The A2M, from Blue Water Design, is a transmit-only, low-power ALERT2 Intelligent Network Device (IND). Designed for unattended operation at remote gauging sites, the A2M can be powered from a 10W solar panel. Using Configurable Forward Error Correction and 250ms TDMA slots, the A2M makes efficient use of limited radio spectrum.
Blue Water Design has enhanced the proven G2012 design, adding new features and several refinements. In addition to the firmware enhancements, the hardware interface has been modernized. The Console port has been upgraded to a microUSB connector, and the bulky DB9 connectors have been replaced with much smaller connectors.
The A2M offers Configurable Forward Error Correction, allowing sites to transmit roughly 100% more data in the same amount of time, given a clear radio path. Three FEC settings are available: the original ALERT2 settings, and two new modes designed for sites that have good or great radio paths. The A2M is capable of both transmitting and receiving in any of the new FEC modes.
The A2M can be configured to use 250ms TDMA slots with the new Configurable Forward Error Correction. Cutting the minimum TDMA slot length in half and increasing the data throughput allows systems to almost double their capacity or halve their TDMA cycle time and reporting latency.
The A2M offers a 15% power usage reduction over our previous generation product, without sacrificing any functionality.
