Exalt Communications, Inc.
r-series
Installation and Management Manual
5000007 (ETSI)
29
2007-02-12 (draft)
Initial Antenna Mounting r-(x)c Series models only)
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.
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.
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
!