Using Radio Mobile for Windows
Plotting a Point-to-Point Link
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Creating a plot of a point-to-point (PtP) link is just as easy as creating a basic coverage plot but there are a couple more steps involved. First create a new map centered at -84.46554 W and 45.67827 N. With the pixel width and height set to 1000 and the height in KM set to 15 as before. The resulting map should look similar to Figure 31 below.
Figure 31: Example Map
Next click on File and select Unit Properties. Turn off the CPE and Access Point units by clearing the check from the box next to "Enabled." This is not necessary although it removes a little clutter from the screen. You should now see two icons labeled Bridge1 and Bridge2 overlayed on the map. These are the endpoints of the point-to-point link. To see a profile of the radio link click on Tool and select the first option, radio link. You should see a window similar to Figure 32.
Figure 32: Radio link
Here you can see a side profile of the radio link as well as the 1st and 2nd Fresnel zones. Under the view menu you can select an option to swap the endpoints of the link to see how the terrain effects the link in both directions. This can produce some interesting results. It can also help you diagnose a troublesome link.
If you would like to export the plot to RmPath click on edit, select export to and then select RmPath (Figure 33.) You will be prompted for a name for the profile. Enter a name and click on save (Figure 34.) This will save the plot and open the RmPath tool (Figure 35.) RmPath will display a close up view of the Fresnel Zone. Note that this does not take tree coverage or buildings into consideration; this is a view of the link over flat terrain.
Figure 33: Export to RmPath
Figure 34: Saving a Profile
Figure 35: RmPath
This tutorial has been a simple overview to get someone up and running quickly with Radio Mobile. There are many other things this software can accomplish. The best way to learn the software is to take a few GPS readings and experiment with different settings. It is also beneficial to configure the networks, systems and units using equipment that you plan on using. I have found Radio Mobile to be accurate about 80% of the time.
I hope this tutorial has been useful. If you have suggestions that would improve this document please use the contact form or post suggestions to the Yahoo! Discussion Group for Radio Mobile.