CEL-FI QUATRA®

Installation and User Guide

Nextivity, Inc.
16550 West Bernardo Ct
Building 5, Suite 550
San Diego, CA 92127
858-485-9442
support@cel-fi.com
Cel-Fi QUATRA: User Manual 2

Contents
Chapter 1. Introducing QUATRA ................................................................................................................................... 4

Cel-Fi QUATRA ........................................................................................................................................................... 4

Features and Benefits............................................................................................................................................ 4

Unconditionally Network Safe .................................................................................................................................. 4

Nextivity’s Cel-Fi WAVE Platform .............................................................................................................................. 5

QUATRA: Sites. Solutions. Systems. ........................................................................................................................ 5

QUATRA variants ................................................................................................................................................... 6

VIDEOS ....................................................................................................................................................................... 6

Chapter 2. System Elements ........................................................................................................................................ 7

QUATRA 1000 – Small Cell Configuration (example) .............................................................................................. 7

QUATRA 1000 – Off-Air Configuration (example) .................................................................................................... 7

QUATRA 2000 – Off-Air Configuration (example) .................................................................................................... 8

Hardware Components ............................................................................................................................................. 8

Cel-Fi QUATRA Network Unit (NU) ........................................................................................................................ 8

Cel-Fi QUATRA Coverage Unit (CU) ....................................................................................................................... 9

Software Components............................................................................................................................................... 9

QUATRA Planner Tool ............................................................................................................................................ 9

QUATRA Management Tool (QMT) (BETA coming soon) .................................................................................... 9

Cel-Fi WAVE Portal ............................................................................................................................................... 10

WAVE Architecture............................................................................................................................................... 10

Peripheral Components Options ............................................................................................................................. 11

Cel-Fi MIMO Panel Antenna................................................................................................................................. 11

Cel-Fi Wideband MIMO Omni Antenna................................................................................................................ 11

Cel-Fi Mount ......................................................................................................................................................... 12

Cel-Fi Pole Mount ................................................................................................................................................. 12

Cel-Fi QUATRA Small Cell Interface (SCIF) ......................................................................................................... 13

Cel-Fi QUATRA Range Extender (QRE) ................................................................................................................ 13

Available QUATRA 1000 & 2000 Models ................................................................................................................ 14

BAND / FREQUENCY DETAIL .................................................................................................................................. 14

Chapter 4. Configuration Modes (Options) ................................................................................................................ 15

Cel-Fi QUATRA: User Manual 3

Off-Air ....................................................................................................................................................................... 15

Selecting the Right Donor Antenna ..................................................................................................................... 15

Small Cell (Supercell) .............................................................................................................................................. 16

Determining the Proper Configuration.................................................................................................................... 17

Chapter 5. Deploying Cel-Fi QUATRA ......................................................................................................................... 18

Plan .......................................................................................................................................................................... 18

Planning – Step 1. Site Survey ............................................................................................................................ 18

Planning – Step 2. Estimating Hardware Needs ................................................................................................ 19

Planning – Step 3. Determine NU Donor (Off Air or Small Cell) Location ......................................................... 19

Planning – Step 4. NU Internet Connection & WAVE Portal Account ............................................................... 20

Planning – Step 5. Coverage Unit (CU) Placement ............................................................................................ 20

Planning – Step 6. Coverage Unit Cabling.......................................................................................................... 21

Install........................................................................................................................................................................ 22

Cable ........................................................................................................................................................................ 24

Power ....................................................................................................................................................................... 25

Chapter 6. Troubleshooting ........................................................................................................................................ 26

Chapter 7. Terminology ............................................................................................................................................... 28

Chapter 8. Specifications ............................................................................................................................................ 30

Version ......................................................................................................................................................................... 31
Cel-Fi QUATRA: User Manual 4

CHAPTER 1. INTRODUCING QUATRA

Cel-Fi QUATRA
In-Building Enterprise Cellular System
Cel-Fi QUATRA is an active DAS hybrid solution for delivering high quality in-building cellar coverage. Through
the combination of the best of active DAS and Cel-Fi technology that has been widely adopted by carriers
around the world, Cel-Fi QUATRA is a scalable solution that provides configurations for single or multi-carrier
environments. Options are available for off-air mode or via integration with carrier small cell equipment and
operated in distributed small cell mode, creating a Supercell.

Cel-Fi QUATRA is self-configuring and self-optimizing, distributes RF over Ethernet (RFoE), and leverages Power
over Ethernet (PoE) for ease and accuracy of installation by Cel-Fi Certified professionals. The system can be
monitored and managed using the Cel-Fi WAVE Platform.

