B&B Electronics Modem Wireless Proprietary RF, Antenna and Cable Selection, More is Not Better…

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Communication

Wireless Serial USB USB

Wireless Proprietary RF

R.F. Antenna and Cable Selection

When designing an antenna system there are several items to

level arrives at the receiver. This will allow some “link margin”

consider. Factors that affect the performance of the antennas

in situations where conditions change and the environment

are highlighted below. An RF communications system should

degrades the signal.

be designed such that more than the absolute minimum signal

 

 

 

Radio Output Power. RF power is rated in watts or milli-watts.

Antenna Type. If at all possible your system’santennasshould be

Typical B&B Electronics Zlinx products are rated in 1mw,

able to “see” each other.This is not alwayspossibleso it’scritical

10mw, 100mw, 500mw and 1watt, outputs. As RF power

to select the proper antennacomponents to keep signalloss or

increases so will the current demand on the power supplying

decrease receive sensitivity.If obstacles are present,you may

your system.

consider a higher gain antenna.

Radio Receive Sensitivity.Receive sensitivity is basically the ability

Cable Type. Selecting the incorrect cable could cause

to detect and decode a specific radio frequency.Typicallythis is

significant signal loss. A rule of thumb is for every 3db of loss,

measured in dBm - the lower the better.Typical Zlinx products

your system will lose one half the output power emitted from

are approximately -114dBm.

the radio. Visit our antenna selection tech paper a helpful

 

selection guide and more information:

Transmit/Receive Distance. Keep in mind that if you have lots of

www.bb-elec.com/techpapers.

transmit power but poor receive sensitivity,bidirectional

Obstacles. Obstacles are always a problem. General rule: Try

communicationmay be a problem. The type of cable and antenna

used will affect the receive sensitivityand RF output power.

to avoid them. When placing an antenna, keep in mind that

Cable Impedance. It’s important to select a cable that matches

trees grow, new buildings are constructed. Plan for future

obstructions.

the radio’s impedance. A mismatch will cause the radio link to

 

become inefficient or may cause damage to the radio.

 

 

 

More is Not Better…

Keeping the above in mind, one of the most important components in an antenna system is the transmission cable. The wrong type, wrong impedance, wrong length, etc., and your system could go south quick. When selecting RF coax type cable keep cable runs as short as possible. Long cable runs will cause additional signal loss.

Peer to Peer vs. Peer to Multi-Peer…

When selecting an antenna also keep in mind the type of system architecture. Simple systems, such as peer-to-peer, can be easily designed using Yagi antennas on both ends. A multi- peer system, such as a Modbus master to several slave devices, needs a little more thought. When designing a multi-peer system the master needs to communicate to all the respective slave devices. This is typically accomplished by designing an

omni-directional antenna on the master and Yagi antennas pointing at the master antenna.

Antenna Selection…

The same rule applies for the gain of an antenna: for every 3db of gain, you will double the effective radiated power out of the respective antenna. A gain of 8.1db using a 100wm radio is approximately 270mw of output power. (Keep in mind we have not included any cable or connector losses.)

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Cable Specifications

 

 

 

Cable Type

Loss at 900 MHz - per 100 feet

Loss at 2.4 GHz - per 100 feet

Diameter

LMR-195

11.5 dB

19.0 dB

0.195 in.

 

 

 

 

LMR-400

3.9 dB

6.8 dB

0.405 in.

Antenna Gain Rule-of-Thumb

 

 

 

 

 

Frequency and Wattage

300 feet

1000 feet

1 mile

5 miles

10 miles

900

MHz, 100 mW

2.1 dB

2.1 dB

>6 dB

>10 dB

n/a

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

900

MHz, 1 W

2.1 dB

2.1 dB

>3 dB

>6 dB

>10 dB

2.4

GHz, 50 mW

2.1 dB

>6 dB

>10 dB

n/a

n/a

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2.4

GHz, Zigbee

2.1 dB

>6 dB

>10 dB

n/a

n/a

Typical radiation patterns using Yagi and Dipole type antennas.

www.bb-elec.com

1.815.433.5100

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Contents We’ll help you pick the wireless option you can trust Stepping up to wireless?Features Easy to install and maintain, long rangesIndustrial Grade Radio Modems ZP24D Radio ModemsFeatures and Benefits Wireless Proprietary RF Radio ModemsApplications OverviewElectronics Customer Service Send digital and analog I/O signals wirelessly and securelyRepeater Mode Zlinx Modular Remote I/OWireless Ethernet Serial Servers Wireless Ethernet Serial ServersSecure Wireless Serial Device Server Wireless Serial Device ServersFeatures/Benefits all models Features/BenefitsIndustrial Ethernet Wireless AP Bridge/AP Client Access all your resources wirelessly with access pointsFeaturesBenefits Transmit Ethernet and serial data with cellular technology Wireless Cellular Gateway/Router/VPNAntenna and Cable Selection Wireless Proprietary RFMore is Not Better… Peer to Peer vs. Peer to Multi-Peer…Lighting Arrestors Mocap Silicone Installation Tape Wireless AccessoriesAntenna and cabling options For longer range & special Applications

Modem specifications

B&B Electronics is renowned for its innovative communication solutions, and their line of modems reflects this commitment to quality and performance. These modems are designed to provide reliable data transmission across various applications, catering to the needs of industries such as manufacturing, transportation, and utilities.

One of the standout features of B&B Electronics modems is their versatility. They support multiple communication protocols, including RS-232, RS-422, and RS-485, making them suitable for a wide range of systems. This adaptability allows users to integrate the modems into existing infrastructures with ease, facilitating seamless communication between devices.

Another significant characteristic is the robust build quality of B&B Electronics modems. Designed to withstand harsh environments, these devices are often housed in rugged enclosures that protect against dust, moisture, and extreme temperatures. This durability ensures that the modems can operate reliably in industrial settings where conditions may be less than ideal.

In addition to their physical resilience, B&B Electronics modems also incorporate advanced technologies to enhance performance. Many models feature data rate capabilities of up to 115.2 Kbps, ensuring fast and efficient data transfer. This high speed is crucial for applications that require real-time communication, such as monitoring and control systems.

The modems also include error correction and data compression capabilities, which significantly improve the integrity and efficiency of data transmission. This is particularly beneficial in environments with potential interference or where signal quality may fluctuate.

Ease of use is another hallmark of B&B Electronics modems. They often come with user-friendly interfaces, making configuration straightforward. Many models feature LED indicators for power and data activity, allowing users to quickly diagnose any issues that may arise.

With a focus on customer support, B&B Electronics provides comprehensive documentation and assistance, ensuring that users can maximize the benefits of their modems. Coupled with their proven track record in the industry, B&B Electronics continues to be a trusted choice for businesses seeking reliable modem solutions that meet diverse communication needs.

In conclusion, B&B Electronics modems are characterized by their robust design, versatile protocol support, high-speed data transmission, and user-friendly features. They stand out as a dependable option for industries requiring efficient and durable communication solutions.
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