Location Guidelines; Site Surveys; Safety; Mounting Strategies - ABB Tropos 1410 Installation Manual

Location Guidelines

Tropos 1410 devices are radio devices and therefore susceptible to interference that can reduce
throughput and range. Install the unit in an area where trees, buildings, and large steel structures
do not obstruct radio signals to and from the antenna. Direct line-of-sight operation is best.

Site Surveys

Due to variations in component configuration, placement, and physical environment, each
installation is unique. Before installing the Tropos 1410, perform a site survey to determine the
optimum placement of units for maximum range, coverage, and network performance. Consider
the following factors when performing a site survey:
Data rates—Sensitivity and range are inversely proportional to data bit rates. The maximum
radio range is achieved at the lowest workable data rate. A decrease in receiver threshold
sensitivity occurs as radio data rate increases.
Antenna orientation—Proper antenna orientation is a critical factor in maximizing radio
range. As a general rule, range increases in proportion to gain and antenna height measured
from the ground.
Physical environment—Clear or open areas provide better radio range than closed or filled
areas. The less cluttered the operating environment, the greater the range.
Obstructions—A physical obstruction, such as a building or tree, can block or hinder
communication. Avoid locating antennas in a location where there is an obstruction between
sending and receiving devices.
Building materials—Radio penetration is influenced by the building material used in
construction. For example, drywall construction permits greater range than concrete blocks.

Safety

Installing the Tropos 1410 can pose a serious hazard. Be sure to take precautions to avoid the
following:
Exposure to high voltage lines during installation
Falls when working at heights or with ladders
Injuries from dropping tools and equipment
Contact with AC wiring

Mounting Strategies

When choosing mounting locations, consider the available mounting structures and antenna
clearance. The unit should always be mounted with the top horizontal and level and with the
antennas facing upward.
It is usually best to attach ground and data cables to the unit prior to mounting. Before mounting
the unit, review the wiring instructions in
determine the best strategy for the selected location.
Tropos 1410 Installation Guide
"Connecting Power and Data Cables"
Chapter 2
on page 28 to
17