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PinPoint EDGE/GPRS - User Guide, version 2.32 143
Frequently Asked Questions and Technical Support
Power, Antennas, and Signal Strength
RSSI (Received Signal Strength Indication) is a measurement of the strength or intensity, not nec-
essarily the quality, of the received signal.
The RSSI is measured in dBm which is the power ratio in decibel (dB) of the measured power ref-
erenced to one milliwatt (mW). One milliwatt is zero, therefore less than a milliwatt, common and
ideal for cellular communication, is expressed as a negative interger.
The optimal range for AirLink modems is an RF Coverage (RSSI value) of -60 to -95. RF coverage
between -95 to -105 DBm will often still register, however functionality at this range can be greatly
reduced and registration can become difficult. Any devices with an RSSI below -105 DBm will
likely fail to register on a regular basis.
When addressing RF coverage ensure the antenna choice is appropriate for the device and frequen-
cies required.
Antennas for cellular communication are commonly omni-directional and either dual-band or
multi-band. They come in a variety of shapes and mounting confirgurations to suit several differ
-
ent types of needs.
While AirLink does sell a limited selection of antennas and antenna accessories, these are by no
means all that are available or usable with your PinPoint. There are several suppliers of cellular
accessories with a much wider selection of antennas designed to cater to a broader variety of situa
-
tions.
Dual-band
What is RSSI? Why is the RSSI for my PinPoint negative?
What is the Proper RF Coverage for my PinPoint?
What Type of Antenna is Best for my PinPoint?
Antennas selected should not exceed a maximum gain of 5 dBi under standard installation config-
uration. In more complex installations (such as those requiring long lengths of cable and/or multi-
ple connections), it’s imperative that the installer follow maximum dBi gain guidelines in
accordance with the FFC’s, Industry Canada’s, or your country’s radio communications regula
-
tory body’s regulations.
For cellular communication, the PinPoint requires a dual band antenna supporting both 800 MHz
and 1900 MHz (1.9 Ghz) bands.