WLS-9163

[bkslasi@email.arizona.edu]

We are using the WLS-9163 with the 9234 24-bit ADC.  The ADC works fine but the wireless communications is unreliable.  We can not turn off any potential sources of noise, the router and WLS-9163 are as close as possible (about 60m) within the constraints of our experiment, and we have oriented the antennas in the optimum directions as close as we can within the constraints of our experiment (orientations must vary somewhat during our experiment).

We purchased a TRENDnet Range Extender and compatible TRENDnet router and high-gain antenna. Unfortunately, no improvement in reliability.

Any suggestions on how we can get a better wireless signal?  What about bi-directional amplifiers between the router and its antenna and the WLS-9163 and its antenna?

Thanks.  Ben

[MikhailK]

Hi Ben,

Have a look at the following articles: [broken links removed; articles no longer available]

Extending the Range of Wireless Data Acquisition 

Wireless Data Acquisition: Range versus Throughput 

[MikhailK]

Hi Ben,

Another suggestion I have for you is to change the default wireless channel on your WLS-9163. The most common channels are 1,6 and 11, so switching to another channel might give you better performance. So try different channels (e.g. 3 and 9) and see if there is any improvement. The following article explains how to find the right channel for your setup: Troubleshooting Resources for the NI WLS/ENET-9163  Also, can you clarify your statement when you say "communications is unreliable"? Are you loosing samples or does your connection drop off? How do you measure the level of unreliability? Now, as far as placing bi-directional amplifiers between a signal source/sink and its antenna, this will boost your inward/outward signal and you can use them in combination with repeaters to obtain the best performance. What kind of power ratings were you considering for your amplifiers?