Product Manual

WeatherHawk®

Toll free in USA: 866-670-5982, International: 435-227-9802, FAX: 435-227-9749 Printed 2013

Cable Lengths

The maximum cable length for RS232 communications is 75 feet. If a user requires a longer cable length than this,

an MD485-KT Communications Module Kit can be used. The MD485-KT Communications Module Kit enables

the distance of direct communications to be lengthened to approximately 4000 feet of cable. However, if multiple

WeatherHawk stations are used as in a network, the total combined cable length cannot exceed 4000 feet.

Grounding Issues

Outdoor cables may be subject to induced currents due to lightning or other environmental factors. Therefore proper

grounding is imperative to avoid damage to the WeatherHawk and/or any connected host device or computer.

To minimize the possibility of equipment damage or personal hazard, we strongly recommend a

qualified electrician design and install the grounding and data isolation components of a directly wired

installation.

Wireless Communications

WeatherHawk wireless stations use spread-spectrum radios to transmit the data over short distances. These radios

must have line-of-sight between the station and the radio base station connected to a host computer to operate

effectively. WeatherHawk wireless stations are available in three frequency ranges: 916 MHz, 922 MHz, and 2.4

GHz. Higher gain antennas are also available to increase the transmission distance of the data.

Transmission Ranges

Typical line-of-sight transmission ranges are listed below:

 Up to ½ mile (0.8 km) for the frequencies 916 MHz and 922 MHz

 Up to ¼ mile (0.4 km) for the frequency 2.4 GHz

 Up to 7 miles if optional higher gain antennas are used on both the WeatherHawk station and the RF base

station

The transmission ranges assume standard WeatherHawk antennas are used at the computer site. User-

supplied, higher gain antennas at the base station and/or on the WeatherHawk can affect the

transmission range.

The ranges assume no obstructions are in the line-of-sight.

Line-of-Sight

Line-of-sight is defined as a straight path between a transmitting and receiving antenna that is unobstructed by

intermediate topography or obstructions (see Figure 2). A clear line-of-sight is required to achieve the optimum

transmission range. Since the effect of obstructions on transmission range can vary, radio transmission tests should

be performed before permanently installing a WeatherHawk station if obstructions lie within the line-of-sight.