Wireless Security Communications

Figuring materials, labor and equipment, I figured we were looking at $2000 minimum to get the wire from point A to point B, and it would require our valuable installers to work under what could be termed “less than ideal” conditions.

We would probably get it done, because we always do. but it would require tight project management, a big effort from the crew, and we knew we would not be making any money on the entire project. What to do?

CANSEC AIR 485

Is a wireless RS-485 communications device that is compatible with any two-wire RS-485 product on the market? Wireless communications would provide a possible solution for this installation where the wired connection was cost prohibitive.

We were unsure if the CANSEC Air485 had adequate range for out application or if it would be compatible with our hardware.

My partner and I were very familiar with the site. We had already installed the new reader interface, and of course knew where the available controllers were, so I mounted one of the AIR485 modems convenient to the reader interface in the remote building, and Ray took the other modem which got designated as the Master over to where our first choice controller was and powered it up.

The AIR485 has a built-in signal strength indicator and the modems ‘saw’ each other immediately.

We knew from working with other wireless for decades that distance between the units was only one factor which could affect the operating range of a product.

Our chosen locations for the modems were more than 100 feet apart and separated by a total of three cinder block bulkheads, metal ducts, beams and T-bar and electrical and network wiring.

Once we had configured the controller for a new door, and set the appropriate address in the reader interface, we were at the point where we would usually complete the RS485 connections at both ends, and expect the devices to handshake and start exchanging data.

It was simple to match the channels in the two AIR 485 modems using the DIP switches on each unit. We connected each modem, powered them up, hit Reset and hoped real hard.

Bingo, the modems popped into action. A little fine tuning was required, which involved setting the signal level. This is measured again by viewing LEDs on the first modem and configuring the DIP switches appropriately. No meters, no logging in, no jumpers.

The installation was easier and performance of the AIR485s exceeded our expectations. We didn’t have to relocate either modem, or have to run any additional cable to an optimized second or third choice modem site.

Air-485^TM supports Point-to-Point and Point-to-Multipoint network topologies reliability.

Our application was point-to-point, but I reflected that had we used the AIR485 during previous door deployments, we could have used fewer controllers and expended way less blood sweat and tears and made more profit for the projects.

AIR 485 Features and Benefits:

• Works with any 2-wire RS-485 product
• Indoor/Urban: 900MHz: 400 m (1300 ft.) / 2.4GHz: 100m (335 ft)
• Line-of-sight: 900MHz: 10 km (6.2 miles) / 2.4GHz:1.6km (1 mile)
• 900 MHz / 2.4GHz Frequency Hopping Spread Spectrum (FHSS)
• Supports baud rate of 9600 kbps, 19200 kbps and 38400 kbps. Configurable via DIP switches
• 128-bit AES encryption
• Supports USB and RS-485connection with auto detect
• Supports point-to-point and point-to-multipoint network topologies, as well as multiple networks per site
• Built in signal strength indicator LEDs simplify device placement
• Size: 4.4 in x 3.4 in x 1 in
• Weight: 8 oz
• Environment: Indoor (Outdoor version available in NEMA enclosure)
• Frequency: 900 MHz FHSS / 2.4GHz FHSS
• Baud Rate: 9600 / 192000 / 38400 kbps (Selectable via DIP switches)
• RF Channels: 50
• Power: USB or 12VDC@1A (with optional power supply)
• Warranty: 1 year
• Certifications: FCC, CE

For more information on CANSEC products, contact your local locksmith distributor or Cansec Systems, 3105 Unity Drive, Unit 9, Mississauga, Ontario, Canada, L5L 4L2. Telephone: (905) 820-2404. Web Site: www.cansec.com.