1Planning
Planning is key to the success of any hardware installation. There are many things to consider when
installing a wireless system into a space. Key elements for consideration are listed in the sections below.
1.1 Coverage
In a typical commercial space expected coverage area of about 4,000 sq. ft. per Gateway. However,
the area of coverage for each Gateway is dependent on the layout and construction of the facility
where it is installed. A Gateway in an open floor plan will have a larger coverage area than a closed
floor plan with many walls. Building construction materials also affect coverage –drywall and glass
permit more coverage than brick and concrete. Note that brick or concrete walls should be planned
around, as signals have poor penetration through these types of walls. If coverage is required on
both sides of a brick or concrete wall, plan for a Gateway on each side.
If a higher level of coverage planning precision is required, Rigado suggests using a Wi-Fi site
planning tool to simulate coverage. There are multiple planning tools available online, both free
and professional. For use in this application it should allow for changing the Access Points transmit
power and characteristics for the Rigado Gateway.
1.2 Connections
The types of connections required should be taken into consideration when planning a new install.
In order to function, the Gateway needs both a power and internet connection. For power, the
options are Power over Ethernet (PoE) or AC wall power (adapters available upon request). For
internet connection, the two options are Wi-Fi, Ethernet, or LTE (500-W only).
Rigado suggests using PoE-enabled Ethernet for Gateway connection. PoE connections allow for
both data and power to be provided to the Gateway, requiring only one cable for installation.
Special consideration needs to be given when choosing to use Wi-Fi, as the Gateway is an always-
connected device without a physical user interface.
1.3 Placement
Correct placement of Gateways is important for getting the desired coverage. Generally, mounting
Gateways up high and out of reach is recommended, as this improves line of sight while making the
units more difficult to tamper with. Special consideration should be given to any metal near the
mounting area, such as in support beams or HVAC ducts, as it is not recommended to mount the
Gateway directly to any large metal surface.
Gateways do not need to be visible for operation. It is common to mount Gateways above drop
ceilings, to either the wall or a drop from the ceiling. When mounting above drop ceilings or in
open office style spaces, it is recommended to mount the Gateway below the level of any ceiling
HVAC ducts to avoid dead spots.
