RAD-...-IFS
132 / 198
PHOENIX CONTACT 105542_en_05
8.5 Planning wireless paths
Wireless planning enables you to determine whether the wireless system is suitable for the
intended application. The three essential requirements for wireless systems are:
–Range
–Data rate
– Stability
These three factors influence one another.
When planning wireless paths over large distances, you need to consider elevation varia-
tions. A topographic map or a GPS device are very helpful in this regard. Using GPS de-
vices, you can indicate variations in elevation and measure distances by means of way-
points. You can use the GPS device as a direction indicator when aligning the antennas later
on.
Theoretical planning
The following questions should be considered during theoretical planning:
– What signals are to be transmitted?
– What points are the signals to be transmitted between?
–What is the distance between these points?
– Are there any topographic or structural obstacles?
– Are you able to circumvent these obstacles, e.g., by means of a repeater or higher
mast?
When evaluating the data, a system calculation can be carried out to determine whether the
wireless path is theoretically possible. A calculation example can be found from page 148
onwards.
8.6 Practical test
To check the theoretical results, you should carry out an on-site practical test before pur-
chasing a wireless system. Check the location for master, slave, and repeater/slave mod-
ules based on the following criteria in order to achieve the best possible wireless connec-
tion:
– Position of the antenna with a line of sight and adequate signal strength
– A primary power source for energy supply is available
– Protection of wireless modules against the effects of weather and extreme ambient
conditions
– Adequate access to the antenna, surge protection, interface, and other required cables
These requirements can be quickly assessed in most applications. Positioning the antenna
is usually the only difficult task. Of course, a connection path without any obstacles would
be perfect. However, small obstacles in the Fresnel zone will not necessarily disturb com-
munication. In general, obstacles in the way on long wireless paths have a greater influence
than those on short ones.
To Next Page
Loading...
Need help?
General
