Black Box V5.1 Installation procedures, System set-upoverview, Key factors of operation

Black Box Networks PICO systems

Pico Manual v5.1

3 Installation procedures

3.1 System set-up overview

The set up of a Black Box link needs careful planning, thorough site preparation, and accurate installation. We have listed the work that is essential for a successful system set up.

1.Site survey

2.System design

3.Site preparation

4.System installation

5.Alignment procedure

6.System test

We deem necessary to emphasize the importance of site survey. It is fundamental to make sure if the laser link is a viable solution at all. Most customers usually are not experts in this field, so they cannot realize the sources of possible difficulties. It is also very important to clarify the position, size and outlook of the support frame with the customer in advance.

3.2 Key factors of operation

There are four key issues that the site survey. The proper system operation cannot be guaranteed without satisfying all the four requirements.

a. Clear line of sight - first of all optical path between the two ends must be free of any obstacles. It not only means that one has to see the other side, but other possible sources of disturbance should also be taken into consideration. For example there might be turbulence above the roofs and other constructions, and this can cause fraction or scattering of the beam or snow accumulation on roofs too close to the beam can influence or even interrupt the communication.

b. Solid mount surface - is the key for long-term operation. Since the diameter of the beam is limited, it is extremely important to mount the unit on a stable structure with the possible smallest movement. This way the receiver of the remote unit cannot get out of the beam due to the movement of the opposite head.

d. East-West orientation - although the receiver optics is equipped with optical filters to protect the receiver diode from the effect of undesired light sources, the direct sunshine can cause saturation of the diode. This prevents the system from working properly for several minutes a day in a certain time of the year. There are some methods to reduce the effect of the sun, but the best way is to avoid the East- West orientation wherever it is possible.

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