User's Manual

10 TWACS
®
- ORION
®
for CENTRON
®
Meter User Guide
RF Hardware Installation
The following environmental factors or conditions may affect RF
transmission between the ORION unit and the EMTR located at the electric
meter.
• Metal Objects
Metal objects significantly reduce the strength of the signals reaching
the receiver. Ensure that no metal cladding, cabling, mirrors, water
tanks, refrigerators, pipes, etc. are near the ORION or EMTR. The
straight-line path between both units should be as unobstructed as
possible.
N OTE A small, single item, such as a pipe situated half-way between the
transmitter and receiver, is less likely to have any affect on the signal
strength than a larger item(s).
• Thick walls or foliage
Thick walls or foliage between the transmitter and receiver can
reduce the signal strength. Brick, aluminum siding, thick stone walls,
and concrete can impede signal reception.
Avoid dense foliage between the RF units and, when possible,
provide a reserve “growth” clearance to accommodate the growth of
foliage on bushes and trees during spring and summer.
N OTE Radio signals can pass more easily through plasterboard walls,
fiberglass, and wood paneling than the previously listed materials.
• Local radio interference
The close proximity of a cell phone mast, a taxi operator's base
station, or large electrical equipment may provide strong radio
interference. The AMR radio devices should be relocated if these
interferences are present.
• Position of the ORION and/or EMTR
These are important factors in RF deployment. The ORION antenna
is omni-directional. The signal radiates 360 degrees. The EMTR
antenna alignment is parallel to the front cover of the electric meter,
and is the most sensitive RF reception surface.
Face the front of the meter/EMTR toward the ORION transmitter
when possible; even on opposite sides of a building. This allows
maximum communication surface and distance between the units.
Allow for some additional power margin in the signal strength to
accommodate seasonal or other changes in environmental conditions.
In the future, after installation, the site owner should inform you of any
alterations to the site that could affect radio performance.