Features and Benefits

 Improves cellular reception for venues from  Nextivity’s IntelliBoost™ Six-Core Processor
15,000 to 50,000 sq. ft. per system supports 3G/4G speeds with low power
 Built for streamlined installation and consumption
maintenance by Cel-Fi Certified professional  Advanced proprietary digital echo-
 Carrier approved and unconditionally network cancellation and channel select filtering
safe for voice and data algorithms

 Intelligently self-configures and continually  Automatic Gain Control (AGC) continually and
self-optimizes to adapt to environmental dynamically maximizes system power
changes  Adaptive signal equalization
 AntennaBoost intelligent antenna aiming  Seamless integration with the macro network;
optimizes signal quality (QUATRA 1000) improves network efficiency without causing
 Remote monitoring and management using interference
the Cel-Fi WAVE Platform  Only one power outlet needed per system
 Off air donor signal (at the NU)

 Small cell donor (QUATRA 1000 only)  Supporting peripherals available

(antennas, mounts, range extenders, etc.)
 Best quality signal at 100 dB max gain in off-
air mode

Unconditionally Network Safe

Cel-Fi QUATRA provides a sophisticated network-safe design that has been engineered to deliver
multiple levels of carrier-grade network protection:

 Uplink power control to prevent desensitizing the network

 Echo-cancellation and feedback control
 Uplink gating
 Signal qualification (channels are individually qualified, so noise or very poor signals won’t be
amplified and degrade the network)
 Nextivity’s Cel-Fi WAVE Platform
The Cel-Fi WAVE Platform enables device management and maintenance of Cel-Fi QUATRA systems.
Alerts and alarms can be used as configured out of the box or they can be customized however the
owner or admin chooses.

QUATRA: Sites. Solutions. Systems.

A QUATRA system is comprised of a Network Unit (NU) and one to four Coverage Units (CU). An NU and
CU are paired; they must be of the same model, and band configuration. Multiple QUATRA systems can
be installed together to form a larger solution. Systems can be attached to a specific site in WAVE, and
managed accordingly. A site represents a physical location, in WAVE; an address.

5
 Note:

There is no technical limitation to the number of systems or solutions that can be installed together at a
site.

QUATRA variants
QUATRA 1000 QUATRA 2000

Active DAS Hybrid  

Unconditionally Network Safe  
100dB System Gain  
Distributed over Cat 5e cable  
Power over Ethernet (POE)  
12.5K ft2 per Coverage Unit  
MIMO 

Small Cell compatible 

Dual-Carrier 

VIDEOS
 Cel-Fi Intro Video  Small Cell Install
https://youtu.be/Jy6PFhip3SM https://youtu.be/ZP8LeQ8YQMc

 Small Cell Planning  Off-Air Install

https://youtu.be/SURNn6vk-_E https://youtu.be/-Esb0DhkgG4

 Off-Air Planning  Small Cell Commissioning

https://youtu.be/QoMk4XNu47E https://youtu.be/tpZe1c2KdMw

 Off-Air Commissioning
https://youtu.be/gFhWN_6wqwI

6
 CHAPTER 2. SYSTEM ELEMENTS

QUATRA 1000 – Small Cell Configuration (example)

QUATRA 1000 – Off-Air Configuration (example)

7
 QUATRA 2000 – Off-Air Configuration (example)

Hardware Components
Cel-Fi QUATRA Network Unit (NU)
Cel-Fi QUATRA Network Unit (NU) is the hub of an individual system. Each
NU supports up to four Coverage Units (CU).

 Provides donor signal to the Cel-Fi QUATRA system

 Provides power over PoE to Coverage Units and QREs
 Connects to the Cel-Fi WAVE Platform for remote monitoring and
management
 QUATRA 1000 and QUATRA 2000 variants available
 Note:
o QUATRA 1000 Network Units (NU) only work with QUATRA 1000
Coverage Units (CU) of the same variant
o QUATRA 2000 Network Units (NU) only work with QUATRA 2000
Coverage Units (CU) of the same variant

8
 Cel-Fi QUATRA Coverage Unit (CU)
Cel-Fi QUATRA Coverage Unit (CU) is the remote unit of the system that
rebroadcasts the donor signal and provides the coverage bubble.

 Provides coverage in the Cel-Fi QUATRA system

 Powered by Power-Over-Ethernet (PoE) from the Network Unit
 Self-configuring and self-optimizing
 QUATRA 1000 and QUATRA 2000 variants available
 Note:
o QUATRA 1000 Coverage Units (CU) only work with QUATRA 1000
Network Units (NU) of the same variant
o QUATRA 2000 Coverage Units (CU) only work with QUATRA 2000
Network Units (NU) of the same variant

Software Components
QUATRA Planner Tool
This simple on-line tool estimates hardware needs based upon building size, floor
plan utilization, and donor mode.

