User's Manual

2 OWS Field Installation
OWS Field Installation
Planning Your Installation
To ensure safe and durable wiring, the installation of the Strix OWS must follow the appropriate electrical and
building codes. Observe the National Electrical Code (NEC) requirements, unless local codes in your area
take precedence over the NEC code.
Local Guidelines
The Strix OWS is a radio device and therefore susceptible to interference that can reduce throughput and
range. Follow these simple guidelines to optimize product performance:
◗ Install the OWS in an area where trees, buildings, and large steel structures do not obstruct radio
signals to and from the antenna(s). Direct line-of-sight operation is always best.
◗ Install the OWS away from microwave ovens or other devices operating in the 2.4 GHz range.
◗ Install the OWS away from other possible source of 2.4 GHz WLAN interference, such as cordless
phones, home surveillance equipment, frequency-hopping (FHSS) and DSSS Local Area Network
transceivers, electronic news gathering video links, radars, amateur radios, land mobile radio services,
local government sties (for example, law enforcement), fixed microwave services, local TV
transmission, and private fixed point transmitters.
Site Surveys
Due to variations in product configuration, placement, and the physical environment, each installation is
unique. Before installing the Strix OWS, we recommend that you perform a site survey to determine the
optimum placement of the product to achieve the best possible range, coverage and network performance.
Consider the following points:
◗ Data Rates—Sensitivity and range are inversely proportional to data bit rates. The maximum wireless
range is achieved at the lowest data rate. A decrease in receiver threshold sensitivity occurs as wireless
data increases.
◗ Antenna Type and Placement—Using the correct antenna configuration is a critical factor when trying
to maximize wireless range. As a general rule, the range increases in proportion to the antenna height
and gain.
◗ Physical Environment—Clear or open areas offer better wireless coverage than closed or filled areas.
The less cluttered the operating environment, the greater the range.
◗ Obstructions—A physical obstruction, such as a building or tree, can block or hinder wireless services.
Avoid placing antennas in locations where there is an obstruction between the sending and receiving
antennas.
◗ Building Materials—Wireless penetration is influenced by the building materials used in construction.
For example, drywall construction permits greater range than concrete blocks. Steel and alloy materials
can be a barrier to wireless signals.
◗ Diversity—The Strix OWS supports RX diversity, which requires two antennas.
Power Source
The Strix OWS supports both AC and DC input power.