Elpro Technologies 450U-E Wireless Ethernet Modem & Device Server User Manual
Rev Version 1.0.12-Beta7
www.cooperbussmann.com/wirelessresources
11
CHAPTER 2 - INSTALLATION
General
2.0
The 450U-E modules are housed in a rugged aluminium case, suitable for DIN-rail mounting. Terminals will accept wires
up to 2.5 mm
2
(12 gauge) in size.
All connections to the module must be SELV (Safety Extra Low Voltage). Normal 110-250V mains
supply must not be connected to any terminal of the 450U-E module. Refer to Section 2.2 Power
Supply .
Before installing a new system, it is preferable to bench test the complete system. Configuration problems are easier to
recognize when the system units are close to one another. Following installation, the most common problem is poor
communications caused by incorrectly installed antennas, radio interference on the same channel, or the radio path being
inadequate. If the radio path is a problem (i.e. path too long, or obstructed), a higher performance antenna or a higher
mounting point for the antenna may rectify the problem. Alternately, use an intermediate 450U-E module as a repeater.
The 450U-E Installation Guide provides an installation drawing appropriate to most applications. Further information is
detailed below.
Each 450U-E module should be effectively earthed via the "GND" screw on the back of the module - this is to ensure that
the surge protection circuits inside are effective.
Antenna Installation
2.1
The 450U-E module will operate reliably over large distances however the achievable distances will vary with the
application, radio configuration, location of antennas, the degree of radio interference, and obstructions (such as buildings
or trees) to the radio path.
A 450U-E can achieve up to 50 Km (31 miles) with a directional antenna attached.
To achieve the maximum transmission distance, the antennas should be raised above intermediate obstructions so the
reliably with some obstruction of the radio path, although the
reliable distance will be reduced. Obstructions which are close to either antenna will have more of a blocking affect than
obstructions in the middle of the radio path.
The 450U-E modules provide a diagnostic feature which displays the radio signal strength of transmissions (refer Chapter
Diagnostics ).
Line-of-sight paths are only necessary to obtain the maximum range. Obstructions will reduce the range, or degrade a
reliable path. A larger amount of obstruction can be tolerated for shorter distances however an obstructed path requires
testing to determine if the path will be reliable - refer to section CHAPTER 4 - of this manual for more information on
determining a reliable path.
Where it is not possible to achieve reliable communications between two 450U-E modules, then a third 450U-E module
may be used to receive the message and re-transmit it. This module is referred to as a repeater. This module may also
have a host device connected to it.
Bench test and Demo System setup
Care must be taken with placement of antenna in relation to the radios and the other antennas. Strong radio signals can
saturate the receiver, hindering the overall radio communications.
When setting up a bench test/demo or a short range system the following considerations should be taken into account
for optimum radio performance and reduced signal saturation.
If using Demo antennas on each end, fit 20dB 5W coax attenuator in-line with the coax cable.
Antennas must be kept a suitable distance from each other. Check the receive signal strength on the
of the module and ensure the level is not greater than -45dB