 11

Model: Elster A3 Utilinet Endpoint FCC ID: R7PEC2R1S4

7.4 Peak Output Power – FCC Section 15.247(b)(2)

7.4.1 Test Methodology (Conducted Method)
The 20dB bandwidth of the EUT was within the resolution bandwidth of spectrum analyzer, therefore the
power measurement was made using the spectrum analyzer method. The resolution and video
bandwidth were set to > 20 dB bandwidth of the emission measured. The device employs >50 channels
therefore the power is limited to 1 Watt.

7.4.2 Test Results
Results are shown below in table 7.4-1 and the worst case was plotted and shown in figure 7.4-1 to 7.4-3
below:

Table 7.4-1: RF Output Power
Frequency Level
[MHz] [dBm]
902.1 21.36
915.0 21.34
927.9 21.02

* RBW 1 MHz Marker 1 [T1 ]
VBW 3 MHz 21.36 dBm
Ref 30 dBm Att 60 dB SWT 2.5 ms 902.108000000 MHz

30
1
A
20

1 PK
VIEW
10

0

-10

-20

-30

-40

-50

-60

-70

Center 902.1 MHz 200 kHz/ Span 2 MHz

Date: 12.OCT.200 6 10:54:07

Figure 7.4-1: Output power – Low Channel

ACS Report: 06-0387-15C Advanced Compliance Solutions Page 12

Model: Elster A3 Utilinet Endpoint FCC ID: R7PEC2R1S4

* RBW 1 MHz Marker 1 [T1 ]
VBW 3 MHz 21.34 dBm
Ref 30 dBm Att 60 dB SWT 2.5 ms 915.000000000 MHz

30
1
A
20

1 PK
MAXH
10

0

-10

-20

-30

-40

-50

-60

-70

Center 915 MHz 200 kHz/ Span 2 MHz

Date: 12.OCT.200 6 10:54:47

Figure 7.4-2: Output power – Mid Channel

* RBW 1 MHz Marker 1 [T1 ]
VBW 3 MHz 21.02 dBm
Ref 30 dBm Att 60 dB SWT 2.5 ms 927.904000000 MHz

30
1
A
20

1 PK
MAXH
10

0

-10

-20

-30

-40

-50

-60

-70

Center 927.9 MHz 200 kHz/ Span 2 MHz

Date: 12.OCT.200 6 10:55:11

Figure 7.4-3: Output power – High Channel

ACS Report: 06-0387-15C Advanced Compliance Solutions Page 13

Model: Elster A3 Utilinet Endpoint FCC ID: R7PEC2R1S4

7.5 Channel Usage Requirements - FCC Section 15.247(a) (1)

15.247(a)(1): Frequency hopping systems shall have hopping channel carrier frequencies separated by a
minimum of 25 kHz or the 20 dB bandwidth of the hopping channel, whichever is greater. The system
shall hop to channel frequencies that are selected at the system hopping rate from a pseudo randomly
ordered list of hopping frequencies. Each frequency must be used equally on the average by each
transmitter. The system receivers shall have input bandwidths that match the hopping channel
bandwidths of their corresponding transmitters and shall shift frequencies in synchronization with the
transmitted signals.

15.247(a) (1) (i): For frequency hopping systems operating in the 902–928 MHz band: if the 20 dB
bandwidth of the hopping channel is less than 250 kHz, the system shall use at least 50 hopping
frequencies and the average time of occupancy on any frequency shall not be greater than 0.4 seconds
within a 20 second period; if the 20 dB bandwidth of the hopping channel is 250 kHz or greater, the
system shall use at least 25 hopping frequencies and the average time of occupancy on any frequency
shall not be greater than 0.4 seconds within a 10 second period. The maximum allowed 20 dB bandwidth
of the hopping channel is 500 kHz.

7.5.1 Carrier Frequency Separation

7.5.1.1 Test Methodology
The span of the spectrum analyzer was set wide enough to capture two adjacent peaks and the RBW
and VBW were set to ≥ 1% of the span.

