Introduction – Campbell Scientific RF401-series and RF430-series Spread Spectrum Data Radios/Modems User Manual

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RF401-series and RF430-series Spread

Spectrum Radio/Modems

1. Introduction

This manual discusses the RF401-series and RF430-series spread spectrum

radios. Spread spectrum radios spread the normally narrowband information

signal over a relatively wide band of frequencies. This allows the

communications to be more immune to noise and interference from RF sources

such as pagers, cellular phones and multipath. The RF401-series and RF430-

series radios reduce susceptibility to RF interference from other spread

spectrum devices by providing user-selectable frequency hopping patterns.

You do not need a communications authority license for the

RF401-series or RF430-series configurations described in this

manual including U.S. Government Agencies regulated by NTIA

Annex K. Spread spectrum radios, like all FCC Part 15 devices,

are not allowed to cause harmful interference to licensed radio

communications and must accept any interference that they

receive. Most Campbell Scientific users operate in open or remote

locations where interference is unlikely. If there is a problem,

interference can be reduced using methods such as moving the

device, reorienting or using a different type of antenna, or adding

RF shielding.

The RF401-series and RF430-series radios can provide up to one mile

transmission range when using an inexpensive whip antenna. The radios can

provide up to 10 mile transmission range when using a higher gain directional

antenna at ideal conditions. Compatible antennas are described in Section 4.4.

Line-of-sight obstructions and RF interference will affect the

transmission distance. See Appendix H, Distance vs. Antenna

Gain, Terrain, and Other Factors, for a discussion of antenna gain

and other factors affecting distance.

You may test the radio communications onsite by using the 21107 900 MHz

Spread Spectrum Demo Kit; contact Campbell Scientific for more information.

Campbell Scientific does not recommend using RF401-

series and RF430-series radios in networks containing

RF450 radios. The RF450 radios will interfere with the

transmission of the RF401-series and RF430-series radios.

No product using the 24XStream radio, including the RF416

and RF432, will be available for sale in Europe after

1/1/2015 due to changes in EU legislation. Consequently,

purchase of the RF416 or RF432 is not recommended for

use in Europe in new networks that may require future

expansion.

NOTE

CAUTION