ThingMagic Astra-EX - Manual (Page 66)

Reader RF Power
M6 and Astra-EX User Guide 66
Reader RF Power
During initial installation, the reader must be properly configured to use the correct RF
power to comply with FCC or other regional regulations. DO NOT increase the power
beyond this level.
The M6 and Astra-EX supports separate read and write power level which are command
adjustable via the MercuryAPI. Power levels must be between:
– Minimum RF Power = +5 dBm
– Maximum RF Power = +31.5 dBm (+0.0/- 0.5 dB accuracy above +15 dBm)
Note
The maximum RF Power setting for the Astra-EX integrated antenna is 30dBm.
W A R N I N G !
Operation using an RF Power setting above 30 dBm requires a
professional installer.
Power Settings for Authorized Antennas and Cables
This device has been designed to operate with the antennas listed in Authorized
Antennas list using the cables in the Authorized Cables list. For any combination of
antenna and cable the maximum RF power is determined from antenna gain (Max Linear
Gain value from antenna list) and antenna cable loss (Insertion Loss value from cable list)
using the formula:
Pmax = 36 dBm - Antenna Gain + Cable Loss
For example, for the Laird S8658WPL and the ThingMagic CBL-P6 6ft cable the following
calculation can be performed:
Max linear antenna gain = 6 dBiL
Minimum cable insertion loss = 0.8 dB
Pmax = 36 - 6 + 0.8 = 30.8 dBm
The maximum RF power that may be set using this configuration is 30.8 dBm (see
Warning above).
For more information about setting the RF power, refer to Setting the Reader RF Power .