7.5.1.2 Test Results
The maximum 20dB bandwidth of the hopping channel was measured to be 27.6kHz (See figure 7.5.4-1
to 7.5.4-3 below). The adjacent channel separation was measured to be 100 kHz. Results are shown in
figure 7.5.1-1 below:

* RBW 10 kHz Delta 1 [T1 ]
VBW 30 kHz -0.04 dB
Ref 30 dBm Att 60 dB SWT 2.5 ms 100.000000000 kHz

30 Marker 1 [T1 ]
1 1 21.69 dBm
914.897200000 MHz A
20

1 PK
VIEW
10

0

-10

-20

-30

-40

-50

-60

-70

Center 914.95 MHz 20 kHz/ Span 200 kHz

Date: 12.OCT.200 6 11:00:27

Figure 7.5.1-1: Carrier Frequency Separation

ACS Report: 06-0387-15C Advanced Compliance Solutions Page 14

Model: Elster A3 Utilinet Endpoint FCC ID: R7PEC2R1S4

7.5.2 Number of Hopping Channels
The 20dB bandwidth of the device is less than 250 kHz. The device employs a minimum of 50 hopping
channels as required. The Frequency Hopping table is shown in Table 7.5.2-1 below:

Table 7.5.2-1: Channel Hopping Sequence
UtiliNet Frequency Hopping (FHSS) - Channel Hopping Sequence

Channel Freq (MHz) Channel Freq (MHz) Channel Freq (MHz) Channel Freq (MHz) Channel Freq (MHz)
86 910.6 69 908.9 252 927.2 214 923.4 208 922.8
211 923.1 256 927.6 200 922 28 904.8 84 910.4
173 919.3 176 919.6 185 920.5 158 917.8 21 904.1
141 916.1 52 907.2 36 905.6 77 909.7 121 914.1
72 909.2 134 915.4 131 915.1 124 914.4 125 914.5
166 918.6 242 926.2 32 905.2 61 908.1 81 910.1
63 908.3 228 924.8 22 904.2 147 916.7 165 918.5
23 904.3 187 920.7 235 925.5 191 921.1 95 911.5
180 920 82 910.2 222 924.2 150 917 182 920.2
227 924.7 174 919.4 108 912.8 171 919.1 122 914.2
40 906 230 925 99 911.9 41 906.1 229 924.9
144 916.4 241 926.1 126 914.6 188 920.8 216 923.6
33 905.3 133 915.3 152 917.2 89 910.9 253 927.3
195 921.5 169 918.9 193 921.3 220 924 204 922.4
154 917.4 30 905 254 927.4 127 914.7 70 909
190 921 136 915.6 146 916.6 20 904 44 906.4
236 925.6 178 919.8 34 905.4 217 923.7 259 927.9
149 916.9 210 923 49 906.9 114 913.4 240 926
143 916.3 71 909.1 255 927.5 111 913.1 48 906.8
181 920.1 205 922.5 129 914.9 213 923.3 66 908.6
232 925.2 192 921.2 209 922.9 35 905.5 79 909.9
123 914.3 85 910.5 94 911.4 42 906.2 132 915.2
233 925.3 53 907.3 140 916 172 919.2 245 926.5
38 905.8 202 922.2 83 910.3 25 904.5 120 914
118 913.8 37 905.7 257 927.7 59 907.9 67 908.7
60 908 43 906.3 237 925.7 87 910.7 183 920.3
201 922.1 54 907.4 135 915.5 168 918.8 248 926.8
198 921.8 243 926.3 234 925.4 196 921.6 78 909.8
116 913.6 64 908.4 92 911.2 223 924.3 80 910
91 911.1 68 908.8 57 907.7 24 904.4 93 911.3
212 923.2 100 912 109 912.9 225 924.5 184 920.4
221 924.1 239 925.9 249 926.9 103 912.3 74 909.4
96 911.6 29 904.9 215 923.5 151 917.1 153 917.3
157 917.7 177 919.7 179 919.9 203 922.3 65 908.5
247 926.7 139 915.9 258 927.8 197 921.7 159 917.9
167 918.7 117 913.7 186 920.6 219 923.9 142 916.2
224 924.4 148 916.8 244 926.4 97 911.7 58 907.8
246 926.6 75 909.5 189 920.9 51 907.1 164 918.4
238 925.8 206 922.6 31 905.1 98 911.8 163 918.3
46 906.6 226 924.6 73 909.3 45 906.5 90 911
39 905.9 155 917.5 130 915 156 917.6 106 912.6
251 927.1 47 906.7 194 921.4 101 912.1 145 916.5
115 913.5 62 908.2 162 918.2 50 907 76 909.6
128 914.8 138 915.8 119 913.9 27 904.7 199 921.9
110 913 231 925.1 107 912.7 207 922.7
160 918 113 913.3 88 910.8 250 927
56 907.6 137 915.7 175 919.5 102 912.2
26 904.6 55 907.5 170 919 112 913.2
161 918.1 105 912.5 218 923.8 104 912.4

