User guide

Raven EDGE/GPRS for Cingular - User Guide, version 2.31 121
Frequently Asked Questions and Technical Support
The optimal range for AirLink modems is an RF Coverage (RSSI value) of -60 to -95. RF coverage
between -95 to -105 DBm will often still register, however functionality at this range can be greatly
reduced and registration can become difficult. Any devices with an RSSI below -105 DBm will
likely fail to register on a regular basis.
When addressing RF coverage ensure the antenna ch
oice i
s appropriate for the device and frequen-
cies required.
Antennas for cellular communication are commonly
omni-directional and
either dual-band or
multi-band. They come in a variety of shapes and mounting confirgurations to suit several differ-
ent types of needs.
While AirLink does sell a limited selection of antennas
and
antenna accessories, these are by no
means all that are available or usable with your Raven. There are several suppliers of cellular
accessories with a much wider selection of antennas designed to cater to a broader variety of situa-
tions.
Dual-band
Dipole
Dipole is a common antenna type connecting directly to the Raven and extending out in a single
strai
ght
wire.
The short dipole antenna (also known as a “rubber du
ck”) is a
good desktop, portable antenna for
use in areas with good signal strength and low electrical interference.
Mounts
Antennas can be mounted in a variety of ways (magnet, permanent, suction to a window, sticky
tape, etc) which can allow you to
move the antenna away from the Raven with a coax cable
between the modem and the antenna allowing the antenna to be placed in a more suitable location
for proper cellular reception: outside of a metal cabinet, the trunk lid of a car, a window, etc. A
What is the Proper RF Coverage for my Raven?
What Type of Antenna is Best for my Raven?
Antennas selected should not exceed a maximum gain of 5 dBi under standard installation config-
uration. In more complex installations (such as those req
uiring long lengths of cable and/or multi-
ple connections), it’s imperative that the installer follow maximum dBi gain guidelines in
accordance with the FFC’s,
regulations.
For cellular communication, the Raven requires a dual band antenna supporting both 800 MHz
and 1900 MHz (1
.9 Ghz) bands.
Caution: Single band antennas, such as those formerly used with a CDPD device,
generally only support 800 MHz. Using a single band antenna can greatly reduce
your ability to activate or use your Raven with Cingular.