The final design feature in System Configuration #3 uses a Niles Radio Frequency Gateway (RFG) to extend the antenna away from the HT-MSU. The Niles iC2 HT-MSU comes with an RF antenna that can be connected directly to the HT-MSU antenna socket. Reception range is approximately 75 feet (22.86 meters). We recommend using the 10 foot antenna extension cable to position the RF antenna away from the home theater sources. Use the extension cable and the antenna bracket to get the antenna up and away from all of the products that can cause interference with RF reception. Keep in mind that the reception range may not be enough if all of the home theater gear is located in another room further away than 75 feet (22.86 meters). A Niles RFG is an optional device that can be used to move the RF radio antenna up to 330 feet (100 meters) away from the HT-MSU. The RFG is connected to the HT-MSU via CAT-5 cable. (Please refer to the Installation Section for the importance of terminating CAT-5 cable with the T568A standard). Niles QuickConfig Software will ask if a Niles RFG is being used to aid in set-up.
INSTALLATION CONSIDERATIONS
PLACEMENT OF THE HT-MSU
Niles recommends placing the HT-MSU conveniently close to the equipment it is controlling. Generally, the unit should be placed in a concealed location because its indicator and connections are only used during installation. Placement possibilities include:
1)Wall-mount (affixed to the back of the equipment cabinet or a nearby wall) (Figure 8)
2)Rack-mount (attached to the back of a professional 19-inch standard equipment rack that uses traditional 1, 2 or 3 “u” hole spacing (e.g. Middle Atlantic)
3)Table-top (on the floor or shelf behind the equipment)
ANTENNA CONSIDERATIONS
Communication between the iC2 Remote and the HT-MSU is an RF-based with a frequency of 2.4 GHz. Effective range of the iC2 Remote to HT-MSU communication is 75 feet (22.86 meters) open air. The RF antenna can be attached directly to the HT-MSU with the provision that the antenna is vertical for best reception.
Figure 8. Wall-mount placement | Figure 9. Vertical alignment of |
Use sheetrock screws | antenna is necessary |
14 | for optimal reception |
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