ACS Report: 06-0387-15C Advanced Compliance Solutions Page 15

Model: Elster A3 Utilinet Endpoint FCC ID: R7PEC2R1S4

7.5.3 Channel Dwell Time

The maximum duration of the RF transmission is 364ms during a 700ms channel dwell time. There is a
minimum of 50 channels used during the hopping sequence therefore a channel will not be re-occupied
until at least 35s. Therefore the average time of occupancy on any one channel in a 20 second period is
364ms.

A detailed description of the RF timing and a timing diagram are included in the theory of operation.

7.5.4 20dB Bandwidth

7.5.4.1 Test Methodology
The spectrum analyzer span was set to 2 to 3 times the estimated 20 dB bandwidth of the emission. The
RBW was to ≥ 1% of the estimated 20 dB bandwidth. The trace was set to max hold with a peak detector
active. The Delta function of the analyzer was utilized to determine the 20 dB bandwidth of the emission.
The span and RBW were examined and re-adjusted if necessary to meet the requirements of 2 to 3 times
the 20 bandwidth for the span and ≥ 1% of the 20 dB bandwidth for the RBW.

7.5.4.2 Test Results
The maximum 20dB bandwidth was found to be approximately 27.60kHz. Results are shown below in
Table 7.5.4-1 and Figures 7.5.4-1 through 7.5.4-3.

Table 7.5.4-1
Frequency 20dB Bandwidth
(MHz) (kHz)
902.1 25.95
915 27.60
927.9 27.45

* RBW 3 kHz Marker 1 [T1 ]
VBW 10 kHz 21.88 dBm
Ref 30 dBm Att 60 dB SWT 10 ms 902.104800000 MHz

30 ndB [T1] 20.00 dB
1 BW 25.950000000 kHz
Temp 1 [T1 ndB] A
20
2.41 dBm
1 PK
902.087700000 MHz
MAXH
10 Temp 2 [T1 ndB]
T1 T2 2.24 dBm
902.113650000 MHz
0

-10

-20

-30

-40

-50

-60

-70

Center 902.1 MHz 7.5 kHz/ Span 75 kHz

Date: 12.OCT.200 6 10:57:56

Figure 7.5.4-1: 20dB Bandwidth Low Channel

ACS Report: 06-0387-15C Advanced Compliance Solutions Page 16

Model: Elster A3 Utilinet Endpoint FCC ID: R7PEC2R1S4

* RBW 3 kHz Marker 1 [T1 ]
VBW 10 kHz 21.68 dBm
Ref 30 dBm Att 60 dB SWT 10 ms 914.995200000 MHz

30 ndB [T1] 20.00 dB
1 BW 27.600000000 kHz
Temp 1 [T1 ndB] A
20
1.79 dBm
1 PK
914.986500000 MHz
MAXH
10 Temp 2 [T1 ndB]
T1 T2 1.43 dBm
915.014100000 MHz
0

-10

-20

-30

-40

-50

-60

-70

Center 915 MHz 7.5 kHz/ Span 75 kHz

Date: 12.OCT.200 6 10:56:46

Figure 7.5.4-2: 20dB Bandwidth Mid Channel

* RBW 3 kHz Marker 1 [T1 ]
VBW 10 kHz 21.45 dBm
Ref 30 dBm Att 60 dB SWT 10 ms 927.895200000 MHz

30 ndB [T1] 20.00 dB
1 BW 27.450000000 kHz
Temp 1 [T1 ndB] A
20
1.58 dBm
1 PK
927.886650000 MHz
MAXH
10 Temp 2 [T1 ndB]
T1 T2 1.43 dBm
927.914100000 MHz
0