 Define building and Name the project

 Select Donor mode
 Email results

www.cel-fi.com/quatra/plan

QUATRA Management Tool (QMT) (BETA coming soon)

Smartphone app to manage systems locally when a wired Internet LAN connection
isn’t available at the system NU location.

 Communicates to QUATRA using Bluetooth

 Syncs the system’s data/metrics to the WAVE Portal in the cloud over the
mobile network
 May be used to commission systems
 Note: ANDROID-only

9
 Cel-Fi WAVE Portal
For channel partners and installers, the WAVE portal is a cloud-based management
solution to keep track of systems in the field.

 Commissioning
 Alerts & Alarms
 Status & Email/Text Notifications
 Troubleshooting

WAVE Architecture

10
 Peripheral Components Options
A number of peripheral component options are available for QUATRA from Nextivity and Nextivity’s
partners. Check the web site regularly for updates.

www.cel-fi.com/quatra

Cel-Fi MIMO Panel Antenna

Model: A52-X12-100

The Cel-Fi MIMO Panel Antenna is the only authorized indoor/outdoor MIMO
antenna for Cel-Fi QUATRA 1000.

 High gain directional MIMO panel antenna

 Donor managed with AntennaBoost’s 8-position aiming mount
 Includes options for ceiling, wall, and pole mounting
 Required for off-air installation of multiple CUs

Works best with:

 QUATRA 1000

Cel-Fi Wideband MIMO Omni Antenna

Model:

Cel-Fi Wideband MIMO Omni Antenna is an outdoor-rated cellular antenna, perfect

for use as a donor antenna for Cel-Fi QUATRA 2000.

 698 MHZ - 2700 MHz

 MIMO (dual RF feeds)
 N-type Female connectors

Works best with:

 QUATRA 2000

11
 Cel-Fi Mount
Model: F66-100-000

The Cel-Fi Mount is for mounting antennas indoors or outdoors.

 26 cm powder-coated pole
 Stamped metal surface
 UV-rated for outdoor use
 Supports pole/ceiling/wall application
 Supports 8-position with locking screw for AntennaPositioning app
 Flexible hole pattern for multiple mount types

Works best with:

 Cel-Fi Panel Antennas
 Cel-Fi Directional Antennas

Cel-Fi Pole Mount

Model: F26-100-000

The Cel-Fi MIMO Panel Antenna is the only authorized indoor/outdoor MIMO
antenna for Cel-Fi QUATRA 1000. Use with the AntennaPositioning app and WAVE.

 Galvanized stainless steel

 Outdoor ready
 Supports pole mounting
 Supports 7-position rotation with locking screw
 Multiple hole patterns support various antennas
 Works with poles 2" (or less) in diameter

Works best with:

 QUATRA 1000

12
 Cel-Fi QUATRA Small Cell Interface (SCIF)
Model: Q34-SCI

The Cel-Fi QUATRA Small Cell Interface (SCIF) simplifies RF connections between
a small cell and NUs. It includes a main unit and all cables for a single NU.

 Simplifies connections to a small cell

 Provides proper signal attenuation and isolation
 Required for small cell Installation

Works with:
 QUATRA 1000

Cel-Fi QUATRA Range Extender (QRE)

Model: Q34-E1000

Cel-Fi QUATRA Range Extender is a Power over Ethernet (PoE) device that extends
the maximum distance between the NU and the CU.

 Allows NU-to-CU cable lengths of up to 200 meters (650 ft.)

 Power over Ethernet (no separate power supply or PoE injector needed)

Works best with:

 QUATRA 1000
 QUATRA 2000

13
 Available QUATRA 1000 & 2000 Models
Model Bands Approval

Q34-2/4/5/12 2,4,5,12 FCC

Q34-2/4/5/13 2,4,5,13 FCC

Q34-1/3/7/8 1,3,7,8 CE

Q34-1/3/8/20 1,3,8,20 CE

Q34-1/7/8/20 1,7,8,20 CE

3,5,7,28*
Q34-3/5/7/28 CE, RCM
*Telstra-only

Q34-4/5/12/13/25 4,5,12,13,25 FCC, IC

BAND / FREQUENCY DETAIL

Cel-Fi QUATRA BAND SUPPORT Downlink (MHz) Uplink (MHz)
Band Name Low High Low High
1 2100 2110 2170 1920 1980
2 1900 PCS 1930 1990 1850 1910
3 1800+ 1805 1880 1710 1785
4 AWS-1 2110 2155 1710 1755
5 850 869 894 824 849
7 2600 2620 2690 2500 2570
8 900 GSM 925 960 880 915
12 700a 729 746 699 716
13 700c 746 756 777 787
20 800 DD 791 821 832 862
25 1900+ 1930 1995 1850 1915
28* 700 APT 758 788 703 733
* This doesn’t cover the full band; the product covers the lower part of the band. This is because
components are not available to support the entire band within the product constraints.

