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GRB Technology Wireless Installation Best Practice Guide - Rajant BreadCrumb




Introduction

At GRB Technology, we are specialists in the field of wireless system installations for industrial applications. This guide outlines best practices for installing wireless nodes, particularly Rajant BreadCrumb® devices, across a variety of mobile and fixed assets such as trucks, excavators, and fixed infrastructure.

While GRB Technology does not supply the hardware, we focus on ensuring installations are executed flawlessly in line with Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) guidelines and tailored site requirements. This document serves as a guide for the installation of BreadCrumb® wireless nodes, emphasizing mounting, power integration, and cable management practices.


Wireless Node Types

For industrial and mining applications, we typically work with the following wireless nodes:

  • ME4-2450R – Dual Radio Node: 1 x 2.4GHz MiMo, 1 x 5.8GHz SiSo.

  • HAWK FE1-2450 – Dual Radio Node: 1 x 2.4GHz, 1 x 5.8GHz.

  • Peregrine FE1-2255B – 4 Radio Node: 2 x 2.4GHz MiMo, 2 x 5.8GHz MiMo.

  • Peregrine FE1-2455BLW Hybrid Node – Supports MiMo and CAT 12 LTE radios.


All antenna connections use Low Loss Cable, such as LMR400 Ultra Flex, for machine installations, ensuring minimal RF loss over long distances.


Installation Best Practices

Preliminary Information

Before starting the installation, it is essential to:

  • Program, label, and test each BreadCrumb® node before physical installation.

  • Ensure that wireless nodes are mounted securely with appropriate vibration protection.

  • Use low-loss coaxial cables to maintain optimal signal strength.

  • Identify locations for cabling, ensuring they avoid moving or hot components, and provide adequate service loops where necessary.


Antenna Installation & Orientation

The standard antennas used in these installations are vertically polarized, omni-directional dipole antennas. Proper placement is crucial to maintaining signal integrity:

  • Install antennas vertically to preserve omnidirectional coverage.

  • Maintain proper separation between antennas to avoid interference.

  • Use appropriate weatherproofing materials such as cold shrink tubing to protect cable connections in harsh environments.


For best results, antennas should be mounted at the highest point on the equipment, free from obstruction.


Infrastructure Installations

Wireless nodes may be installed on both fixed infrastructure (e.g., towers and buildings) and mobile infrastructure (e.g., trailers and mobile rigs). When installing on infrastructure:

  1. Pre-configure and label BreadCrumbs before installation.

  2. Ensure nodes are mounted 12 to 18 inches from vertical structures to reduce interference from nearby metal objects.

  3. Use LMR400 Ultra Flex coax cables to connect antennas to nodes on mobile infrastructure.


Cabling and Weatherproofing

Correct cabling and weatherproofing are critical to long-term performance:

  • Use non-split conduit with appropriate end fittings to protect coaxial cables from environmental damage.

  • Avoid sharp bends and ensure that all connectors are tightly secured and weatherproofed.

  • Heat shrink or cold shrink tubing is recommended for weatherproofing connections, and liquid electrical tape can further seal connectors where necessary.


Power Integration

GRB Technology ensures proper power connections for BreadCrumb® nodes, which can be powered using either AC or DC sources. In mobile installations:

  • Use passive PoE injectors to power nodes, ensuring that the correct power mode is selected (24V Mode B).

  • For DC installations, install a 3-amp inline fuse to protect both the power supply and the BreadCrumb® node from surges.


Shovel/Excavator Installation Guide

Mounting the BreadCrumb®

  1. Identify ideal mounting locations on the shovel or excavator, ensuring it is away from rotating or moving parts.

  2. Install the node either inside the operator cab or a NEMA enclosure for additional protection.

  3. Use LMR400 Ultra Flex cables to minimize RF loss between the antenna and node.


Atenna Mounting and Coax

  • Plan the cable route, ensuring it avoids high-heat or high-vibration areas.

  • Secure the coax with P-clamps or zip ties to prevent damage due to vibration.

  • Test all connections with a SWR meter to ensure proper functionality before moving to verification.


Haul Truck Installation Guide

Planning for BreadCrumb® Installation

  1. Identify suitable locations on the haul truck, considering wing mirrors for best antenna placement.

  2. Ensure node locations allow for clear visibility of LED indicators to check the system status easily.


Power Integration

  1. Securely mount the BreadCrumb® injector to protect it from elements such as vibration and moisture.

  2. Use shielded CAT6 outdoor-rated cables for Ethernet and power connections.


Test and Verification

Upon completing the installation, GRB Technology performs a thorough test and verification procedure:

  • Verify network connectivity using BC|Commander or similar tools.

  • Test antenna signal strength and RF path to ensure all nodes are meshing correctly.

  • Log results from each test for future reference and troubleshooting.


Appendix: Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs)

The following technical service bulletins (TSBs) should be referenced for detailed guidance on grounding, weatherproofing, and surge protection:

  • F.1: Grounding and Surge Protection

  • F.2: Waterproofing RF Connections

  • F.3: Waterproofing Cable Connections


This guide serves as a comprehensive reference for GRB Technology’s wireless installation processes, ensuring optimal installation, power integration, and performance testing. By following these best practices, our team delivers high-quality installations that meet the functional and safety standards required for industrial wireless networks

 
 
 

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