POP Module 4 - Sector Antenna

Wireless Alignment and Optimization

Learn wireless fundamentals, sector antenna operation, LiteBeam alignment techniques, signal optimization tools, and troubleshooting connectivity issues

Learning Objectives

By the end of this module, you will be able to:

Understand how wireless signals propagate in rural agricultural settings
Identify the role of the Rocket M2 sector antenna at the hub building
Perform precise LiteBeam alignment using signal strength feedback
Use alignment tools and mobile apps to optimize connectivity
Troubleshoot common connectivity issues including interference and weather impacts
Maintain stable, high-performance wireless links over time

Rocket M2 Sector Antenna at Hub

Understanding the central hub antenna that serves all POPs

 

The Rocket M2 sector antenna is mounted on the main ASC building and serves as the "hub" that connects to all deployed POP trailers. Understanding its characteristics helps with POP alignment and troubleshooting.

 

Rocket 5AC Prism Specifications

Frequency Range
5.15 - 5.875 GHz
Max TX Power
27 dBm (500 mW)
Antenna Gain
16 dBi (sector)
Coverage Pattern
90° horizontal
Max Throughput
500+ Mbps
Concurrent Clients
Up to 200+

What This Means for POPs:

  • The sector antenna covers a 90° arc from the building
  • POPs must be deployed within this coverage arc
  • Multiple POPs can connect to the same sector antenna simultaneously
  • Total bandwidth is shared among all connected POPs

Sector Antenna Coverage Pattern

Unlike omnidirectional antennas that radiate in all directions, a sector antenna focuses its signal into a specific arc (90° in this case). This provides longer range and better performance in the covered area.

Coverage Characteristics:

Horizontal Beamwidth: 90° (±45° from center)
Vertical Beamwidth: ~7° (narrow focus)
Effective Range: Up to 5 km with LOS
Signal Strength: Strongest at center
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Important Alignment Consideration:

POPs deployed near the edges of the 90° coverage arc (±40° to ±45° from center) will have weaker signals than those near the center. If possible, deploy POPs within ±30° of the sector antenna's center pointing direction for best performance.

Hub Antenna Location at Each ASC

Each ASC has a Rocket 5AC Prism sector antenna mounted on the main building. Knowing the exact location and pointing direction is essential for POP deployment planning.

Farmington ASC

  • Building: Main research building
  • Mounting: South-facing wall, ~25 ft
  • Coverage: SE to SW (research fields)

Alcalde ASC

  • Building: Office/lab building
  • Mounting: West-facing wall, ~20 ft
  • Coverage: NW to SW (orchards/fields)

Corona ASC

  • Building: Main facility building
  • Mounting: East-facing wall, ~30 ft
  • Coverage: NE to SE (range areas)

Mora ASC

  • Building: Research center
  • Mounting: South-facing roof, ~35 ft
  • Coverage: SE to SW (experimental plots)
Before Deployment:

Contact ACES IT coordinator to verify the exact sector antenna location, mounting height, and coverage direction.

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