User's Manual

Spread Spectrum Wireless Data Transceiver User Manual
LUM0002AF Rev E Version 6.3 11
Choosing a Location for the Transceivers
Placement of the FreeWave transceiver is likely to have a significant impact on its performance. The key
to the overall robustness of the radio link is the height of the antenna. In general, FreeWave units with a
higher antenna placement will have a better communication link. In practice, the transceiver should be
placed away from computers, telephones, answering machines and other similar equipment. The 6-foot
RS232 cable included with the transceiver usually provides ample distance for placement away from
other equipment. To improve the data link, FreeWave Technologies offers directional and Omni
directional antennas with cable lengths ranging from 3 to 200 feet. When using an external antenna,
placement of that antenna is critical to a solid data link. Other antennas in close proximity are a potential
source of interference; use the Point-to-Point diagnostics utility to align and tune antennas. Please
reference the LAN5455AA Rev D Using Local Diagnostics from a Multipoint Slave.pdf file (found on the
User Manual and System Tools CD) for proper usage of the utility. An adjustment as little as 2 feet in
antenna placement can resolve some noise problems. In extreme cases, such as when interference is
due to a Pager or Cellular Telephone tower, the band pass filters that FreeWave offers, may reduce this
out-of-band noise.
FreeWave also offers a waterproof version of the several of our more popular transceivers. These
models may be placed outdoors without additional weather protection. The waterproof enclosure requires
an external antenna and includes a 6-foot data and power pigtail cable.