User's Manual

UtiliNet® Endpoint User Guide 11-1-2006
Page 20 of 30
© Cellnet 2005
algorithms.
• In addition to the geographical information, USGS maps provide topological information that is helpful
when planning and maintaining a UtiliNet network. If the network is installed in an area with high ridges
and low valleys, USGS maps can be used to determine potential trouble areas as well as ideal repeater
sites.
• Maps also provide an excellent graphical representation of the network. If a radio is programmed with the
incorrect lat/long it can easily be identified in a graphical way.
For mail order USGS maps contact:
Map Link, Inc.
30 S. La Patera Lane, Unit #5
Santa Barbara, California 93117
Phone: [phone]
Toll-free phone: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
Toll-free fax: [phone]
U.S.G.S. Topo Dept. Fax: [phone]
Web: http://www.maplink.com
E-Mail: [e-mail]
MapInfo
MapInfo® is a desktop software application that allows the user to graphically view city, county and state
maps on a computer screen. Latitude and longitude coordinates can be derived by simply positioning a
mouse cursor over the intended installation location. The approximate cost for the MapInfo application and
associated map data is $2000. When considering the use of a MapInfo for constructing and maintaining a
UtiliNet network, here are some issues to evaluate:
• MapInfo has software hooks which allow it to connect to a database server. System integrators can use
this feature to store specific installation information about many different networks. In addition to the
lat/long information, the user can store other information such as a description of the site, the installation
date, or the type of installation.
• MapInfo software can run on a laptop computer for field applications. When installing a UtiliNet radio, it
may be easier, depending on the deployment technique, for field personnel to program radios while on site.
With MapInfo, users can derive actual lat/long coordinates and program the radio while in the field.
Although the map data is usually provided from MapInfo on a CD ROM, it can be transferred to a hard
disk.
• Additional computer hardware will be required to run the MapInfo application.
For additional information, contact MapInfo
MapInfo Corporation
One Global View
Troy, New York 12180
Tel: [phone] or 800.FASTMAP
Fax: [phone]
Web: http://www.mapinfo.com
Email: [e-mail]
RF Considerations and System Design
Many books have been written on the subject of RF Considerations and System Design, but this section
covers the important fundamentals.