-10

-20

-30

-40

-50

-60

-70

Center 927.9 MHz 7.5 kHz/ Span 75 kHz

Date: 12.OCT.200 6 10:56:11

Figure 7.5.4-3: 20dB Bandwidth High Channel

ACS Report: 06-0387-15C Advanced Compliance Solutions Page 17

Model: Elster A3 Utilinet Endpoint FCC ID: R7PEC2R1S4

7.6 Band-Edge Compliance and Spurious Emissions - FCC Section 15.247(d)

7.6.1 Band-Edge Compliance of RF Conducted Emissions

7.6.1.1 Test Methodology
The EUT was investigated at the lowest and highest channel available to determine band-edge
compliance. For each measurement the spectrum analyzer’s RBW was set to 30 kHz, which is ≥ 1% of
the span, and the VBW was set to 100kHz.

7.6.1.2 Test Results
In a 100 kHz bandwidth at the lower and upper band-edge, the radio frequency power that was produced
by the EUT is at least 20 dB below that in the 100 kHz bandwidth within the band that contains the
highest level of desired power. Band-edge compliance is displayed in Figures 7.6.1-1 and 7.6.2-2

* RBW 30 kHz Marker 1 [T1 ]
VBW 100 kHz 21.48 dBm
Ref 30 dBm Att 60 dB SWT 5 ms 902.100000000 MHz

30
1
A
20

1 PK
VIEW
10

0

-10

-20

-30

-40

-50

-60

-70

Center 902 MHz 250 kHz/ Span 2.5 MHz

Date: 12.OCT.200 6 11:01:34

Figure 7.6.1-1: Lower Band-edge

* RBW 30 kHz Marker 1 [T1 ]
VBW 100 kHz 21.31 dBm
Ref 30 dBm Att 60 dB SWT 5 ms 927.900000000 MHz

30
1
A
20

1 PK
VIEW
10

0

-10

-20

-30

-40

-50

-60

-70

Center 928 MHz 250 kHz/ Span 2.5 MHz

Date: 12.OCT.200 6 11:02:32

Figure 7.6.1-2: Upper Band-edge

ACS Report: 06-0387-15C Advanced Compliance Solutions Page 18

Model: Elster A3 Utilinet Endpoint FCC ID: R7PEC2R1S4

7.6.2 RF Conducted Spurious Emissions

7.6.2.1 Test Methodology
The EUT was investigated for conducted spurious emissions from 30MHz to 10GHz, 10 times the highest
fundamental frequency. Measurements were made at the low, center and high channels of the EUT. For
each measurement, the spectrum analyzer’s RBW was set to 100kHz. A peak detector function was
used with the trace set to max hold.

7.6.2.1 Test Results
All emission found were greater than 20dB down from the fundamental carrier. Results are shown below
in Figures 7.6.2-1 through 7.6.2-6.

* RBW 100 kHz Marker 1 [T1 ]
VBW 300 kHz 21.28 dBm
Ref 30 dBm Att 60 dB SWT 100 ms 903.000000000 MHz

30
1
A
20

1 PK
VIEW
10

D1 1.28 dBm
0

-10

-20

-30

-40

-50

-60

-70

Start 30 MHz 97 MHz/ Stop 1 GHz

Date: 12.OCT.200 6 11:07:41

Figure 7.6.2-1 RF Conducted Spurious Emissions – Low Channel

* RBW 100 kHz Marker 1 [T1 ]
VBW 300 kHz -25.98 dBm
Ref 30 dBm Att 60 dB SWT 900 ms 7.282000000 GHz

30

A
20

1 PK
VIEW
10

D1 1.28 dBm
0

-10

-20
1

-30

-40

-50

-60

-70

Start 1 GHz 900 MHz/ Stop 10 GHz

Date: 12.OCT.200 6 11:09:00

Figure 7.6.2-2 RF Conducted Spurious Emissions – Low Channel

ACS Report: 06-0387-15C Advanced Compliance Solutions Page 19

Model: Elster A3 Utilinet Endpoint FCC ID: R7PEC2R1S4

* RBW 100 kHz Marker 1 [T1 ]
VBW 300 kHz 21.38 dBm
Ref 30 dBm Att 60 dB SWT 100 ms 916.580000000 MHz

