WaveRider NCL1170, User Manual

Page: 51 / 97

5 Testing and Deployment
APCD–NC006–A 37
5.2 Optimizing Signal Strength
5.2.1 Running the Continuous Transmit (Tx) Test
This test should only be used when setting up a Master and the first Station of a new network.
The purpose of this test is to send a continuous stream of messages from an NCL1170 Master
to a Station which receives and discards the messages, or to a spectrum analyzer for signal
monitoring. The Radio Packet Error Rate (PER) is displayed at a Station receiving the
Continuous Transmit messages and using that information, an installer aligns the antenna
accordingly. Refer to
section 6.2, Radio Packet Error Rate (PER) , on page 44 for more
information.
You will need one NCL1170 configured as a Master. At the other end of the link, you can have
an NCL1170 Station or a spectrum analyzer. The following procedure describes the test for a
Master NCL1170 and one Station NCL1170. If you are using a spectrum analyzer, adjust the
antenna for maximum received signal.
CAUTION: Do NOT run this test in a working network. Doing so will cause
network operations to slow down. These tests must be performed individually on
each NCL1170 unit.
1. Ensure that the NCL1170s (one Master and one Station) have been configured and
tested.
2. Deploy the Master and Station connecting the antennas as required.
WARNING!
Antennas and associated transmission cable must be installed
by qualified personnel. Failure to terminate the antenna port
correctly can permanently damage the NCL1170. WaveRider
assumes no liability for failure to adhere to this recommendation
or to recognized general safety precautions.
3. Connect a terminal at each NCL1170 using a serial cable and log into each device.
4. At the Master NCL1170 console terminal, type
<radio txTest start>
to begin the
Continuous Transmit Test. “Radio Tx Test On” is displayed above the
NCL1170>
prompt when the test is running.
5. At the Station NCL1170 console terminal, type
<radio per continuous>
to begin
displaying the Radio PER. Refer to section 6.2, Radio Packet Error Rate (PER) , on
page 44 for more information.
6. Using the information from Radio PER, align the antenna at the NCL1170 Station so
that the number of packets missed is at a minimum rate.