Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1) What is Spread Spectrum RF?

A1) Spread Spectrum modulation methods comply with FCC part 15.247 regulations regarding low power unlicensed Radio Frequency transmitters. This robust transmission scheme spreads the data out over many separate radio frequencies and is therefore less susceptible to interference and jamming as well as being a very secure means for data transfer.

Q2) Why do I need wireless devices?

A2) Cost Savings - Although the product cost may be higher in some cases, eliminating wiring leads to a lower total installed cost.  The labor content of an installation is often the most unpredictable and involves the highest risk.  Wireless transmitters require no electrical subcontractor, no conduit, no drilling through concrete and no trenching across streets or parking lots.

Flexibility - Wireless devices are easier to relocate when tenant spaces are re-divided and walls are moved.  In addition, if the original placement of a temperature sensor does not provide the occupant comfort, simply relocate the sensor without expensive wiring changes.

Difficult Installations - Owners of historic buildings and upscale areas with marble (etc.) are concerned about damage from wiring installation.  Wireless devices are the perfect answer.  In addition, thick concrete or long wiring runs in some buildings can make wiring difficult.

Q3) How far can these wireless devices transmit?

A3) The maximum open air signal transmission distance between a transmitter and a receiver is one mile. In a commercial building this distance is dependent upon building type.  

 

In a typical building with steel I-beam construction, concrete floors with reinforcing rod, and metal stud walls, it can be expected that transmissions will penetrate vertically through floors and horizontally through walls for a distance of 200 to 500 feet.  This means that a receiver would generally be able to cover at least three floors - one floor above and one floor below.  In cases where transmission problems are encountered an RR1552 repeater can easily be installed to increase the overall distance between sensor and controller.  By using more than one RR1552 repeater in a loop you can cover virtually any distance desired.

The S-Tran survey tool can be used to determine the transmission distances in a building prior to installation.  This tool gives an extremely accurate assessment of transmission capabilities in any location in any building.

Q4) Will radio stations, cell phones, pagers and cordless phones interfere with Trs Systems wireless products?  Will Trs Systems wireless products interfere with radio stations, cell phones, pagers and cordless phones?

A4) No.  Our wireless products use Spread Spectrum Radio Frequency technology.  This allows radio signals to be transmitted at an unlicensed, low power signal level.  The low power level of our RF transmissions is below the normal background noise levels encountered by radio stations, cell phones, pagers and cordless phones.  

Our receivers use advanced digital signal processing techniques to easily decode the wireless transmissions from our products.  They do not listen to any signals that do not match their exact frequency spreading pattern. 

Q5) How often will I have to change batteries in the transmitters?

A5) Our unique low power transmitter design allows for multi-year battery life of up to 5 years in most applications.

Q6) How will I know when it is time to change batteries?

A6) Our battery powered devices monitor the battery voltage.  As the battery voltage approaches the lower limit for operation a low battery indication signal is sent to the receiver.  The signal is sent approximately 2 months before a new battery is needed.