Handheld-Endpoint Orientation

The orientation of a handheld's or Itron Mobile Radio's antenna relative to an ERT module's internal antenna is important to the success of communications between the two devices. How far you hold the handheld or Itron Mobile Radio (IMR) from the module and the direction and angle of the antenna all affect the device's ability to successfully read and program the module.

Different types of Itron ERT modules have different radio transmission and reception characteristics, due to their design and power supply differences. With most module types, you will get the most reliable results when you align the handheld's antenna in the same direction as the module's internal antenna, no more than a foot away from the module, the closer the better.

The information and illustration provided here apply to most ERT module installations. However, each installation is unique, so you may need to experiment to find the best orientation for your device's antenna in any given situation.

The high-powered ERT modules, such as the 60W/WP water ERT module and the 100G ERT module, have a longer, more variable transmission range. For these, you must experiment to determine the best range for each module. You must use an Itron Mobile Radio to read 60WP, 80W-i, and 100-series ERT modules.

Note: To avoid overexposure to radio waves when using an Itron Mobile Radio, Itron recommends holding the device eight inches (20 cm) away from your body when transmitting.