User's Manual

Chapter 4

Performance Issues

Evaluating your area of planned operation

Since every operational environment is different, it is impossible for us to

tell you exactly what equipment you need and where you should put it to

achieve maximum performance from your RF System. However with 2.5

miles of open area range, unless you are going through a lot of walls, you

probably won't care where the Base is located.

Site Testing was developed so that the user could start with a minimum

system (RF Terminal and Base Station) and determine for themselves what

their realistic operating range is, what additional equipment they need, and

where to install their Base Stations to achieve optimum performance. Some

other manufactures require expensive Site Tests before you can even

purchase any equipment from them. Our Site Testing allows you the

flexibility to Site Test whenever you choose, whether it is before you install

your system or during operation to troubleshoot RF problems. Site Testing

is the most valuable tool you have to help you achieve an efficient RF

System with maximum range.

There is also some basic information about Radio Frequency itself that can help

you make smart choices about the location and composition of your system:

 Metal walls are almost impenetrable by RF. If your warehouse

computer is located in a metal shed, don’t locate the Base Station

inside with the computer. Locate the Base Station outside the metal

shed instead.

 The more walls you try to transmit through, the more the signal

breaks down. Walls that have metal studs (interior office walls)

and concrete walls with steel rebar slightly degrade the signal with

each wall you try to go through. Metal walls may require the use of

Relay Stations to achieve adequate coverage.

 Organic material absorbs RF energy. If you are trying to operate in

an area with lots of densely packed organic material (bags of beans or

corn), expect and plan for reduced operating ranges.

There are some additional measures (other than a Site Test) you can take

early on to maximize your range:

 Base Stations should be located at the center of the area of

intended coverage. If they are not located in the center, they should

be tilted in the direction of use.

 Raise the Base Station. Sometimes just raising the Base Station a

foot or two will dramatically increase your operating range,

especially in a warehouse or grocery store environment. Mounting