User's Manual

UtiliNet® Endpoint User Guide 1-5-2007
Page 9 of 30
© Cellnet 2005
Radios With Programmable Intelligence
Each radio is similar to a programmable logic controller (PLC). The radio acts much like a small computer,
carrying out any number of computing and command functions. The intelligence in each radio enables it to
perform many functions not normally associated with radios such as making intelligent routing decisions,
transporting industry protocols, and recognizing operating conditions and responding with pre-programmed
logic.
Packets Hop From Radio To Radio
When an end device generates a message that needs to traverse the network, the end-device radio packets
the data, places the data into an envelope—addressed to the destination radio—and enters it into the
network. The data packet traverses the network by hopping from radio to radio in the direction of the
destination radio. The number of hops between origin and destination radio(s) is automatically minimized
to increase transmission speed. The route chosen for traversing the network is dynamic and employs
automatic re-routing in the event a particular data path is not clear.
Polling and Report By Exception
Traditional point-to-multipoint systems are prone to network latency as only one radio can communicate
with the master at a time. A mesh network eliminates this problem as data is evenly spread across the entire
mesh (i.e., a multipoint-tomultipoint network). Further, most traditional network topologies poll, gathering
data sequentially. UtiliNet radios can be programmed to respond under predetermined parameters or on an
unsolicited, report-by-exception basis—which is both faster and more efficient.
About This Manual
This technical reference guide explains UtiliNet in great detail from application design through
implementation and operation to after-sales services and support. Also included are a glossary of important
terms and papers on extended UtiliNet topics.
Chapter Title Description
1 Introduction Provides introductory information about the Utilinet
network and this manual.
2 UtiliNet Endpoint Under-
Glass Radio
Describes the details of the UtiliNet endpoint module
3 UtiliNet Endpoint
Configuration
Provides information for radio configuration, radio
installation, network routing, mobile radio configuration.
4 Network Engineering Contains information on network design, latitude/
longitude calculations, system design, and field studies.
Glossary Provides a list of terms and definitions commonly
used in UtiliNet radio applications.
Icons
Throughout the document, various icons are used to draw your attention to important information. Below
are examples:
The warning icon identifies information that is critical to maintaining
the integrity of the software or data.