14
 CHAPTER 4. CONFIGURATION MODES (OPTIONS)

Off-Air

Cel-Fi QUATRA can be installed off-air to provide high-quality in-building wireless connectivity by using
the existing cellular network. Off-air installations comprised of an NU and up to four (4) distributed CUs
dynamically networked into a single system to provide high-quality in-building wireless connectivity.

External Antenna is required when using more than one CU in off-air mode.

Be sure to choose the System Mode “External Antenna” or “Internal Antenna” in the Cel-Fi WAVE Portal
when using the Cel-Fi QUATRA Off-Air.

Selecting the Right Donor Antenna

The QUATRA 1000 system is provider-specific and supports MIMO capability. For that reason, for best
performance, in Off-Air mode, each NU should be connected to a high-gain directional MIMO antenna.
The Cel-Fi Wideband MIMO Panel Antenna (model: A52-X12-100) is perfect for this application. Used
with the AntennaPositioning application (via WAVE) and a Cel-Fi Mount ensures that the system will
have the best donor signal possible.

The QUATRA 2000 system includes a dual-carrier, software configurable NU, so multiple donor sources
are accessed by the antenna to provide signal. For this reason, an omni-directional antenna is ideal.
Nextivity offers an omni-directional dual-feed wideband antenna (model: A11-V14-100) with dual
outputs that is a perfect donor for the QUATRA 2000 NU.

15
 Small Cell (Supercell)

A Supercell is comprised of a Cel-Fi QUATRA 1000 system connected to a small cell. Multiple Cel-Fi
QUATRA 1000 systems can be connected to a single small cell, or multiple small cells, to form a
coordinated Supercell that extends coverage for large venues. A Supercell with multiple Cel-Fi QUATRA
1000 coverage units (CUs) is more efficient than multiple small cells, and the CUs of a Cel-Fi QUATRA
1000 system connected to a Supercell do not interfere with one another.

Cel-Fi QUATRA 1000 partners with carrier-approved small cells to deliver better RF distribution through
CUs, utilizing the full capacity of the small cell, minimizing interference significantly, and requiring much
less network management resources. This achieves the major goal of in-building network densification.

Note: Be sure to choose the System Mode “Small Cell” in the Cel-Fi WAVE Portal when connecting a Cel-
Fi QUATRA 1000 Network Unit to a Small Cell.

16
 Determining the Proper Configuration
Developing a coverage plan is made easier with Nextivity’s online QUATRA PLANNER TOOL (QPT).
Simply enter information about the site and known requirements, and the QPT will return an estimated
equipment list.

The QPT algorithms are based on ever-evolving IEEE 802.16 propagation models, and will provide a very
good estimate in most cases. Once on site, it’s always good to measure actual values to ensure best
performance, and for any solution adjustments.

QUATRA PLANNER TOOL can be found at: www.cel-fi.com/quatra/plan

17
 CHAPTER 5. DEPLOYING CEL-FI QUATRA

Plan
To facilitate the installation process and the best performance at the site, it’s important to plan the
system design prior to any permanent installations.

Planning – Step 1. Site Survey

Formal Site Surveys are not required for a QUATRA installation, but some form of site survey is
recommended for best results.

For QUATRA, best practices will identify and document the following items:

SITE SURVEY

# ITEM PURPOSE

1 Project site address Mapping (can also view site exterior w/Google Earth).

2 Operator(s) of interest. Select systems.

Note:

QUATRA 1000 systems support

single carrier operation per NU/CU
combo (system).

QUATRA 2000 systems support

two carriers per NU/CU combo
(system).

3 Building size, floorplans, photos. Project size, interior structures/usage such as high
stacked materials, cubicles etc. Suspended or open
ceiling? CU mounting options (ceiling tile, wall, pole,
hanger rod).

4 Note wall construction (hollow, Interior RF propagation expectations/hardships.

masonry

5 Ask customer where service is They know! And they have expectations to meet.
good/poor/critical

6 Nice to have: Measure existing Level and Quality (speed tests, and android apps such
service (smartphone) as Network Cell Info Lite). Note on floorplans.

