
EK280
Application Manual
48
7.1.2.2 Checking GSM field strength
Before starting a data transfer via the modem, you must ensure that there is adequate reception field strength.
For an EK280 with mains power supply, reconnect the mains voltage now.
a) Opening the test time window on the device
i
The test time window only needs to be open if none of the time windows 1 to 4 are open.
Move the cursor to the "
Serv.
" tab in the EK280's display, then to
Interfaces> internal modem > CWTst
Press the ENTER button in order to enter the length of the test time window in minutes
"
0
"
flashes.
Move the cursor with the arrow keys
or
to the digits and change these with the arrow keys
or
to 10, for example.
After the desired digits have been changed, press the ENTER button in order to confirm the input. It
is possible to abort the entry by pressing the ESC button.
i
Only enable the test time window for battery operation for as long as is required. Each time the
test time window is open, this reduces the life of the EK280 battery.
The editable time window is not directly reflected in the forecast of the remaining battery life of the
batteries"
BatR
" of the EK280. Therefore the forecast battery life is not changed if the time window
is changed. Past time windows and data transfers are however used in the remaining battery
capacity "
BatRK
" and remaining service life forecast calculation.
b) Display GSM field strength
Check whether corresponding bars indicating the reception level for the internal modem ("i") appear
on the main EK280 display.
Move the cursor to the "
Serv.
" tab in the EK280's display, then to
Interfaces > internal modem > GSM and GPRS > GSM.L
The percentage field strength is now displayed under
GSM.L
.
In order to update the level display, move the cursor to
GSM.L
, please press the
ENTER
key of the
EK280 and then wait approx. 30 seconds. This makes it possible to determine the best installation
position for an external GSM antenna.
i
With a field strength below 50% data transfer issues may be encountered. You can remedy this in
the majority of cases with an external antenna, mounted somewhere suitable.