High Gain Antenna SOP for Installers
Standard Operating Procedure (SOP)
| Title | Installation of a Network High-Gain Antenna (e.g., Poynting) for APN Internet Connectivity |
| Version | 1.0 |
| Date | 21st November 2023 |
| Owner | Tuso Business Dynamics |
| Audience | Network Engineers, IT Support Teams, and Installation Technicians |
1. Purpose
To provide a standardized approach for installing a high-gain antenna, such as a Poynting antenna, to enhance APN internet connectivity in health facilities or other designated sites.
2. Scope
This SOP applies to IT technicians, network engineers, and support personnel responsible for the deployment and configuration of network high-gain antennas in facilities utilizing an APN connection for internet access.
3. Audience
- IT Technicians
- Network Engineers
- Site Support Staff
4. Responsibilities
- IT Technicians: Perform the installation and ensure proper alignment of the antenna.
- Network Engineers: Provide technical oversight and configuration support.
- Site Support Staff: Assist with on-site logistical requirements and report connectivity performance.
5. Required Tools and Materials
- High-gain antenna (e.g., Poynting XPOL-24)
- Teltonika Router or equivalent with APN configuration support
- Coaxial cables (e.g., SMA or TS9 connectors)
- Mounting brackets and hardware
- Adjustable wrench and screwdrivers
- Signal testing device or mobile app for signal strength measurement (e.g., LTE Discovery)
- Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), such as gloves and a safety harness for elevated installations
6. Procedure
6.1 Pre-Installation Preparation
- Site Assessment:
- Conduct a site survey to determine the optimal antenna installation location with minimal obstructions (e.g., clear line of sight to the nearest cell tower).
- Identify high points for mounting, such as rooftops or towers.
- Signal Testing:
- Use a signal testing device or mobile app to measure signal strength (RSSI, RSRP, SINR) in different directions to identify the strongest signal source.
- Equipment Inspection:
- Verify that all components of the antenna kit are intact and compatible with the router.
- Ensure the router is configured with the correct APN details.
6.2 Installation
- Mounting the Antenna:
- Securely attach the antenna to the mounting bracket using the provided hardware.
- Install the bracket at the identified location, ensuring stability against wind and weather conditions.
- Use a level tool to ensure the antenna is installed straight.
- Connecting the Cables:
- Connect the coaxial cables from the antenna to the router.
- Ensure all connections are tight and waterproofed (use weatherproof tape if necessary).
- Aligning the Antenna:
- Adjust the antenna direction towards the nearest cell tower for optimal signal reception.
- Use the signal testing device or app to fine-tune the alignment for the strongest signal.
6.3 Testing and Optimization
- Power On the System:
- Turn on the router and verify that the antenna is receiving a signal.
- Confirm that the APN connection is active.
- Signal Monitoring:
- Check signal metrics (RSSI, RSRP, SINR) on the router’s dashboard or network monitoring tool.
- Optimize antenna positioning if signal strength is below acceptable thresholds.
- Speed Test:
- Conduct a speed test to ensure the internet connection meets performance requirements.
6.4 Documentation and Handover
- Record Keeping:
- Document the installation details, including site location, equipment used, signal metrics, and speed test results.
- Capture before and after photos of the installation.
- Training and Handover:
- Brief the site support staff on basic troubleshooting steps.
- Provide contact information for further support.
7. Safety Considerations
- Always wear PPE when working at heights.
- Avoid working in adverse weather conditions, such as rain or strong winds.
- Use a spotter when climbing or handling heavy equipment.
8. Troubleshooting Tips
- If the signal remains weak after alignment, consider:
- Changing the installation location.
- Checking for cable damage or loose connections.
- Using a higher mast for better line-of-sight.
9. References
- Antenna User Manual
- Router Configuration Guide
- Network Monitoring Tools Documentation
10. Revision History
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Network Performance Testing Checklist Post-Antenna Installation
This checklist is designed to validate network performance after the installation of a high-gain antenna. It ensures that the boosted network connection meets required performance metrics for APN internet connectivity.
Checklist Items
Signal Strength Validation:
- – Use a signal testing device or app (e.g., LTE Discovery) to measure signal metrics (RSSI, RSRP, SINR).
- – Ensure the following thresholds are met:
| Metric | Optimal Range | Description |
| RSSI | Closer to -70 dBm or better | Indicates strong signal strength; higher values represent better quality. |
| RSRP | Between -80 dBm and -100 dBm | Reflects the strength of the reference signal received by the device. |
| SINR | 10 dB or higher | Measures signal-to-noise ratio; higher values indicate better signal quality relative to interference. |
Cable Connection Check:
- – Verify all coaxial cable connections are secure and properly waterproofed.
- – Inspect cables for any physical damage or wear.
Antenna Alignment Confirmation:
- – Ensure the antenna is aligned toward the nearest cell tower for optimal reception.
- – Fine-tune alignment using real-time signal metrics displayed on the testing device or app.
Router Configuration Validation:
- – Confirm the router is configured with the correct APN details.
- – Check that the router detects the antenna signal without interruptions.
Internet Speed Testing:
- – Conduct an internet speed test using online tools or apps.
- – Ensure download and upload speeds meet or exceed the expected benchmarks for the facility type.
| Facility Type | Download Speed | Upload Speed |
| Health Posts | 10 Mbps | 2 Mbps |
| Medium Facilities | 50 Mbps | 10 Mbps |
| High-Volume Facilities | 100 Mbps | 20 Mbps |
- – Verify that latency remains below 50 ms under optimal conditions.
Network Stability Testing:
- – Simulate peak usage scenarios to test stability and throughput.
- – Confirm that there are no significant fluctuations in signal strength or connection quality.
Monitoring Setup Verification:
- – Ensure all network devices are integrated into the monitoring system (e.g., Zabbix).
- – Verify SNMP and ICMP protocols are enabled for remote performance tracking.
Documentation and Handover:
- – Record the installation details, including signal metrics, speed test results, and alignment angles.
- – Take photos of the installed antenna for reference.
- – Provide basic troubleshooting training to the on-site support staff.
