User's Manual

4-1
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.
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. Run a serial cable outside the metal shed
and locate the Base Station there instead. Elevator shafts have
similar signal-blocking problems.
• 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 range.
• 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.
• 900MHz Spread Spectrum Phones. These phones will choke all
frequencies that the RF Terminal uses. Switch to 2.4GHz phones.
They are cheap to replace.
There are some additional measures (other than a Site Test) you can
take early on to maximize your range: