6
* Limited by the capacity of the ESP protocol. The capacity of the original wireless system –
1920 devices in a single system.
** Limited by the capacity of the ESP protocol. The capacity of the translator – 256 devices.
1.6 ANTENNAS IN TRANSLATORS AND EXPANDERS
Both the translator and the expander are
equipped with two antennas. One handles
primary communication with wireless devices,
and the other is used for scanning backup radio
channels. This allows the system to
automatically switch to a new channel in case of
strong radio interference.
In some rare cases, when it is necessary to
increase the communication range of a
translator/expander, the default antennas can be
replaced with more powerful external versions.
These antennas have to be compatible with the
868MHz range that is utilized by the system. The
equipment should be connected with a 50Ω
coaxial cable to the inputs on the board (center
core to “ANT” and metallic shield to “_|_”).
1.7 EXPANDERS: INSTALLATION GUIDELINES
Expanders should be used when
some wireless devices are too far from the translator
the translator’s communication range does not cover the necessary territory (e.g. the whole
building or one of the floors)
connection with wireless devices is weakened by external electromagnetic interference
the building has thick walls, metallic structures or other objects that significantly lower the
communication range of the translator and wireless devices
backup and alternative communication routes need to be provided in the system
The system designer needs to evenly disperse expanders across the premises in order to provide
a stable connection to the network in every part of the building. Wireless devices will automatically
choose the closest expander that will provide the strongest connection.
When designing a wireless fire alarm system, it is important to keep in mind that the
communication range between different wireless devices significantly depends on walls and
obstacles that can block radio communication. This is why it is recommended to check the
connection strength between different rooms in the building before designing and installing the
system.
