User's Manual

CellTrackIT user manual Version 0.9 Page 13

Figure 5. Repeater to Node Receiver Ranges

3. Determine location of Node Receiver and Repeaters

Node Location. Network designing on the site map requires that the designer

first identify the node receiver location. Ideally, the node receiver will be

centrally placed on the site. This would allow for more site area coverage

which will ensure more transponders will be within range. However, in some

cases placing the node receiver in a central location may not be feasible.

Additionally, the only location available may be the clubhouse or the main

office of which neither may be centrally located. The designer then must be

flexible whenever placing the node receiver. Regardless of choice, the node

receiver possible locations need to be identified first. When placing the node

receiver consider where the Personal Computer will be located since it is

attached directly to the node receiver.

Node receiver location specification:

Accessible for installation, dry

Central location on the site if possible

Office environment, ambient temperatures within 32 °F to 104 °F

Length of cable to externally mounted antenna at roof height < 60 feet

Permanent mains point available or can be installed

Permanent dedicated telephone connection available or can be installed

The node receiver is able to receive both transponders and repeaters, by

alternating automatically between these 2 modes. Therefore, the node

receiver can be used as a transponder receiver.

Once node is located on the site map, draw a circle with node location as the

center and 75% of the first tier range determined in stage 2 for this site as the

radius. Reason for using only 75% of the first tier range, is the assumption to

use a 60 feet antenna cable, which introduces more attenuation than a 20

feet one used for repeaters. If the node antenna cable can be 20 feet long,

use full range.

When drawing the circle, verify the scale on the map. Incorrect scale will lead

to wrong distance, therefore wrong planning. Transponders could be out of

range.