User's Manual

FP300RA User Manual
2140-72018-00-0A REV: A Page 7 Of 38
1.2.2 Main Technical Characteristics
The FP-300RA is a complete user-configurable RF and data processing unit that supports two-
way communications with in-vehicle transponders (“tags”) using the ASTM V6 Slotted-Aloha
Time Division Multiple Access (TDMA) protocol. The physical layer is compatible with
ASTM PS111-98.
The FP-300RA communicates with transponders that enter its communication zone at speeds
of up to 125 mph (200 kph). The communication uses the 902 to 928 MHz ISM band, with
software-configurable synthesized transmit frequency; the data rate is 500 kbps, with ASK
modulation. A fixed receiver frequency within the ISM band is used (915 MHz default).
The FP-300RA can use many types of antennas, to match the spatial resolution needed in the
desired operation mode (single lane or multilane). It has an integrated antenna-switching unit
for multilane sites, supporting up to 4 lanes. The FP-300RA antenna switching rate is
configurable; when switching to a lane, the FP-300RA also automatically switches to the RF
parameters selected for that lane during the site calibration process.
The high transmit power (software-controllable up to 31.2 dBm) and the high selectivity, high-
sensitivity receiver with software-controllable squelch level ensure reliable communication and
high performance with minimal external support.
1.2.3 Maintenance Utility
Telematics Wireless offers a dedicated reader maintenance utility for the FP-300RA, that can
be installed on any PC running Microsoft® Corp. Windows 2000, Xp. The FP-300RA
connects to one of the free serial communication ports of the PC using a null modem cable.
The maintenance utility provides full control over FP-300RA RF and data processing
parameters, enables monitoring its operation and updating the FP-300RA software.
1.2.4 Additional Equipment Needed
The only additional accessories that have to be provided are:
Antennas for the specific installation requirements, with the required coaxial cables
for connection to the reader.
The number of antennas required and their radiation pattern depend on the
application mode:
• Single-lane mode: single transmit/receive antenna.
• Multilane mode: one antenna per active lane, with the option to add one
separate transmit antenna.
DC source capable of providing the required supply voltage (8 to 30 VDC) at
maximum 5 W.
Means for communicating with the host (serial asynchronous communication link).