30
1
A
20

1 PK
VIEW
10

D1 1.38 dBm
0

-10

-20

-30

-40

-50

-60

-70

Center 515 MHz 97 MHz/ Span 970 MHz

Date: 12.OCT.200 6 11:05:03

Figure 7.6.2-3 RF Conducted Spurious Emissions – Mid Channel

* RBW 100 kHz Marker 1 [T1 ]
VBW 300 kHz -24.61 dBm
Ref 30 dBm Att 60 dB SWT 900 ms 7.084000000 GHz

30

A
20

1 PK
VIEW
10

D1 1.38 dBm
0

-10

-20
1

-30

-40

-50

-60

-70

Start 1 GHz 900 MHz/ Stop 10 GHz

Date: 12.OCT.200 6 11:05:28

Figure 7.6.2-4 RF Conducted Spurious Emissions – Mid Channel

ACS Report: 06-0387-15C Advanced Compliance Solutions Page 20

Model: Elster A3 Utilinet Endpoint FCC ID: R7PEC2R1S4

* RBW 100 kHz Marker 1 [T1 ]
VBW 300 kHz 21.08 dBm
Ref 30 dBm Att 60 dB SWT 100 ms 930.160000000 MHz

30
1
A
20

1 PK
VIEW
10

0 D1 1.08 dBm

-10

-20

-30

-40

-50

-60

-70

Start 30 MHz 97 MHz/ Stop 1 GHz

Date: 12.OCT.200 6 11:03:40

Figure 7.6.2-5 RF Conducted Spurious Emissions – High Channel

* RBW 100 kHz Marker 1 [T1 ]
VBW 300 kHz -24.63 dBm
Ref 30 dBm Att 60 dB SWT 900 ms 9.514000000 GHz

30

A
20

1 PK
VIEW
10

0 D1 1.08 dBm

-10

-20
1

-30

-40

-50

-60

-70

Start 1 GHz 900 MHz/ Stop 10 GHz

Date: 12.OCT.200 6 11:04:06

Figure 7.6.2-6 RF Conducted Spurious Emissions – High Channel

ACS Report: 06-0387-15C Advanced Compliance Solutions Page 21

Model: Elster A3 Utilinet Endpoint FCC ID: R7PEC2R1S4

7.6.3 Radiated Spurious Emissions (Restricted Bands) - FCC Section 15.205

7.6.3.1 Test Methodology
Radiated emissions tests were made over the frequency range of 30MHz to 10GHz, 10 times the highest
fundamental frequency.

The EUT was rotated through 360° and the receive antenna height was varied from 1m to 4m so that the
maximum radiated emissions level would be detected. For frequencies below 1000MHz, quasi-peak
measurements were made using a resolution bandwidth (RBW) of 120 kHz and a video bandwidth (VBW)
of 300 kHz. For frequencies above 1000MHz, average measurements were made using an RBW of 1
MHz and a VBW of 10 Hz and peak measurements were made with RBW of 1 MHz and a VBW of 1
MHz.

The EUT was caused to generate a continuous carrier signal on the hopping channel.

7.6.3.2 Test Results
Radiated spurious emissions found in the band of 30MHz to 10GHz are reported in Tables 7.6.3-1.
through 7.6.3-3. Each emission found to be in a restricted band as defined by section 15.205, was
compared to the radiated emission limits as defined in section 15.209.

Table 7.6.3-1: Radiated Spurious Emissions
Level (dBuV) Antenna Correction Corrected Level Limit Margin
Frequency
Polarity Factors (dBuV/m) (dBuV/m) (dB)
(MHz)
pk Qpk/Avg (H/V) (dB) pk Qpk/Avg pk Qpk/Avg pk Qpk/Avg
2706.3 45.43 37.58 H 1.49 46.92 39.07 74.0 54.0 27.08 14.93
2706.3 44.77 35.73 V 1.26 46.03 36.99 74.0 54.0 27.97 17.01
3608.4 47.77 41.80 H 4.24 52.01 46.04 74.0 54.0 21.99 7.96
3608.4 43.98 31.72 V 4.20 48.18 35.92 74.0 54.0 25.82 18.08
4510.5 44.77 32.76 H 6.51 51.28 39.27 74.0 54.0 22.72 14.73
4510.5 44.47 29.79 V 6.62 51.09 36.41 74.0 54.0 22.91 17.59
8118.9 43.20 30.88 H 13.05 56.25 43.93 74.0 54.0 17.75 10.07
8118.9 43.15 30.32 V 12.97 56.12 43.29 74.0 54.0 17.88 10.71
* The magnitude of all emissions not reported were below the noise floor of the measurement system.

