Crestron electronic STX-1700CXP - Manual (Page 35)

Crestron STX-1700CXP 2-Way RF Wireless Touchpanel
Operations Guide – DOC. 6144 2-Way RF Wireless Touchpanel: STX-1700CXP • 31
Appendix B: Optimum RF Reception Guidelines
Many factors can affect the reliability of RF communication between an RF gateway
and an RF touchpanel. While an effort has been made to determine operating
specifications, some specifications are not constant. RF Communication can be
limited by several factors including but not limited to EMI (electromagnetic
interference), intervening objects, antenna orientation and receiver placement. To
obtain maximum reliability and performance, some basic rules for installing RF
transceivers are listed below.
Minimize Interference
RF reception range can be hindered by spurious EMI noise that may interfere with or
mask the desired frequency thereby reducing useable range. EMI is generated by any
electrical device at various RF noise levels depending on the device. Sources of EMI
include computers, video equipment, digital processors, lighting dimmers, lighting
ballasts, motors or any large AC source. Every effort should be made to separate any
RF transceiver from these sources of RF noise including Audio Visual equipment in
racks. If a gateway must be installed in an equipment rack, make sure you have
ample separation between the equipment and the gateway.
NOTE: Check any 802.11b equipment operating near the Cresnet system to see that
it is using only channels that are not being used by the STX-1700CXP touchpanel. If
necessary, change the touchpanel’s band setting to avoid interference. Refer to
“Identity Codes” on page 7 for details.
Gateway Placement
Optimum reception for any RF transceiver is obtained by installing the gateway
transceiver in an open area or shelf with a clear line of sight (no obstructions
between gateway and receiver). Crestron recommends that the gateway is at least
five to six feet high for best results. Avoid placing transceivers or transmitters at a
low height or on the ground. Placing RF equipment near metal objects, walls, corners
or metal enclosures will compromise RF propagation and reception. Try to avoid
installing gateways in equipment racks, service rooms, electrical closets or in rooms
other than that which the panel or transmitter is located.
Antenna Orientation
The antenna orientation on Crestron gateways has considerable effect on range and
reliability. Optimum performance is obtained by setting the antenna horizontally
(parallel to the ground). When absolutely necessary, two alternate orientations are
possible – each will be less effective than the horizontal orientation:
Point the antenna vertically
Point the antenna at a right angle to the gateway.
These may allow for rack or equipment closet doors to be shut but these orientations
may also compromise reception. Never point the antenna downward or directly
parallel to the front panel, this will decrease range and reliability. Refer to
illustrations on the next page for examples of the different antenna orientations.
NOTE: RF propagation is best from the sides of the antenna.