System Manual

EkoTek System Installation and Configuration Manual

9261-8173 issue: 8 Page 10

Components

1. Hub

The hub is the central device in the mesh

network. All communications pass to and

from the hub; ideally it should be installed

near the physical centre of the network, but

it can be located anywhere within the

network.

A hub display shows alarm messages in a

similar way to a two-way pager.

For configuration, a PC running a web

browser is connected via Ethernet to the

web server running on the hub.

Other connections on the hub are for alarm relay contacts, external systems, web

access using PPP, and power input. Internal rechargeable batteries allow the hub to

function in the event of an AC power failure.

For more information on front panel operation of the hub see 9621-8276 EkoTek hub

user guide.

2. Repeater and mains-powered repeater

Repeaters form the backbone of the self-configure

radio mesh network. Each repeater automatically

forms links to nearby repeaters, to allow

messages to pass across the backbone. Two

screws hold the repeater to the ceiling or wall.

Two internal alkaline D size batteries power the

repeater. The battery voltage is continuously

monitored and reported to the hub and/or pagers,

raising an alarm should the voltage fall below set

levels, indicating that the repeater batteries

require replacement.

The mains powered repeater is functionally similar but provides terminals for wiring to

an external low voltage DC supply and contains an internal rechargeable battery

pack for battery backup in case of supply failure.

Repeaters also transmit location beacon signals, which are used by the mobile

devices to determine their location, which is sent when assistance messages are

generated.

Repeaters may form the mesh network in 3 dimensions, with repeater radio links able

to pass through walls and ceilings if necessary.

By default, all repeaters operate on the same radio channel as the hub. This is the

default configuration used by small systems.