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Black Box Networks PICO systems
Pico Manual v5.1
V5.1 14
4 Site survey
In order to comply with the requirements of the successful installation - including the
discussed four key factors and other criteria - the following matters should be taken
into consideration.
4.1 Link path
If the clear line of sight is available, further examination of the sites and optical path is
necessary after possible sources of temporary or periodic malfunction. No chimneys,
steam or other smoke sources may be present under or near to the beam path. They can
weaken the strength of the signal or can cause wandering of the beam. Heater vents and
air conditioners have similar effect as they can cause air turbulence. Scintillation from
rooftops or glass surfaces due to direct sunshine also may interrupt the beam. The
closer the source to the transmitter the greater it’s effect. Because both sides have
transmitter and receiver, the source of such symptoms in the middle has the less effect
on the overall system. If there are trees near the transmission path, consideration of
growth and the wind blown leaves into the into the transmission path is necessary.
Areas under construction can have moving obstacles like construction cranes that can
disturb the communication.
4.2 Installation sites
All buildings and constructions have a certain movement of their own. It’s determined
by the structure and material of the building. Metal structures can shift or twist due to
temperature changes. Wooden construction can expand or shrink with the changing of
humidity. Give preference to concrete or brick buildings. On the other hand high
structures like towers, skyscrapers or poles always subject to great movement. Mount
the support frame to basic holders of the building or near corners, as they are the most
stable spots. Use appropriate consoles for wall mounting. If a stand is used on the top
of a building, secure it directly to the ceiling or to the concrete cornice wherever is
possible. Do not fix stands to insulating materials as they can slowly sink under the
weight of the unit and with temperature changes. Big chimneys and smokestacks may
look stable, but as their inner temperature varies they can also move. Vibration caused
by heavy traffic, trains, elevators, etc. may slowly move the system out of its specified
direction. Another important consideration is to provide enough space for alignment
and to have the potential for future maintenance. Consider that the support frame is
usually heavy, so the selected spot should be easily accessible.
It is not only the building that has to be solid, but the support structure too. Antenna
poles, security camera holders are not suitable for the Black Box units. A catalogue of
more than 80 mounting frames can be ordered from the manufacturer (both available in
printed and CD ROM format. Please contact with Black Box Co. tech support for
details.