ProSoft Technology RLX2-IFH9E - Manual (Page 39)

RLX2-IFHxE ♦ Industrial Wireless Installing the Radios
Industrial Frequency Hopping Ethernet Radios User Manual
ProSoft Technology, Inc. Page 39 of 81
May 28, 2014
2 Installing the Radios
In This Chapter
 Radio Hardware .................................................................................... 39
 Cable Connections ................................................................................ 41
Important: If the radios are close enough to each other that their received signal strength is
greater than -40 dBm, performance may be degraded. Disconnect antennas from radios during
bench testing, or move the radios further apart from each other.
Tip: To make it easier to physically identify the radios you are configuring, apply a label to each
radio with the radio name.
After you have configured each radio using ControlScape FH, you can install the
radios and test their performance. Install the radios in their proposed permanent
locations, then temporarily place each radio’s antenna near its proposed
mounting location. The temporary placement of the antenna can be by hand;
however, with this testing method, one person must hold the antenna while
another monitors the radio’s signal strength.
To see how a radio is linked in the network, connect the radio to your PC, and
then choose your network in ControlScape FH.
The Diagnostic view shows a diagram of the ne twork’s wireless connections. Use
this view to see whether all the radios are linked. Refer to Improving Signal
Quality (page 41) for more information on overcoming poor connectivity.
2.1 Radio Hardware
2.1.1 Radio Power Requirements
The RLX2 radios accept voltages between 9 and 24 VDC, with an average power
draw of 6 watts or less. A detachable power connector comes with the radio, as
shown below. The connector terminals are labeled + (positive DC connection)
and - (DC ground connection).
You can use the AC-to-DC power supply adapter supplied with the optional RLX-
IHBTK Bench Test Kit. DC power wires must be less than 6.5 feet (2 meters) in
length to meet regulatory requirements.
Important: When wiring the power connector supplied with the radio, be sure to observe the
proper polarity markings on the power connector. Improper connector wiring can cause serious
damage to the radio which is not be covered under the ProSoft Warranty.