GE MDS 05-4558A01 - Manual (Page 12)

05-4558A01, Rev. C MDS Mercury Series Startup Guide 9
In general, signal levels stronger than –80 dBm will provide reliable
communication in the network. RSSI measurements and Wireless
Packet Statistics are based on multiple samples over a period of sev-
eral seconds. The average of these measurements is displayed by the
RSSI screen.
In the steps below, the path to the Menu System item is shown in bold
text.
Procedure
1. Verify the Remote is associated with an Access Point unit by
observing the LINK LED. It should be on or blinking.
2. View and record the Wireless Packets Dropped and Received Error
rates. This information will be used later.
Main Menu>Performance Information>Packet Statistics
3. Read the RSSI level at the Remote.
Main Menu>Performance Information>Internal Radio Status
4. Optimize RSSI by slowly adjusting the direction of the antenna.
Watch the RSSI indication for several seconds after making each
adjustment so that the RSSI accurately reflects any change in the
link signal strength. The less negative the number, the stronger the
signal.
5. View the Wireless Packets Dropped and Received Error rates at the
point of maximum RSSI level. They should be the same or lower
than previously noted.
Main Menu>Performance Information>Packet Statistics
If the RSSI peak results in an increase in the Packets Dropped and
Received Error numbers, the antenna may be aimed at an undes-
ired signal. Try a different antenna heading.
NOTE: Access Points and Remote stations must use the same antenna
polarity (vertical or horizontal) or signal strengths will be
attenuated by 20 dB or more.