Clear-Com DX Base Antenna - Manual

HM ELECTRONICS, INC. 14110 Stowe Drive, Poway, CA 92064 USA
• Phone: 1-800-848-4468 Fax: (858) 552-0172
HME# 400529
Rev C 2/24/05
ANT20-30
Coverage Extension Kit
INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS
The Coverage Extension Kit allows one antenna of an HME 2.4GHz wireless intercom to be
mounted up to 30 feet (9.14 meters) from the base station for improved signal coverage. The
antenna can be mounted inside a window or outside for extended coverage. To install the kit,
follow the instructions below.
There are key elements that should be considered when installing a Wireless IQ base station
(BASE 6000) in a QSR environment. Taking care during the installation of the base can mean the
difference between a satisfied customer and a Technical Support or onsite service call.
Using the Coverage Extension Kit to increase coverage:
If speed team coverage at location #6 is required, then location #5 should be selected for base
mounting. This reduces the number of wall penetrations and allows the coverage extension cable
to run outside the store for best outside coverage. Stores with a large window area near the base
will have better outside coverage if the base is facing the windows. If there are large windows along
the wall next to location #6 outside coverage will be enhanced.
The Wireless IQ base uses two antennas. Both antennas transmit and receive signals. The reason
for using two antennas is to avoid multi-path dropouts. The antenna coverage area can be
improved by mounting one antenna away from the base. The base will select the antenna that
gives the best signal to a particular COMMUNICATOR ® location.
If outside coverage is required, mount the base as close as possible to the wall that faces the
desired coverage area. In this case, mounting the base at location #5 to cover location #6 will
minimize wall penetrations. Also consider in-store coverage when doing this. If the base is located
in the best location for inside and outside coverage, but the coverage outside is still spotty then the
antenna extension cable needs to be run outside the store. In this case, hanging the antenna
under an eve next to the desired area will cover that side of the store very well. Another approach
is to go up through the roof and have the antenna overlook the desired side area. This approach
overcomes obstacles, like walls, that may shadow the signal when the antenna is at a lower height.
Discuss the location of the base station with the store owner or manager. It should be mounted less
than 10 feet (3 meters) from an available electrical outlet, and away from grease and large metal
objects. Also, the base transmitter antenna(s) must be installed where they will be at least 7.87
inches (20 cm) from all persons, and will not be near any other antenna or transmitter. The
antenna extension kit should be used to extend the coverage area as needed.
Things to consider before and during base station installation
● Sheets of stainless steel on the walls may shield or reflect radio signals.
● The base station should be located where, if you stand with your back to the wall, you can
see most of the work area where the Communicators will be used.
● The number of walls between the base station and where the Communicators will be used
should be minimized.
● The customer may need outside coverage for Speed Team operation.
● Large windows will allow the signal to pass through and can improve outside coverage.
● If a system is being replaced, it may not be desirable to use the same mounting location for
the base station as used before, but the customer may require it in some cases.