Preparation; Path Planning; Antenna Selection And Siting - 4RF Aprisa XE User Manual

3.

Preparation

Path planning

Proper path planning is essential. When considering the components of your radio system, think
about:

antenna selection and siting

coaxial cable selection
link budget
You can also use Surveyor to help you with path feasibility planning.
Surveyor is a path propagation calculator developed by 4RF to assist path planners quickly and
efficiently verify the viability of point-to-point transmission links deploying the Aprisa™ microwave radio
systems.
The software program calculates the anticipated link performance for the transmission system
elements you have selected. However, it is not a substitute for in-depth path planning.
You will find Surveyor a valuable addition to your planning toolbox.
A copy of Surveyor is provided on the Aprisa CD supplied with this manual. You can download
updates from www.4rf.com.
Antenna selection and siting
Selecting and siting antennas are important considerations in your system design.
There are three main types of directional antenna that are commonly used with the radios parabolic
grid, Yagi and corner reflector antennas.
The antenna that should be used for a particular situation is determined primarily by the frequency of
operation and the gain required to establish a reliable link.
Parabolic grid antennas
Factor
Frequency
Gain
Wind loading
Tower aperture required
Size
Front to back ratio
Cost
Explanation
Often used in 1350-2700 MHz bands
Varies with size (17 dBi to 30 dBi
typical)
Can be significant
Can be significant
Range from 0.6 m to 3 m diameter
Good
High
Preparation | 19