Antenna alignment tool

23 November 2011 Manufacturing / Production Technology, Hardware & Services

The AntennAlign Alignment Tool (AAT) from Sunsight Instruments is a highly accurate alignment system used during antenna installation and maintenance. It measures alignment in azimuth, tilt, roll and (optionally) AGL height. Installer friendly, the system is simple to operate in awkward locations. A single person can measure and assign the results to a given antenna, instantly creating a permanent record of its alignment for accountability and traceability.

After mounting the AAT, the installer adjusts the antenna until all position indicators align, tightens the mounting brackets, and presses the ‘capture’ button. This records the final alignment specification along with latitude, longitude, installer, current date/time and more. Records can be reviewed and reports can be generated on the AAT directly, or the alignment data can be archived centrally and accessed by carriers or contracting companies to certify the installation work was performed as specified.

The AntennAlign data file format is fully supported by Sunsight’s AntennAlign Profile Manager (APM) software which is used to create, administer, review and report alignment records from one or more AATs. It archives antenna alignment history in an enterprise quality database management system (SQL) and can export job-related alignment targets, which may be e-mailed to tower crews for display on the AAT. The software can also import results of tower crew alignment work and interface with planning and optimisation tools.

The alignment tool is hardened for use on live antennas and comes with multiple mounting options (stealth friendly) as well as a gyroscope option when GPS satellites are obscured. It enables long range Wi-Fi remote configuration and control and also has a laser range finder for measuring height.

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