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Chapter 4
Performance Issues
Evaluating your area of planned operation
Since every operational environment is different, it is impossible for us to
tell you exactly what equipment you need and where you should put it to
achieve maximum performance from your RF System. However with 3000
ft. open area range, unless you are going through a lot of walls, you
probably won't care where the Base is located, and you probably will not
need a Relay.
Site Testing
was developed so that the user could start with a minimum
system (RF Terminal and Base Station) and determine for themselves what
their realistic operating range is, what additional equipment they need, and
where to install their Base Stations to achieve optimum performance. Some
other manufactures require expensive Site Tests before you can even
purchase any equipment from them. Our Site Testing allows you the
flexibility to Site Test whenever you choose, whether it is before you install
your system or during operation to troubleshoot RF problems. Site Testing
is the most valuable tool you have to help you achieve an efficient RF
System with maximum range.
There is also some basic information about Radio Frequency itself that can help
you make smart choices about the location and composition of your system:
•
Metal walls are almost impenetrable by RF
. If your warehouse
computer is located in a metal shed, don’t locate the Base Station
inside with the computer. Locate the Base Station outside the metal
shed instead.
•
The more walls you try to transmit through, the more the signal
breaks down.
Walls that have metal studs (interior office walls)
and concrete walls with steel rebar slightly degrade the signal with
each wall you try to go through. Metal walls may require the use of
Relay Stations to achieve adequate coverage.
•
Organic material absorbs RF energy
. If you are trying to operate in
an area with lots of densely packed organic material (bags of beans or
corn), expect and plan for reduced operating ranges.
There are some additional measures (other than a Site Test) you can take
early on to maximize your range:
•
Base Stations should be located at the center of the area of
intended coverage
. If they are not located in the center, they should
be tilted in the direction of use.
•
Raise the Base Station
. Sometimes just raising the Base Station
12 feet will dramatically increase your operating range, especially