18
 7 Donor options (i.e. antenna Bring quality service indoors by measuring donor signal
location options, measure). quality where donor antennas are practical (where
Outdoors best, but may be indoor allowed, cable penetration available, isolated from CUs).
if well RF isolated from CU
coverage zones.

8 Discuss cabling route options Consider low coax loss to NU(s), NU placement, LAN
(LAN and Coax). cabling to CUs, NU internet connection and power
outlet.

Planning – Step 2. Estimating Hardware Needs

Given the results of the survey process, use your preferred modelling and estimation method to
generate a budgetary equipment bill of materials (BOM).

The online QUATRA PLANNER TOOL (QPT) is recommended and can also be used at this stage.

www.cel-fi.com/quatra/plan

Planning – Step 3. Determine NU Donor (Off Air or Small Cell) Location

A. If using an outdoor donor antenna
a. Donor antenna system gain (in dBi) minus coax loss should be ≥ 5 dB, for best results.

b. For best results the donor antenna should have as much isolation as possible from
the other system components, in particular the CUs.

c. CUs should be placed at least 10 meters from any NU.

d. QUATRA uses QMA connectors at the NU.

QMA-RA to N adapter kits are available from Nextivity.
Model: D12-20114-2002

Nextivity also offers a variety of other adapters specific for connectors used in the
QUATRA solutions.
www.cel-fi/com/quatra

B. If using a small cell, make sure to understand the small cell’s installation requirements,
provided by the small cell vendor.
a. Does the small cell require external access to GPS signal?

b. Is the Internet feed at the location sufficient in terms of bandwidth and availability?

c. Is there sufficient space for the Small Cell Interface (SCIF) to be used?

19
 C. If using an indoor donor antenna (QUATRA 1000 only), it is recommended that the antenna be
located close to the NU for best performance and minimal loss from antenna to NU.

Note: The NU+ANT should be well isolated from all CUs (walls etc.), to ensure full CU transmit
power.

Planning – Step 4. NU Internet Connection & WAVE Portal Account

 Network Unit requirements:
o Power

o Internet Access via LAN port

 Note: Make sure IT Staff can assist with any LAN issues if needed. A LAN
Connection Guide is available on request.
 A variety of sources for Internet connectivity hardware are available.
Options include:
 3GSTORE: https://3gstore.com/quatra_routers
 MULTITECH: https://www.multitech.com/products/gateways-routers-
modems
 DIGI: https://www.digi.com/products/cellular-solutions
 Note NU Serial number
o Located on the back of each unit

o Request portal access:

www.cel-fi.com/account-request

o Your equipment supplier authorizes portal access

Planning – Step 5. Coverage Unit (CU) Placement

Coverage is greater in open areas. Use the table to estimate where CUs should be placed. CUs should be
ceiling mounted in open areas such as large rooms and hallway intersections.

20
 Coverage Area Radius (estimated, meters)

External Antenna External Antenna

Mode (Outdoor Mode (Indoor
Area Type Small Cell Mode Donor) Donor)

Open Area (no general 24 24 20

obstructions)

Open Area + Cubicles 20 20 16

Small Offices (framed interior 16 16 13

walls)

Small Rooms (masonry interior 12 12 9

walls)

Note: Each CU has QMA-Female RF ports (x2). Passive antennas may be connected to these ports to
provide additional coverage options. Typical passive RF cabling and antenna restrictions apply.

Planning – Step 6. Coverage Unit Cabling

Determine how many cables may be needed for the planned Coverage Units.

 Each CU requires a dedicated cable to the Network Unit

o Active Ethernet hubs such as switches or routers may not be used

 Cables must be Cat 5e or better (Gigabit compliant)

 No cable may exceed 100m (325 ft.)

 You may use one QRE per CU to extend range to 200m (650 ft.)

 OK to use existing LAN cables (rather than run new cables), if they meet the minimum
requirements

EXPERT TIP: CHECK YOUR PLAN AGAINST THESE RULES

 CUs should be at least 10 meters (33 feet) away from any Network Unit

 The donor antenna should be very well isolated from all CUs (50m min; less if well separated
by walls or solid structures)

 If locating the donor antenna away from the Network Unit (roof etc.) use low loss cable and
keep antenna system gain (antenna gain minus cable loss) to no less than 3-5 dB.

21
 Install
1. Record serial numbers by location
The QUATRA Management tools, including the WAVE Portal, will reference the NUs and CUs by serial
number during commissioning.

Friendly-names may be assigned during the commissioning process.

