Campbell Scientific RF401-series and RF430-series Spread Spectrum Data Radios/Modems - Manual (Page 13)

RF401-series and RF430-series Spread
Spectrum Radio/Modems
1. Introduction
This manual discusses the RF401-series and RF430-series spread spectrum
radios. Spread spectrum radios spread the normally narrowband information
signal over a relatively wide band of frequencies. This allows the
communications to be more immune to noise and interference from RF sources
such as pagers, cellular phones and multipath. The RF401-series and RF430-
series radios reduce susceptibility to RF interference from other spread
spectrum devices by providing user-selectable frequency hopping patterns.
You do not need a communications authority license for the
RF401-series or RF430-series configurations described in this
manual including U.S. Government Agencies regulated by NTIA
Annex K. Spread spectrum radios, like all FCC Part 15 devices,
are not allowed to cause harmful interference to licensed radio
communications and must accept any interference that they
receive. Most Campbell Scientific users operate in open or remote
locations where interference is unlikely. If there is a problem,
interference can be reduced using methods such as moving the
device, reorienting or using a different type of antenna, or adding
RF shielding.
The RF401-series and RF430-series radios can provide up to one mile
transmission range when using an inexpensive whip antenna. The radios can
provide up to 10 mile transmission range when using a higher gain directional
antenna at ideal conditions. Compatible antennas are described in Section 4.4.
Line-of-sight obstructions and RF interference will affect the
transmission distance. See Appendix H, Distance vs. Antenna
Gain, Terrain, and Other Factors, for a discussion of antenna gain
and other factors affecting distance.
You may test the radio communications onsite by using the 21107 900 MHz
Spread Spectrum Demo Kit; contact Campbell Scientific for more information.
Campbell Scientific does not recommend using RF401-
series and RF430-series radios in networks containing
RF450 radios. The RF450 radios will interfere with the
transmission of the RF401-series and RF430-series radios.
No product using the 24XStream radio, including the RF416
and RF432, will be available for sale in Europe after
1/1/2015 due to changes in EU legislation. Consequently,
purchase of the RF416 or RF432 is not recommended for
use in Europe in new networks that may require future
expansion.
NOTE
NOTE
CAUTION
CAUTION
1