Omega WI8XX-U manual 1 Operation in Buildings

7.Where possible, try to ensure an uninterrupted line-of-sight between nodes. Avoid obscuring objects (e.g. metal pillars, posts, sign) near the antenna. A close object obscures a wider range of solid angle.

8.It is important to understand that the environment may change over time due to new equipment or machinery being installed, building construction, etc. If new obstacles exist between the End Device and Meter, antenna angle may need to be re-adjusted and/or the unit has to be relocated.

9.An IEEE 802.15.4 wireless network will not work under water. Wet condition (e.g. in heavy rainfall) may exhibit some degradation. In most cases, water droplets on or close to the antenna are more serious than the rain itself. Humidity can affect radio performance as well.

10.Reduced performance scenario:

a.A large building may have few obstructions between nodes but large amount of metallic paneling that cause reflections.

b.A small domestic installation may have numerous brick walls between nodes in individual rooms.

c.An office building may have metalized dry-wall partitions together with mezzanine ceilings.

End Devices		STORAGE ROOM
-NB9	UWIR
			UWTC
MANUFACTURING
		MANUFACTURING
AREA	Meter/
UWRTD		AREA
	Receiver
UWTC	CONTROL ROOM	OFFICE	OFFICE
Figure 5.1 Operation in Buildings

Data is sent through radio signal at 2.4 GHz. Radio signals are
electromagnetic waves, hence the signal becomes weaker the further it
travels.
While radio waves can penetrate some solid materials like a wall, they
can diminish more than when a direct line-of-sight between the
transmitting and receiving antenna exist.
Therefore, it is generally a good idea to place Meter at the center while
End Devices are located about the same distance away from it. If
possible, keeping clearance around the line of site will improve
performance as well.	68