2. Mount the hardware

22
 ENGINEERING TECH NOTE – QUATRA Cable and Connector Best Practices
Cel-Fi QUATRA uses QMA RF connectors and standard Ethernet RJ45 connectors. Proper handling
practices will help ensure optimum performance and limit potential connector strain or damage.

QMA RF CONNECTIONS

Use smaller flexible coaxial cables that are easier to route and manage behind the Network or Coverage
Unit. Rigid thicker cables (such as LMR400 or Heliax) will not fix properly and may strain and damage
the QMA connectors on the unit.

ETHERNET CABLES (RJ45)

Crimp on RJ45 connectors fit well behind a Network or Coverage Unit if

flush mounted to a solid surface. Prefabricated cables often have
large strain reliefs that can cause damage to the unit connector ports if
the unit is mounted directly to the surface. To accommodate these
types of cables, use adequate mounting practices such as the supplied
U brackets to ensure adequate space behind the units for the cables.

Damage to the unit connectors may result if a unit is hung or dropped

with a cable attached.

23
 Cable
Route and connect all cables.

NU to CU cabling.
 (Recommended) Connect CUs in order, CU1, CU2, etc.

 (Recommended) Best practices to leave a service loop in the cable, for more flexibility with
mounting location. QUATRA CU connections are lossless, so there is no penalty for excess
cable (<100m).

Note: Do not power up system at this point.

 Up to four (4) NUs may be daisy-chained.

Note: Systems continue to operate during software updates but may not be visible on the portal
during the update process (usually for 30 minutes within the first 24 hours of operation).

Please leave the systems connected to the Internet for at least 24 hours.

24
 Power
Power the Network Unit and Commission the System

IMPORTANT

 There are two ways to commission a QUATRA system

1. Using the WAVE Portal (now)
2. Using the QMT app (coming soon!)
 The QMT app is essentially a smart phone app frame for the WAVE Portal
 Available on Android-only.

 Make sure that the NU mode is properly set to Internal Antenna, External Antenna, or Small Cell
using QMT or the Cel-Fi WAVE Portal (you can access your system record using the NU serial
number.)

 If using a small cell, verify the small cell is commissioned and transmitting before
commissioning QUATRA.

1. Once a donor signal is available to the NU and CUs are connected, plug in the NU power supply.

2. QUATRA will communication with the portal via the LAN connection (Internet).

3. Follow the on-screen (WAVE portal) prompts to connect to the Cel-Fi QUATRA system.

4. Complete the commissioning steps.

NOTE: If you are commissioning a QUATRA 1000 with a Directional Antenna, the commissioning
will include the AntennaPositioning process.

Once commissioning is completed, the Cel-Fi QUATRA system should be providing service.

At this time, LEDs should be SOLID GREEN.

 If an LED is blinking GREEN, wait for the process to complete.

 If an LED is RED, please see Troubleshooting.

25
 CHAPTER 6. TROUBLESHOOTING
LED ISSUE TRY
Reset the Network Unit by unplugging the power supply, wait 5 seconds, then plug it
Network Unit back in.
(NU) error. Verify Network Unit software is up to date (using QMT or cloud portal).
If the problem persists, return Network Unit for service.
Make sure that the vents (the small openings in the plastic housing) on the units are not
Network Unit
blocked. Move the unit to a cooler area. The system will start working normally when it
overheating.
cools down.
Reset the Coverage Unit by unplugging it and then plugging it back in.
Verify Coverage Unit software is up to date (using QMT or cloud portal).
Make sure that the LAN cabling to each Coverage Unit is dedicated (not combined with
other active LAN hardware such as routers and switches). Passive connectors may be
used (i.e. punch-down blocks) but the maximum cable distance may be reduced.
Coverage Unit If a Cel-Fi QUATRA Range Extender is used to lengthen the 100 meter maximum
SOLID RED Network Unit to Coverage Unit Ethernet distance, make sure only a single Cel-Fi QUATRA
(CU) error.
Range Extender (QRE) is used per Coverage Unit. QRE is proprietary and other extenders
will not work. See QRE Troubleshooting.
Uninstall Coverage Unit and plug it into back of Network Unit with a short Ethernet cable
that is known to work. If the Coverage Unit works properly, troubleshoot the original
Ethernet cable (or QRE if used).
If the problem persists, return Coverage Unit for service.
Make sure that the vents (the small openings in the plastic housing) on the units are not
Coverage Unit
blocked. Move the unit to a cooler area. The system will start working normally when it
overheating.
cools down.
Insufficient Donor Signal. If internal antennas used for Network Unit, relocate Network
Problem with Unit where signals exist or add and Enable external antennas in Settings.
donor signal or
Mode setting. If external antennas or a small cell donor signal are used, check Mode setting, donor
source, and cable connections to the NU RF ports.
Product Registration is required for your system to operate (system is new or has been
Registration
moved to a new address). Please follow the registration instructions using QMT or the
required.
Cel-Fi WAVE portal.
If NU Mode is set to Internal Antenna, only one CU may be used. More connected CUs
Check Mode and
will result in system Disable. Disconnect additional CUs, or set NU Mode to External
number of CUs.
Antenna and connect an External Antenna.
No CU Connect at least one CU to the NU.
connected.
BLINKING CU too close to A CU is too close to the NU. Move the closest CU further away from the NU.
RED NU.
CU Disabled. Use QMT or the Cel-Fi WAVE portal to Enable the CU if it is Disabled.
The Network Unit is receiving too strong a donor signal and may operate with reduced
gain (the signal source could be any Operator’s cell tower if close enough, or it could be
another indoor cellular solution in close proximity to the Network Unit donor antennas).
Input signal
If internal antennas used, move the Network Unit to another location. You might need to
too strong.
move your system to the other side of your building.
If external antennas used, move or re-aim the external antennas away from the strong
cellular signal source.

