Codan Radio Transportable Radio Systems User Guide - Manual (Page 22)

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4.6.2 Case Selection
There are a variety of enclosures available on the market, each with its own unique features:
• Aluminum Cases – Typically these cases are very rugged and capable of air-tight ratings for the harshest of wet en-
vironments. These cases are also a good option for outdoor deployments such as forest fi re fi ghting or search and
rescue. Secure locking mechanisms can also be provided.
• Polyethylene Cases – There are a large number of vendors providing polyethylene suitcases and briefcases in every
size and colour imaginable. There are a variety of options available with these cases including: pull-out handles and
roller wheels. Ideal for sub-urban and urban deployments.
• Polyethylene Rack Mount Cases – Larger versions of the polyethylene suitcases. These cases typically have entire
racks inside for mounting of larger communications systems such as multi-agency/multi-band systems or Trans-
portable Trunked systems with multiple channels. Typically they are for very heavy equipment and require more
than one person to lift. Ideal for permanent mounting inside vehicles or mobile command centers.
4.6 Enclosures – Choosing the right case
Depending on the nature of a typical deployment for your Transportable Radio, the enclosure can be critical to the
success or failure of your system. The following factors should be considered when selecting the type of case that is
best for your application.
• Weather – Will the system be exposed to rain, dust or icing? If so then a full weatherproof enclosure will be
required.
• Altitude – If the case is being transported in a plane or helicopter, a pressure relief valve is needed to deal with air
pressure changes that could explode the case.
• Vandalism – Will the case be located in an area where vandalism or theft is a concern? If so secure locking mecha-
nisms are required.
• Stealth or High Visibility – Does the application have a requirement for a case that is stealthy and unnoticed by the
public? Conversely is the case being located in a remote area where it is desirable to have a high visibility case that
can be easily located for retrieval?
• Heating due to Sun Exposure – Does the colour of the case matter to minimize heating due to exposure to the sun
(black versus yellow)?
• Diplomatic Package – If the case is being used by diplomats then an orange case can simplify international shipping
and bypass customs.
• Wheels – Will the case be used in an area where wheels will make it easier to move the case?
• Handles – Are the carrying handles suitable for single person lifting, multiple person lifting or transport via ma-
chines or pack animals?
• Internal/External Connectors – Does it matter if the connectors are internal or external?
• Internal Battery – Does the case need an internal battery or external battery?
• Smooth Surface – Does the case have smooth surfaces so it won’t tear upholstery in a car during transport or rip
loose a connector if it slides around in the back of a pickup?
4.6.1 Open/Closed Lid Operation
The one major benefi t of deploying a system capable of closed-lid operation is that the system may be deployed in
a much broader set of environmental situations. Assuming the case is rated for all weather conditions; it can be left
outside, exposed to rain or snow and has locking mechanisms to prevent theft or vandalism.
Applications where open lid operation is benefi cial include:
• Controlled environment to allow ventilation of internal heat created by radio.
• Easier connection of AC power supplies and reduced cost of expensive bulkhead connectors.
• Allows for more discrete deployments as cases can be made to look like standard luggage vs. electronic equipment
covered in connectors.
ET-3 Outdoor Aluminum Case
ET-4 Polyethylene Briefcase
Repeater/Base Station
ET-1 Polyethylene Case