Chapter 1
Tropos 7320 Router Installation Guide
6
Location Guidelines
The Tropos 7320 router is a radio devices and therefore susceptible to interference that can
reduce throughput and range. Follow these guidelines to ensure the best performance:
Install the unit in an area where trees, buildings, and large steel structures do not obstruct
radio signals to and from the antenna. Direct line-of-sight operation is best.
Install the unit away from microwave ovens or other devices operating in the 2.4 GHz,
4.9 GHZ, or 5.8 GHz frequency range.
Install the unit away from other possible sources of 802.11a/b/g/n interference, such as
cordless phones, home spy cameras, frequency hopping (FHSS) and DSSS LAN
transceivers (non-802.11), electronic news gathering video links, radars, amateur radios,
land mobile radio services, local government sites (such as law enforcement), fixed
microwave services, local TV transmission and private fixed point transmitters.
Antenna Options
You can purchase the Tropos 7320 router with an omni-directional antenna, or use an approved
external antenna. Omni-directional antennas are best for systems requiring a signal distribution
in more than one direction. For antenna model numbers, refer to
Configurations and Attenuation Settings”
Note
Antenna(s) must be installed by a trained professional. Operating the unit with non-qualified antennas is a
violation of U.S. FCC Rules Part 15.203(c), Code of Federal Regulations, Title 47. See
Configurations and Attenuation Settings”
on page 54 for a listing of antenna options.
Site Surveys
Due to variations in component configuration, placement, and physical environment, each
installation is unique. Before installing the Tropos 7320 router, perform a site survey to
determine the optimum placement of units for maximum range, coverage, and network
performance. Consider the following factors when performing a site survey:
Data rates—Sensitivity and range are inversely proportional to data bit rates. The maximum
radio range is achieved at the lowest workable data rate. A decrease in receiver threshold
sensitivity occurs as radio data rate increases.
Antenna type and placement—Proper antenna configuration is a critical factor in
maximizing radio range. As a general rule, range increases in proportion to gain and antenna
height measured from the ground.
Physical environment—Clear or open areas provide better radio range than closed or filled
areas. The less cluttered the operating environment, the greater the range.
Obstructions—A physical obstruction, such as a building or tree, can block or hinder
communication. Avoid locating antennas in a location where there is an obstruction between
sending and receiving devices.
