📣Mounting Examples
Overview
Here are some examples of ways you can mount the radio to your robot. In each of these examples we'll discuss why it's good or bad.
The radiation patterns shown in the renders below are meant to be representative of the affect different mounting locations have on radio performance.
Example #1
In this configuration the radio is mounted on the outside of the robot's structure, with the status LEDs pointed towards the outside of the robot.
This is the best configuration because it creates the least amount of interference for the radio's antennas. The status LEDs are visible and make it easy for field staff to read them. The radio is mounted relatively high on the robot. There are very few metal obstructions around the antenna.
Final Verdict: Best
Example #2
In this configuration the radio is mounted between the robot's a-frame, with the status LEDs pointed towards the outside of the robot. However, there is a transparent plastic panel covering the status LEDs.
This configuration is not the best but is still acceptable. The robot's a-frame is surrounding the sides of the radio, which will affect antenna performance. However, the plastic panel doesn't impact antenna performance, which allows the radio to create a good link with the field access point (AP).
Final Verdict: Acceptable
Example #3
In this configuration the radio is mounted between the robot's a-frame, with the status LEDs pointed towards the centerline of the robot.
This is not a good mounting location for the radio. First, field staff will have a harder time seeing the status LEDs, which will make it harder for them to help you troubleshoot your robot. More importantly, the radio is broadcasting its signal into the rest of the robot's structure. This configuration has a greater impact on antenna performance, and likely cause the robot to have communication problems with the field access point (AP).
Final Verdict: Not Recommended
Example #4
In this configuration the radio is mounted on a plate with the rest of the robot's electronics. The status LEDs are pointing upwards.
This scenario depends on other factors to determine if it could be satisfactory. In this specific example, the radio is broadcasting into an arm, which is going to negatively impact performance. If there were no obstructions above the radio, then this would be an acceptable configuration.
Final Verdict: Depends
Example #5
In this configuration the radio is mounted on a plate with the rest of the robot's electronics. The status LEDs are pointing downward (towards the ground).
This is one of the worst ways you can mount your radio. In this scenario the radio is broadcasting into the ground, which has a significant impact on performance. In this scenario the field access point (AP) will likely have a hard time maintaining a good connection to the radio throughout the match.
Final Verdict: Not Acceptable
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