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EM50R RADIO TELEMETRY
Radio logger networks with different values set for the Radio Channel use different
frequency-hopping sequences, and therefore experience minimal interference between
groups. Radio logger networks with the same Radio Channel value but different Radio
subchannel values can interfere with each other, but cannot communicate with each other.
This interference can also cause additional battery drain in the radio logger.
The default values for Radio Channel and Subchannel are zero. Use ECH20 Utility to choose
other values.
6.4 RADIO PERFORMANCE
The maximum range of the radio modules in the radio logger and DataStation are affected
by the environment, installation method, and antenna choice. Maximizing the range of your
radio network requires you to consider these factors.
Buildings, hills, vegetation, vehicles, and other environmental obstructions sometimes
shorten the radio range, sometimes drastically. You should ensure a clear, open path
between radio devices. Also, radio frequency, or RF, interference in the environment around
the radio can reduce the usable range (even if not using the same radio frequencies). You
should consider nearby growing vegetation when designing and testing your radio network.
Some radio networks work fine when the vegetation is sparse, yet may fail when vegetation
is full.
You can increase the effective transmit range by maximizing the above ground height of the
radio antenna. This helps ensure a clear path for the radio signals and reduces the amount of
signal absorbed by the earth. Use an antenna extension cable to help position your antenna
when it is not practical to install the logger higher off the ground. If you mount the radio
logger to a metal pole, you should mount the antenna to the top of the metal pole so it is free
to radiate the signal above the pole.
Replacing the stock antenna on your radio device with a high gain antenna can greatly
increase the radio range. Consider using a directional Yagi antenna or a high-gain omni-
directional antenna when you want to extend the range of your radio network. A high-gain
antenna can also help overcome the effects of unavoidable environmental obstructions.
The ECH2O telemetry system also supports a simple relay for use with Transmit Mode
networks. Combining a relay and high-gain antennas allows radio devices to communicate
over very long distances. Contact METER for more information on using a relay in your
radionetwork.
6.5 CONNECTING VIA RM1 RADIO MODEM
Connecting to an Em50R via a Rm-1 is different than connecting via your USB cable. Keep
notes concerning the Em50R name and radio settings to make the rest of the system
configuration easier to accomplish.
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