ADS Environmental Services XiLog+ QR 775026 A0 - Manual (Page 22)

ADS XiLog+ System User Manual
16
Performing a Signal Strength Test
GSM network coverage can vary considerably both day-to-day and location-
to-location. Therefore, XiLog+ data loggers are equipped with a GSM signal
strength test feature for assessing the logger’s ability to establish contact with
the GSM network from the site during the deployment process.
The test includes deploying the data logger and then measuring the GSM
signal strength a designated number of times at established intervals. Once
the test is complete, the signal strengths are averaged and the resulting signal
strength is displayed. Conducting the test under the default configuration
involves taking one measurement every 10 seconds for 5 minutes for a total of
30 measurements. This configuration may be modified as necessary.
Note: ADS strongly recommends performing this step during each
logger deployment, even at locations that have been used successfully
in the past. GSM coverage can vary even over a short period of time.
Note: To perform a signal strength test, a laptop computer with
PrimeWorks must be available on-site.
Test the signal strength in the following way:
1. Prepare the deployment site.
2. Program the logger to test the signal strength using PrimeWorks, and
then disconnect the XiLog+ from the computer.
3. Position the logger in the location at which it will be deployed
(including closing any doors or replacing any covers).
4. Wait until the test is complete, and recover the logger.
5. Connect the laptop to the logger, and examine the results. The average
signal strength should display.
 Strong A signal strength over 25% indicates a strong signal that
should enable the Xilog+ to log onto the GSM network regularly.
 Adequate A signal strength from 21 to 25% indicates a
borderline signal that may result in an occasional communication
failure with the GSM network. Under this condition, repeat the
test. If the same result occurs, consider installing the logger in
another location, when available. If another site is not available,
install the XiLog+ in the existing location, but monitor
communications closely.
 Inadequate A signal strength below 21% indicates the signal is
insufficient for communications across the GSM network. If this
occurs, repeat the test. If the same result occurs, relocate the