Exalt Installation and Management Guide
EX-r Series GigE Digital Microwave Radios
201872-003
28
2015-10-23
Initial Antenna Mounting (EX-4.5r-c GigE and EX-5r-c GigE)
The antenna must be an exact model recommended by the path and site planning engineer(s). Mount
the antenna at the proper height, mast/mounting location and polarization orientation as determined by
the path and site planning engineer(s). The model type, location, and orientation of the antenna is
critical with respect to achieving proper path clearance, as well as to mitigate external or self-
interference from nearby or collocated systems operating in or near the same frequency band.
The antenna structure must be secure and safe with respect to the mounting of the antenna,
transmission system weight, radio housing, and the combined weight of any personnel that may climb
or attach to the structure.
The combined weight of items and forces on the structure must be carefully considered in the design
and construction of the structure. This must include the weight bearing on the structure in the highest
wind conditions possible in the region, and with respect to all objects affixed to the structure.
If additional objects are affixed to the structure in the future, it may be important to evaluate both the
mechanical impact of these planned additions (with respect to wind and weight loading), as well as the
potential impact to RF interference and frequency coordination (if additional radio equipment is
anticipated). This is especially important if future equipment is likely to operate within the same
frequency band.
Once the antenna is mounted, cabled, and aligned, your goal is to never require modification. This
prior planning is important in the path and site planning stages and in construction of the antenna
structure.
Follow the antenna manufacturer’s instructions for mechanical mounting of the antenna. Ensure that
there is enough room around the antenna for alignment activities (moving the antenna in vertical and
horizontal arcs), and for the RF transmission line to connect to the antenna connector unobstructed and
within the specified bend radius requirements of the transmission line.
At this point, the antenna mounts should be fully secure to the structure, the feed of the antenna
securely mounted to the antenna (if the feed is a separate assembly), and the azimuth and elevation
adjustments not completely tightened in preparation of the antenna alignment activity. It is a good
practice to connect the transmission line to the antenna connector as early in the process as possible, to
reduce the opportunity for debris or moisture to enter either the antenna connector or the transmission
line connector. Use a connector cover or other temporary measures to ensure that the connector is kept
clear. Take extra care if the antenna is installed during inclement weather to ensure that no moisture
gets inside the antenna connector at any time.
Now the antenna can be aimed in the general direction required for the link. Use a compass, a
reference bearing, binoculars or any other similar device to point the antenna in the direction
(generally) of the far end radio, and then slightly tighten the azimuth and elevation adjustments so that
the antenna maintains its general position and is safe to be left without additional securing. Refer to the
Exalt white paper,
Antenna Alignment
, for more information on antenna alignment techniques.
Warning!
Mount the antenna in a restricted area and in a manner preventing long-term
human exposure to the transmitted RF energy. To comply with FCC and Industry Canada
regulations, the minimum safe distance from the antenna for continuous human exposure is
10'/3m.
