Stage 1: Preliminary Survey Chapter 2
WinLink™ 1000 User Manual Release 1.9 2-2
•Compass
Stage 2: Physical Survey
• 100 meter tape measure
• Ohmmeter, to check ground connection
•Binoculars
•Map
• Digital camera
• Paper, pencil, and a clipboard
• GPS device (optional)
• Compass (optional)
Stage 3: RF Survey
• Spectrum Analyzer with Max Hold function and screen capture facil-
ity that can store multiple images, for documentation purposes
• RF accessories (connectors and cables)
• Communication devices (for example, cellular phones, or a set of
walkie-talkies)
Stage 1: Preliminary Survey
A preliminary survey is necessary before visiting potential installation sites.
As much detail as possible should be obtained about the two designated
ODU installation sites and the area between them.
¾ To perform a preliminary survey:
1. Mark the two designated installation sites on a topographic map of the
area.
2. Measure the distance between the sites; check that it is within the speci-
fied range of the equipment.
3. On the urban map, check for developed areas situated between the two
installation sites. Pay attention to these areas when performing the phys-
ical site survey; there may be tall buildings, RF towers, or transmitters,
which could cause interference to the link.
4. Check the area between the two sites for obstructions such as:
• High ground - hills or mountains
• Lakes or large bodies of water. Water has a reflection effect on RF
signals like a building. This type of reflection causes the received
amplitude to be reduced. As a rule of thumb, the presence of a large
body of water between the link sites may double the required
antenna height.
5. Determine and record the compass bearings between both ODUs, rela-
tive to north.
6. If there are obstructions between the two sites, calculate the Fresnel
Zone (see Appendix B for details).
7. If the site chosen does not meet requirements, consider alternative sites.