Table 7.6.3-2: Radiated Spurious Emissions
Level (dBuV) Antenna Correction Corrected Level Limit Margin
Frequency
Polarity Factors (dBuV/m) (dBuV/m) (dB)
(MHz)
pk Qpk/Avg (H/V) (dB) pk Qpk/Avg pk Qpk/Avg pk Qpk/Avg
2745 45.74 37.05 H 1.61 47.35 38.66 74.0 54.0 26.65 15.34
2745 43.25 30.17 V 1.40 44.65 31.57 74.0 54.0 29.35 22.43
3660 48.30 40.33 H 4.47 52.77 44.80 74.0 54.0 21.23 9.20
3660 45.86 32.30 V 4.47 50.33 36.77 74.0 54.0 23.67 17.23
4575 44.64 34.16 H 6.75 51.39 40.91 74.0 54.0 22.61 13.09
4575 44.54 33.83 V 6.87 51.41 40.70 74.0 54.0 22.59 13.30
7320 44.95 36.87 H 13.38 58.33 50.25 74.0 54.0 15.68 3.76
7320 45.00 36.26 V 13.31 58.31 49.57 74.0 54.0 15.69 4.43
*The magnitude of all emissions not reported were below the noise floor of the measurement system.

Table 7.6.3-3: Radiated Spurious Emissions
Level (dBuV) Antenna Correction Corrected Level Limit Margin
Frequency
Polarity Factors (dBuV/m) (dBuV/m) (dB)
(MHz)
pk Qpk/Avg (H/V) (dB) pk Qpk/Avg pk Qpk/Avg pk Qpk/Avg
2783.7 46.29 39.03 H 1.72 48.01 40.75 74.0 54.0 25.99 13.25
3711.6 47.92 41.34 H 4.71 52.63 46.05 74.0 54.0 21.37 7.95
3711.6 44.29 32.30 V 4.73 49.02 37.03 74.0 54.0 24.98 16.97
4639.5 46.50 37.41 H 6.99 53.49 44.40 74.0 54.0 20.51 9.60
4639.5 45.30 35.32 V 7.11 52.41 42.43 74.0 54.0 21.59 11.57
7423.2 47.64 39.31 H 13.39 61.03 52.70 74.0 54.0 12.97 1.30
7423.2 46.40 38.85 V 13.30 59.70 52.15 74.0 54.0 14.30 1.85
8351.1 43.25 29.86 H 13.32 56.57 43.18 74.0 54.0 17.43 10.82
8351.1 42.64 29.94 V 13.29 55.93 43.23 74.0 54.0 18.07 10.77
* The magnitude of all emissions not reported were below the noise floor of the measurement system.
ACS Report: 06-0387-15C Advanced Compliance Solutions Page 22

Model: Elster A3 Utilinet Endpoint FCC ID: R7PEC2R1S4

7.6.3.3 Sample Calculation:

RC = RU + CFT

Where:
CFT = Total Correction Factor (AF+CA+AG)-DC (Average Measurements Only)
RU = Uncorrected Reading
RC = Corrected Level
AF = Antenna Factor
CA = Cable Attenuation
AG = Amplifier Gain
DC = Duty Cycle Correction Factor

Example Calculation

PEAK:
Corrected Level: 45.43 + 1.49 = 46.92dBuV
Margin: 74dBuV – 46.92dBuV = 27.08dB

AVERAGE:
Corrected Level: 37.58 + 1.49 - 0 = 39.07dBuV
Margin: 54dBuV – 39.07dBuV = 14.93dB

8.0 CONCLUSION
In the opinion of ACS, Inc. the Elster A3 Utilinet Endpoint, manufactured by Cellnet Technology, Inc.
meets the requirements of FCC Part 15 subpart C.

END REPORT

ACS Report: 06-0387-15C Advanced Compliance Solutions Page 23

Document Created: 2007-01-03 15:05:34
Document Modified: 2007-01-03 15:05:34

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