Chapter 4 MC3Lite System Maintenance
Regularly perform these basic maintenance procedures to ensure optimal performance of
your Mobile Collection hardware system.
• Inspecting Antenna Connectors and Cables on page 39
• Inspecting the Antenna Base and Whip on page 39
• Cleaning the Antenna on page 40
• Replacing the Antenna Gasket on page 40
Inspecting the Antenna Connectors and Cables
The connections and cables to the radio typically experience the most wear. Many
customers remove the radio on a daily basis. Removing and installing the connectors daily
can cause the cable and connector to begin separating. This is considered normal wear and
tear.
The coax cables (used in the magnetic mount base) can be damaged if they are
accidentally pinched in a window or door jamb. Any damage to the coax cables or the
connectors leads to decreased read performance and transmitter failures due to high
reflected power.
Create a regular maintenance schedule and inspect the following.
• Coax cables.
◦ Ensure the cable is not loose from the connector.
◦ Inspect for hard kinks or bends in the cable, which can cause an electrical short.
◦ Inspect for cuts or nicks in the cable.
• Coax shield. Do not expose the shield at the connector or anywhere along the cable.
• Connector. The center pin of the connector should not be recessed or pushed in to the
connector housing.
Replace the entire antenna base if the cables or connectors are damaged. Contact Itron
Support Service if you need any assistance.
Inspecting the Antenna Base and Whip
The antenna whip is the radiating element that both transmits and receives the signals for
the Mobile Collection System. The whip attaches to a base. The base is either mounted
through the roof of the vehicle, or is a magnet mount. Moisture can build up between the
base and the whip. This moisture buildup leads to oxidation and corrosion which results in a
loss of signal quality. Evidence of moisture buildup (oxidation) is usually light and hazy in
appearance. The appearance of darker areas or spots indicates a more severe condition
which may lead to corrosion.
MC3Lite Vehicle Preparation and Hardware Installation Guide TDC-1548-002 39
Proprietary and Confidential
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