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Metal surfaces
Metal partitions
Factors reducing range
Solution
Siemens
Building Technologies
11.5.2 RF signal shielding
Metal surfaces reflect electromagnetic waves, e.g. metal partitions and metal
ceilings, massive steel reinforcement in the concrete walls and metal foils from
insulation. Creating RF shading in a "silent zone". Individual, thin metal strips have
little impact, for example, strips in a gypsum drywall.
Mounting a transmitter directly on a metal surface (e.g. panel doors, steel door
frames) prevent the free transmission of the RF signal. This may impact RF
connection or even cause a loss of connection. Functions are only possible as an
exception for a device mounted in this manner and cannot be guaranteed
accordingly.
RF technology does work with metal room partitions. The signals are reflects: Metal
and concrete walls reflect RF waves. RF waves penetrate to neighboring hallways
or rooms through opening, e.g. a wood door or glass partition. The range can be
significantly reduced based on the specific local conditions. An additional repeater
in the right place is an easy way to provide and alternative RF path.
An EnOcean RF signal can be amplified at most two times by a repeater.
• Metal partitions or hallow walls with insulation on metal foil.
• Suspending ceilings with panels made of metal or carbon fibers.
• Steel furniture or glass with metal coating.
• Mounting the switch on a metal wall (typically results in a loss of 30% in range).
• User of metal switch frames (typically results in a loss of 30% in range).
Fire protection walls, elevator shafts, stairwells and supply areas should be
considered shielding.
You can eliminate shielding by repositioning the transmitter and/or receiver
antenna from the silent zone or using a repeater.
Mounting and installation
EnOcean RF networks
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CM111043en_03
2013-02-23
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