Wi-Fi HaLow Radio Technology 9
Line of Sight: Effect of the Survey Rod (Range Pole)
If the survey rod is in the line of sight between the Trimble EM130 antenna and the SX12 antenna,
it's possible that the user could experience issues with the radio performance. Whether using the
fiber carbon or aluminum rods, if the EM130 antenna is too close to the rod (less than about 2
inches), the rod can partially block the radio signal.
If the data collector has more than one Empower module bay, Trimble recommends mounting the
EM130 module on the bay farthest from the rod to help mitigate this effect. Moreover, if you
experience radio issues, try rotating the rod to allow for a clear line of sight.
Effect of Environmental Elements: Multipath
Reflection of radio waves off of various objects, such as heavy machinery, could result in radio
signals arriving at the receiver via two or more routes, known as multipath. When this occurs it
results in laggy video quality.
When this is the case, if possible, move the Data Collector fitted with the EM130 module 1–2
meters in any direction to improve the performance.
In indoor environments, multipath can actually help reduce the need for line of sight. Though
multipath can affect the video quality, it can also ensure the signal bounces around obstructions
where you otherwise would not be able to receive a signal.
