Enhancing Performance with External Antennas
The CTM-ONE comes equipped with internal antennas but offers the option to utilize external antennas when needed. It's important to select antennas based modem offers compatibility with a diverse range of external antennas. Choosing the right antenna depends on the specific application for which the device will be used. All antenna connectors utilize SMA jacks, except for Wi-Fi/Bluetooth, which require reverse polarity SMA (RP-SMA) connectors.
For optimal performance, antennas should be mounted vertically as high as possible and with clear line of sight in all directions. Regulatory requirements mandate that the device must be positioned to maintain a separation distance of at least 20cm (8") from any person.
The choice to utilize external antennas should be determined through a performance evaluation of how the product operates when positioned in the desired location within the vehicle or fixed site, whether it's for public safety, mass transit, remote monitoring, or ensuring wireless resilience. Optimal antenna selection is crucial for maximizing modem performance.
Wideband antennas (600-6000MHz) are particularly well-suited to accommodate the variety of radio technologies prevalent today.
For LTE, the CTM-ONE supports a 2x2 MiMo (Multiple Inputs Multiple Outputs) configuration, while Wi-Fi/Bluetooth and GPS(GNSS) are supported in 1x1 setups.
Combination antennas that support LTE/GPS(GNSS)/Wi-Fi offer an ideal low-profile solution, integrating multiple functionalities seamlessly.
Various mounting options are available, including thru-hole, adhesive mount, magnetic mount, bracket mount, and desk/window mount configurations. Selecting the most suitable mounting option ensures secure and efficient installation.
Additionally, antenna cable length can be customized for specific applications. It's advisable to minimize cable length whenever feasible to optimize performance.
Cellular
The cellular connection supports MIMO (multiple-input multiple-output) MiMo for LTE Category 1 and 4 models. To optimize performance, it is recommended to connect both the primary and secondary cellular antennas to an antenna system that supports diversity, or alternatively, to two separate antennas.
Technology | Frequency Range (MHz) |
LTE | CTM-ONE B2,4,12,13,17 CTM-ONE M GLOBAL B1,2,3,4,5,8,12,13,18,19,20,25,26,28 CTM-ONE PLUS B2,4,12,13,14,66,71 |
WCDMA EGPRS | CTM-ONE/PLUS II, IV, V CTM-ONE M 850/900/1800/1900 MHz |
GNSS
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GPS(GNSS)
The GPS(GNSS) antenna should be an active type with a minimum gain of 26dB and compatible with a 3.3 volt DC supply provided directly by the CTM-ONE via the coax cable. Typically, the antenna should be installed on the upper horizontal surface of a vehicle or building, ensuring a clear 360-degree view of the sky.
Connect a suitable GPS(GNSS) antenna to the port labeled "GPS". For optimal performance, choose a GPS antenna that supports GPS(GNSS), Glonass, Beidou, Compass, Galileo, and QZSS (GNSS) constellations.
Technology | Frequency Range (MHz) |
GPS/GLONASS/Galileo | L1 Band 1559-1610 |
Wi-Fi/Bluetooth
Local Wireless via Wi-Fi (802.11bgn) and Bluetooth (802.15.1) requires an external Wi-Fi antenna connected via a reverse polarity SMA connector.
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