User's Manual

2
Planning Your System
After determining which sensors you want and where you want to install them, make
sure you have the correct number of Nodes to support those sensors.
The maximum distance between two Nodes and a Gateway and a Node will vary
depending on many factors including environment, height, terrain, and RF noise.
To get optimal transmission range:
• Ideally, locate the devices with unobstructed lines of sight between them. A large
hill or large metal barrier will block signals. If transmitting under a canopy or in
an orchard, range will be reduced.
• Mount the devices as high above the ground or the highest crop height as
possible. The higher they are mounted, the longer the transmission distance.
• Try to mount the Gateway on a rooftop or pole so that it has a good “view” of the
area where the Nodes will be mounted.
Note: This illustration shows how installation height affects general transmission distances
under ideal conditions. Many variables affect transmission distance. Results will vary
based on environmental conditions.For longer transmission distance, add a Long
Range Antenna to the Gateway and/or Nodes. See page 22:
Appendix A: Adding a
Long Range Antenna.
10 feet
3 m
2400 - 4000 ft
730- 1220 m
™
8 feet
2.4 m
6 feet
1.8 m
1800 - 2400 ft
545 - 730 m
™
6 feet
1.8 m
1700 - 2000 ft
515 - 610 m
300 - 500 ft
90 -150 m
Orchard, under canopy
Line of sight, above highest
crop height or open eld
Line of sight, above highest
crop height or open eld
Line of sight, above highest
crop height or open eld
4 feet
1.2 m