Site Planning

Listed below are the recommended guidelines for implementing an ESTeem radio frequency (RF) data communications system.

1. Perform RF Site Survey. The foundation of a radio network
is the RF Site Survey. The EST Customer Support engineer performs on-site
measurements and analysis to determine factors needed to design the RF data communications system including RF signal levels between all nodes, co-channel emitter frequencies/signal strengths, and RF data quality. Additional design input is given on antenna selection and location, feedline requirements, and lightning/power protection for each node, as well as specific installation requirements as dictated by the customer's application. After completion of the analysis, a formal Site Survey Report is prepared to document the above findings and the installation/hardware requirements for the site.

2. Obtain Site License (If Required). The Federal
Communications Commission (FCC) requires a site license for operation of the ESTeem products for commercial applications in the United States.  This license guarantees the user their own individual frequency that is free from co-channel interference. EST Phone Technical Support will provide technical assistance to customers applying for their license directly or the name of companies that provide "turn-key" licensing assistance. The typical licensing time is four to six weeks.

3. Select Systems Integrator. Select a qualified systems
integrator based on the project requirements. EST can provide, upon request, company names of referenced integrators. As an aid to integrators, EST provides in-house monthly factory training at no-charge on the ESTeem products, including operation, programming, and installation. EST has available an Engineering Report library to aid the integrator in hardware interfacing.

4. Purchase Equipment. It is recommended that the ESTeem hardware be shipped to the integrators facility for system mockup and testing prior to installation on site. Low cost antennas are available to the integrator for in-house testing. EST Phone Technical Support is available at no-charge for all phases of site design and integration.

5. Perform Site Installation. EST provides a Technical
Bulletin library to aid the installer. Factory tested coaxial cables can be
provided saving the integrator considerable time and expense on site. If a Site
Survey has been performed, this document provides valuable information regarding a detailed hardware list for each node including height of antenna towers, feedline type and length, and other information which could greatly influence the installation cost.

6. Perform Site Commissioning. EST Customer Support personnel are available to provide on site technical assistance for startup and customer
training.