26
 If a Small Cell donor is used, make sure the coaxial connections to the Small Cell have
the supplied attenuators installed.
Location Lock — Your system has been moved from its previous Registration location. Please reregister
Registration your system at its new location using QMT or the Cel-Fi WAVE portal, or move the
Required system back to its original location.
System The system has been remotely disabled. Please check for a notification message and
Disabled. contact your Operator or Vendor.
A Coverage Unit LAN cable may be shorted. Unplug all Coverage Units, power cycle the
system, and plug Coverage Unit cables back in one at a time to check where fault occurs
Port keeps (fault could be in cabling, a Cel-Fi QUATRA Range Extender, or a Coverage Unit).
resetting If Cel-Fi QUATRA Range Extenders are used, verify that LAN cable length on either side
of the Extenders does not exceed 100 meters.
If none of the above works, try another power supply.
If none of the above works, try another Network Unit.
Verify that a live LAN Ethernet cable is connected to the Network Unit LAN port (not the
LAN OUT port which is used to daisy-chain to another Network Unit LAN port).
Management Check LAN firewall settings to the cloud (contact your IT Administrator). The NU uses
QMT/WAVE
Connection Error port 443 for management traffic.
Verify system performance and Cel-Fi WAVE cloud portal connectivity using QMT (QMT
must have an active internet connection).
Wait. System is in a setup state. If a red error indication occurs on the NU, CU LEDs may
stay in the setup state until the NU error is cleared.
Setup in
progress
BLINKING
GREEN
If using a Small Cell donor, make sure the small cell is commissioned and transmitting.
Phones have Make test calls using just the Small Cell signal to verify its operation (temporarily
signal but can’t connect small cell antennas).
make calls Verify handset settings and compatibility against boosted channel bands and 3G/4G
technologies.
Phone not Due to network resource balancing, a handset may be directed by the network to use an
seeing boosted unrelayed channel if that channel is adequate. This is normal and should not cause a
signal service interruption.
SOLID
Software updates using QMT may take an hour or more due to Bluetooth limitations.
GREEN
Connect your NU LAN (Management) port to the Internet for faster updates.
Slow software
update.

27
 Troubleshooting: Accessories
LED ISSUE TRY
Unplug the INPUT cable, wait 5 seconds, and plug it back in. If the condition
QRE – All LEDs persists the unit needs to be replaced.
Flashing

Any RJ45 CU is not connected or cannot be seen. Check QRE to CU cable and/or CU. CU may
Green LED is off be checked by plugging directly to back of NU or QRE Output with LAN test cable.
Link is down
between Check NU – QRE – CU cables lengths (must not exceed 100 meters each, and use
NU/QRE/CU of patch panels may reduce maximum length).

CHAPTER 7. TERMINOLOGY
Active DAS. A powered DAS (Distributed Antenna System) Network.

Attenuator. An electronic device that reduces the amplitude of a signal.

Cel-Fi WAVE. A cloud portal system for managing Cel-Fi systems

Coverage Unit (CU). The Cel-Fi unit that broadcasts cellular service where coverage is needed (Service
signal).

Donor Antenna. Receives and transmits signals with the existing cellular network.

External Antenna. Antennas external to a device and connected with RF cables.

Gain, or System Gain. The amount of amplification that may be applied to the source signal.

