I have a question concerning the output of this unit. In the data sheet, I see listed:
Max RF Output Up to +25 dBm
Can someone please clarify what this means? Do I have to adjust a setting to reach this maximum power? I guess I am not certain about the words “Up to.”
The reason why I ask, is because I am trying to maximize my Effective Isotropic Radiated Power. Knowing how the unit functions will allow me to know how much gain in my antenna do I need for maximum EIRP. Also, is the RF Output adjustable within the unit.
Any clarification or guidance on this would be much appreciated. Thanks
I think the subject says it all. I am wondering if the GPS antenna that comes with this unit is an indoor/outdoor antenna. It has to be pretty close to the unit, but needs to see the light . I’ve seen pictures of it outside, but it doesn’t “feel” all that durable. If anyone has a definitive answer, I’d love to hear it.
Thanks to any responders
Hi YoungJah,
We have merged these two topics together since they are both questions regarding the [LoRa Raspberry Pi Gateway. For your question about the RF output, you are correct. That is an adjustable setting that will be set by the user. Increasing the transmit power will increase how much power the gateway draws so it is important to set it properly depending on how you intend to power the gateway. For example, if it were battery powered, you would want to tweak it so you get the best balance between transmit power and current draw so you can optimize your battery life. There is a table in the datasheet with some more information on settings to adjust the nominal RF Power Level.
As for your question regarding the GPS antenna, we do not have a definitive answer as we do not manufacture this product. Since it is magnetic, I would assume it has some measure of weather-proofing on it so it would be indoor/outdoor. You will select either option when you set up your gateway in the TTN Console.
All the information we have available from the manufacturer can be found on the product page. Here are direct links to the [Datasheet, [User Manual, and the manufacturer’s [Tutorial Video.
I hope this information helps clear up any confusion.](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bea7g5isD0w&feature=youtu.be)](https://cdn.sparkfun.com/assets/2/5/1/f/0/RAK831_Pilot_Gateway_User_Manual_V1.0.pdf)](https://cdn.sparkfun.com/assets/8/6/3/6/0/RAK831_Pilot_Gateway_Product_Specification_V1.0.pdf)](LoRa Raspberry Pi Gateway with Enclosure - WRL-14869 - SparkFun Electronics)
That definitely helps Mark. Thank you. I have one last question. It looks like at the end of your first paragraph, you had more to say, but it was erased.
For example, if it were battery powered, you would want to tweak it so you get the best balance between transmit power and current draw so you can optimize your battery life. There is a table in the datasheet with some
Would you mind finishing that thought for me?
Thanks again for the answers and the help!
Sorry about that. My previous post has been edited to complete that.
Not a problem Mark. Thanks again for the help. Much needed and much appreciated.