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Border Gateway deployment locations

Deploy the Silvanet Border Gateway to ensure it reliably communicates with the Mesh Network and Silvanet Cloud.

Prerequisites

  • Line of sight to at least one Mesh Gateway.

  • Install at least 3 m high on the structure and, if possible, higher for better signal propagation.

  • install on the side of the tree or pole that faces the sun (where it would be at 12:00 noon). This allows the solar panel to face the same direction, as the panel cannot be behind the solar panel.

  • Attach to a stable metal pole using U-Bolt Clamps. This securely holds the device and can be tightened accordingly without damaging the device. Also, the device does not interfere with a living tree over the lifetime of the Border Gateway.

  • The diameter of a pole used to support the Border Gateway must not be greater than 60.3 mm. A 17 mm wrench is used to attach the M10-nuts to the U-Bolt Clamps.

  • To maximize the radio contact when attaching the Border Gateway to a pole, put the Gateway on top of the pole (if possible) so that the LoRa antenna is above the top of the pole.

  • If the Border Gateway is attached to a tree, ensure it is attached to a healthy tree and not expected to be cut down.

Deployment guidelines

Guideline Description
Range The range of a Border Gateway to a Mesh Gateway is approximately 2 km to 3 km. The actual range may vary depending on environmental conditions.
Location Due to its power supply and Internet connectivity requirements, the location should be chosen carefully. Deploy the Border Gateway at the edge of a forest and near a power supply. To maximize range, install the Border Gateway on a hill, or at least a higher location to maximize range. If the Border Gateway is powered by solar, select a sunny location with direct sunlight. If it is installed on a tree, the solar panel should not be covered by branches.
Power supply Provide a power supply from a Mains supply (solar panel as backup). See Power supply for details.
Internet Use Ethernet for Internet connectivity (recommended), otherwise use mobile connectivity with its built-in 4G/LTE-M with 2G/GPRS fallback. Also, provide a clear line of site for Satellite backup. For satellite connectivity, the Border Gateway provides a satellite antenna to connect the Silvanet Network to the Internet. It therefore needs a clear line of sight to connect to a satellite.
Deployment height 3 m height on trees or poles. When deployed near public areas, we recommend deploying the device at least 3 meters above the forest floor.
Obstructions The Border Gateway needs clear line of site to mobile networks. Whether the Border Gateway is installed on a tree or a pole, it needs a clear line of sight to communicate via wireless mobile networks or satellite communication. It also needs an unobstructed area to obtain sufficient sunlight for the solar panel to charge the device in case of mains power failure.
Solar panel orientation Install the solar panel facing the sun at 12:00 noon (northern or southern hemisphere). Use a compass to identify true South (in the northern hemisphere) or true North (in the southern hemisphere). This maximizes the amount of light that hits the solar panel. Also, select a location with direct sunlight (such as a hillside) and keep it free from branches that obscure direct sunlight.
Backup Gateway Ideally, for deployments greater than 1000 sensors, provide a backup Border Gateway.

Additional resources