Microwave Data Systems MDS entraNET 900 System Manual page 106

98 MDS entraNET 900 System Guide (Preliminary)
levels stronger than –77 dBm will provide the basis for reliable commu-
nication that includes a 15 dB fade margin. As the distance between the
Access Point and Remotes increases, the influence of terrain, foliage
and man-made obstructions become more influential and the use of
directional antennas at Remote locations becomes necessary. Direc-
tional antennas usually require some fine-tuning of their bearing to opti-
mize the received signal strength. The transceiver has a built-in received
signal strength indicator (RSSI) that can be used to tell you when the
antenna is in a position that provides the optimum received signal.
RSSI measurements and Wireless Packet Statistics are based on mul-
tiple samples over a period of several seconds. The average of these
measurements will be displayed by the entraNET Management System.
The measurement and antenna alignment process will usually take 10 or
more minutes at each transceiver.
The path to the Management System menu item is shown in bold text
below each step of the procedure.
Procedure
1. Verify the Remote is associated with an Access Point unit. Observe
the condition of the
LINK LED = On or Blinking
This will indicate that you have an adequate signal level for the
measurements and it is safe to proceed.
2. View and record the Wireless Packets Dropped and Received Error
rates.
(Main Menu>Performance Information>Packet Statistics>Wireless Packet
Statistics)
This information will be used later.
3. Clear the Wireless Packets Statistics history.
(Main Menu>Performance Information>Packet Statistics>Wireless Packet
Statistics>Clear Wireless Stats)
4. Read the RSSI level at the Remote.
(Main Menu>Performance Information>RSSI by Zone)
5. Optimize RSSI (less negative is better) by slowly adjusting the
direction of the antenna.
Watch the RSSI indication for several seconds after making each
adjustment so that the RSSI accurately reflects any change in the
link signal strength.
LED.
LINK
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MDS 05-4055A01, Rev. A