User's Manual

Exalt Communications, Inc.
Exalt i-Series Installation and Management Guide
5000001 60
2007-04-15
The antenna structure must be secure and safe with respect to the mounting of the
antenna, transmission system weight, and the combined weight of any personnel that may
climb or attach to the structure. The combined weight of items and forces on the structure
must be carefully considered in the design and construction of the structure. This must
include the weight bearing on the structure in the highest wind conditions possible in the
region, and with respect to all objects affixed to the structure.
If additional objects are affixed to the structure in the future, it may be important to
evaluate both the mechanical impact of these planned additions (with respect to wind and
weight loading), as well as the potential impact to RF interference and frequency
coordination (if additional radio equipment is anticipated). This is especially important if
future equipment is likely to operate within the same frequency band.
Once the antenna is mounted, cabled, and aligned, your goal is to never require
modification. This prior planning is important in the path and site planning stages and in
construction of the antenna structure.
Follow the antenna manufacturer’s instructions for mechanical mounting of the antenna.
Ensure that there is enough room around the antenna for alignment activities (moving the
antenna in vertical and horizontal arcs), and for the RF transmission line to connect to the
antenna connector unobstructed and within the specified bend radius requirements of the
transmission line.
At this point, the antenna mounts should be fully secure to the structure, the feed of the
antenna securely mounted to the antenna (if the feed is a separate assembly), and the
azimuth and elevation adjustments not completely tightened in preparation of the antenna
alignment activity. It is a good practice to connect the transmission line to the antenna
connector as early in the process as possible, to reduce the opportunity for debris or
moisture to enter either the antenna connector or the transmission line connector. Use a
connector cover or other temporary measures to ensure that the connector is kept clear.
Take extra care if the antenna is installed during inclement weather to ensure that no
moisture gets inside the antenna connector at any time.
Now the antenna can be aimed in the general direction required for the link. Use a
compass, a reference bearing, binoculars or any other similar device to point the antenna
in the direction (generally) of the far end radio, and then slightly tighten the azimuth and
elevation adjustments so that the antenna maintains its general position and is safe to be
left without additional securing. Refer to the Exalt white paper, Antenna Alignment, for
more information on antenna alignment techniques.
Transmission Line from Antenna to Egress
Most installations use coaxial transmission line for the connection between the antenna
and the radio device. Coaxial transmission line can either have a solid or braided shield.
Solid-shield cables are more resistant to external signal coupling and interference, but are
generally stiffer than braided cables. Consult the path or site engineer(s) to ensure that the
proper materials are chosen for the installation and that all factors were considered. Refer
to the Exalt white paper, Transmission Line for Exalt Indoor Radio Systems.
Generally, the larger the diameter of the transmission line, the lower the loss. So for
longer runs of transmission line, larger diameter cables are highly advised. However, at