Customizable Nokia 472510A FTSE GPS Cable

  Nokia 472510A FTSE GPS Cable - Product Overview  

This cable is a specialized GPS/GNSS synchronization antenna cable designed for Nokia's Flexi Multiradio and AirScale base station families. It connects an external GPS antenna to the FTSE (Flexi Transport Sync Extension) module or directly to a system module, providing the critical timing reference required for network synchronization.

  Key Functions & Specifications  

Primary Function: To deliver the satellite signal from an external GPS/GNSS antenna to the base station's synchronization unit (FTSE or integrated module). This signal is used to generate a highly accurate timing clock for the entire base station.

Compatibility: Designed for use with:Nokia Flexi Multiradio BTS (e.g., connecting to the FTSE unit).

Nokia AirScale BTS (often connects directly to the System Module or RF Module with integrated GPS support).

Nokia FTSE (Flexi Transport Sync Extension) unit, which distributes timing to multiple baseband units.

Critical for Synchronization: This cable is essential for:

FDD-LTE & TDD-LTE Networks: Provides frequency synchronization (FDD) and precise phase synchronization (TDD).

5G NR: Especially critical for 5G TDD networks and any features requiring precise time alignment (e.g., coordinated multipoint).

Technical Specifications:

Impedance: 50 ohms (standard for RF applications).

Connectors:

One end: TNC male connector (typically for connecting to the Nokia FTSE unit or baseband module).

Other end: N-type female connector (for connecting to the external GPS antenna).

Shielding: High-quality, low-loss coaxial cable with multiple layers of shielding to minimize signal loss and protect the weak GPS signal from interference.

Length: The standard length is often 5 meters, but it is highly customizable (e.g., 10m, 15m, 20m, 30m) to meet the specific installation distance between the antenna and the base station unit.

  Deployment Scenarios  

Macro Cell Sites: The most common use case, where a GPS antenna is mounted on a tower or mast, and the cable is routed down to the base station cabinet or shelter.

Indoor Sites: Used to connect an antenna placed outside a building (e.g., on the roof) to a base station unit located inside.

Multi-Band Sites: A single GPS antenna and cable can often provide the timing reference for multiple baseband units or collocated equipment via a distribution unit.

  Troubleshooting & Notes  

Signal Loss: The most common issue. Ensure all connectors are weatherproofed and tightly secured. Even a small amount of moisture ingress can severely degrade the signal.

Cable Length: Do not coil excess cable. Coiling can create an inductor that degrades the GPS signal. Instead, cut the cable to the required length or neatly loop it in a figure-eight pattern.

Custom Lengths: The "customizable" aspect is crucial. Using a cable longer than necessary increases signal attenuation, while a cable that is too short will not reach. The correct length is vital for maintaining signal integrity.

  Conclusion  

The Nokia 472510A is not a generic cable; it is a precision RF component. Its quality and correct installation are paramount for achieving and maintaining accurate network synchronization. Using a poor-quality or incorrectly sized cable is a common root cause of chronic synchronization problems in cellular networks. For any site requiring GPS timing, this cable is a critical link.