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6 Data communication
Data from the Void Scanner probe is transmitted by cable to the Void Scanner Wi-Fi box. The data is then sent via
Wi-Fi signal to the PC running Cavity Profiler – VS software. Commands from the software to the probe travel in the
opposite direction.
The Wi-Fi signal is broadcast over a standard Wi-Fi frequency of 2.4 GHz. The system uses the IEEE 802.11 b/g/n
wireless standard.
The PC in use should have a suitable, integrated Wi-Fi card or external Wi-Fi dongle using the 802.11 wireless
standard. See section 7, for details of connecting your PC to the Void Scanner Wi-Fi box.
The Void Scanner Wi-Fi box can transmit a wireless signal over a distance of over 50 m as long as there is a clear
line-of-sight between the Void Scanner Wi-Fi box and the PC.
There are a number of external environmental factors that can have the effect of reducing the maximum achievable
range, or preventing connection between the two devices. The most obvious is the presence of solid objects in the
path of the Wi-Fi signal, for example walls, rock masses or machinery.
Where possible, ensure that there is a clear view between the Void Scanner Wi-Fi box and the PC.
6.1 Data channels
It is also possible that the Void Scanner Wi-Fi link could be affected by other Wi-Fi networks operating on 2.4 GHz.
Although 802.11 devices tend to work cooperatively, sharing channel capacity, interference is possible in certain
circumstances.
There are 14 channels available on a 2.4 GHz network. These are as follows:
Channel
Frequency (GHz)
1
2.412
2
2.417
3
2.422
4
2.427
5
2.432
6
2.437
7
2.442
8
2.447
9
2.452
10
2.457
11
2.462
12
2.467
13
2.472
14
2.484
By default, the Void Scanner Wi-Fi box is set to ‘AutoSelect’ a channel. Occasionally, if you suspect interference
from another Wi-Fi network in the vicinity, you may consider it necessary to manually change to a specific channel.
