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PinPoint-E EDGE/GPRS - User Guide, version 2.32 143
Frequently Asked Questions and Technical Support
Power, Antennas, and Signal Strength
RSSI (Received Signal Strength Indication) is a measurement of the strength or intensity, not nec-
essarily the quality, of the received signal.
The RSSI is measured in dBm which is the power ratio in decibel (dB) of the measured power ref-
erenced to one milliwatt (mW). One milliwatt is zero, therefore less than a milliwatt, common and
ideal for cellular communication, is expressed as a negative interger.
The optimal range for AirLink modems is an RF Coverage (RSSI value) of -60 to -95. RF coverage
between -95 to -105 DBm will often still register, however functionality at this range can be greatly
reduced and registration can become difficult. Any devices with an RSSI below -105 DBm will
likely fail to register on a regular basis.
When addressing RF coverage ensure the antenna choice is appropriate for the device and frequen-
cies required.
Antennas for cellular communication are commonly omni-directional and either dual-band or
multi-band. They come in a variety of shapes and mounting confirgurations to suit several differ
-
ent types of needs.
While AirLink does sell a limited selection of antennas and antenna accessories, these are by no
means all that are available or usable with your PinPoint-E. There are several suppliers of cellular
accessories with a much wider selection of antennas designed to cater to a broader variety of situa
-
tions.
Dual-band
What is RSSI? Why is the RSSI for my PinPoint-E negative?
What is the Proper RF Coverage for my PinPoint-E?
What Type of Antenna is Best for my PinPoint-E?
Antennas selected should not exceed a maximum gain of 5 dBi under standard installation config-
uration. In more complex installations (such as those requiring long lengths of cable and/or multi-
ple connections), it’s imperative that the installer follow maximum dBi gain guidelines in
accordance with the FFC’s, Industry Canada’s, or your country’s radio communications regula
-
tory body’s regulations.
For cellular communication, the PinPoint-E requires a dual band antenna supporting both 800
MHz and 1900 MHz (1.9 Ghz) bands.