Baseline Systems Ethernet Radio Antenna - Manual

Ethernet Radio Antenna
Installation Guide
1-866-294-5847
Rev 8.19.2014
www.baselinesystems.com
Choosing a Location for the Antenna
 The key to the overall robustness of the radio link is the height of the antenna. In general,
Ethernet radio units with a higher antenna placement will have a better communication
link. An adjustment of as little as 2 feet in antenna placement can resolve some noise
problems. Keep in mind, however, that an antenna can be placed too high.
 If the signal level is low (below 40) there may be a line-of-site issue with the antenna. The
antenna may need to be redirected or increased in height.
 When using an external antenna, placement of that antenna is critical to a solid data link.
Other antennas in close proximity are a potential source of interference. The Radio Statistics
on the Status page of the FreeWave configuration interface can help identify potential
problems. To access the configuration interface, refer to the Change Additional Radio
Settings section in Baseline’s Ethernet Radio Configuration Guide.
 When interference is excessively high (above 70) due to a pager or cellular telephone
tower, a band-pass filter may help eliminate this out-of-band noise.
 Ensure as much vertical separation as possible between all antennas. Baseline
recommends 10’ of vertical separation from other 900MHz or other high power antennas.
Antenna and Cable Guidelines
 Ensure the antenna is of proper characteristics for Ethernet radio network being installed.
(For example, in a 900MHz network, the antenna being installed must be capable of
covering the 902MHz to 928MHz bandwidth.)
 As energy travels through the cable between the antenna and the radio, some of that
energy is lost. The longer the cable, the greater the loss. Ensure that the cable is of proper
length to preserve the integrity of the signal.
 Always use LMR400 low loss cables or better. Baseline offers directional and omni-
directional antennas with cable lengths ranging from 3 to 150 feet.
 Make sure the net gain of the antenna cable assembly is no less than 0dBm and no more
than 6dBm.
 During installation, ensure all antenna cable connections are secure without over
tightening.
 When coax connections will be exposed to the elements, take special care to
weatherproof each connection.
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