IBwave. A solutions planner that allows you to perform complete RF distribution designs with hardware
such as Cel-Fi products.

Interference. Locations usually between multiple cell sites that may be interfering with each other and
reducing network capacity.

Isolation. Separating donor-service antennas to limit feedback potential.

MIMO. Multiple-Input Multiple-Output antenna scheme that improves capacity. Cel-Fi QUATRA is a 2x2
MIMO system, using two antennas per NU or CU.

Network Unit (NU). The Cel-Fi unit that connects to the existing cellular network (Donor signal).

Pilot Pollution. See Interference.

PoE (Power over Ethernet). To pass electrical power along with data on Ethernet cabling.

QMA connector. A spring loaded quick connect small-size RF connector used to join coaxial cables.

QMT (Cel-Fi QUATRA Management Tool) (coming soon). A Smartphone App and cloud-based
management system that allows local and remote management of Cel-Fi QUATRA systems.

QRE (Cel-Fi QUATRA Range Extender). Allows Cel-Fi QUATRA NU to CU interconnect cable lengths to
200m.

28
 RFoE. The transport of RF signals over Ethernet cable.

Server (also referred to as “Service”) Antenna. Receives and transmits signals amongst local user
devices (phones/tablets etc).

SMA Connector. A common small (Sub-Miniature A) 50 ohm RF cable connector.

Small Cell. Low-powered cellular radio access node.

Splitter (Divider/Combiner). Splits a single coaxial cable to/from multiple cables.

29
 CHAPTER 8. SPECIFICATIONS

Item Description

Supported Bands 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 12, 13, 20, 28

WCDMA Bandwidth per Band 3.84, 5, 10, 15, 20MHz contiguous UMTS/HSPA channels
LTE Bandwidth per Band 5, 10, 15, 20MHz contiguous (up to band max)
Channel Selection Full Auto with self-learn Scan
Downlink TX Power max
10dBm per 5MHz (max 16dBm per band per antenna)
(conducted)
Uplink TX Power max
Max 24dBm per band per antenna
(conducted)
Max boost bandwidth
75MHz
(all channel)
Maximum System Gain 100dB
System Gain dynamic range 0-100dB (real time echo controlled)
Internal MIMO antenna gains
0-2dBi (band dependent) V-H polarization
(QUATRA 1000 only)
External RF connections 50 ohm QMA Female
Ethernet ports Shielded Fast Ethernet ports (RJ45)
100 meter (200 meter with Cel-Fi QUATRA Range Extender
Maximum NU-CU cable length
accessory)
NU and CU LAN cabling Cat 5e or better
Bluetooth (NU and CU) Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) v4.1.2
Bluetooth (Frequency) 2402-2480 MHz
Bluetooth Power 10dBm
User Interface Red/Green LEDs, QMT Smartphone App, WAVE Cloud Portal
54 VDC @ 2.22 Amp via external supply (51.3 to 56.7 VDC
Input Power (NU only)
tolerance)
External Power Supply (NU only) 100 to 240 VAC, 47 – 63Hz
Cooling Natural convection
Network Unit dimensions 264mm (W) x 185mm (H) x 62mm (D)
Coverage Unit dimensions 225mm (W) x 185mm (H) x 36.5mm (D)
Network Unit weight 1.2kg (40.8 oz.)
Coverage Unit weight 0.83kg (29.2 oz.)
Operating temperature 0° to 40°C
Storage temperature -25° to 60°C
Relative humidity 0% to 95%, noncondensing
IP Rating 20
QUATRA versions are regional and have regional certifications.
Compliance Note: Make sure to check the specific QUATRA version against the
certification requirements for your region.
Compliance RoHS II 2011/65/EU

30
 Compliance 3GPP TS 25.143 Rel.10
Compliance 3GPP TS 36.143 Rel.10
Compliance EN 301 489-1
Compliance EN 301 489-17
Compliance EN 301 489-50
Compliance EN 301 908-1
Compliance EN 301 908-11
Compliance EN 301 908-15
Compliance EN 300 328
Compliance EN 62311
Compliance FCC Part 15, 20, 22, 24, 27
Compliance UL STD 62368-1
Compliance CSA STD C22.2 No. 62368-1
Compliance Bluetooth BQB

VERSION
QUM-V6

www.cel-fi.com
Visit our website or contact your local Nextivity representative for more information.

31
 © 2018 Nextivity Inc. All rights reserved.
All trademarks identified by ® or ™ are registered trademarks or trademarks, respectively, of Nextivity, Inc.
This document is for planning purposes only and is not intended to modify or supplement any specifications or warranties relating
to Nextivity products or services.

32