2
Planning Your System
After determining which sensors you want and where you want to install them, make
sure you have the correct number of Nodes to support those sensors.
The maximum distance between two Nodes and a Gateway and a Node will vary
depending on many factors including environment, height, terrain and RF noise.
To get optimal transmission range:
• Ideally, locate the devices with unobstructed lines of sight between them. A large
hill or large metal barrier will block signals. If transmitting under a canopy or in
an orchard, range will be reduced.
•
Mount the devices as high above the ground or the highest crop height as
possible
. The higher they are mounted, the longer the transmission distance.
• The Gateway should be placed in a window or as close to the outside of the
building and as close to the Nodes as possible; higher is better.
10 feet
3 m
2400 - 4000 ft
730 - 1220 m
6 feet
2 m
300 ft / 90 m
6 feet
2 m
1700 - 2000 ft
515 - 610 m
300 - 500 ft
90 -150 m
Orchard, under canopy
Line of sight, above highest
crop height or open field
Gateway inside or behind a wall.
(Line of sight, above highest
crop height or open field.)
Gateway outside in a Universal Shelter.
(Line of sight, above highest
crop height or open field.)
4 feet
1.2 m
™
This illustration shows how installation height affects general transmission distances. Many
variables affect transmisstion distance. Results will vary based on environmental conditions. To
extend range, see Appendix A: Using a Long Range External Antenna, page 17.
