– Frequency Range – How far apart do you want the receivers to be? Generally, the students with the smaller units choose the frequency range that is less than 8 miles (for example, 6.35 miles) from the point of origin. The students who need higher frequency range may want to consider increasing the distance from the transmitter to the receiving unit.
– Reception Gain – How large should the receiving antenna and spacing between the receiving antenna and transmitter be? Generally, the smaller students like a reception gain of ten or more dB. The larger students may want a slightly lower gain to improve signal quality.
– Transmitter Resolution – How accurate is the test software? When it comes to electronics, how accurate are we making assumptions about the testing software? Students must be aware of the test software accuracy because they will have to repeat test results on the exam.
– TX Power – How powerful is the transmitter? Transmitters with small power consumption and large input power supply provide more confidence that the test is giving an accurate reading. A TX power meter is an important element of any receiving equipment. The TX power meter is available in large format or small format.
– Shipping – Should the test be sent to you, or should it be sent to the testing center? Shipping can cost a great deal, but if it is sent to the testing center, it can save you a lot of time and money in the long run.
– Data Storage – What types of files should you consider storing? Files for last year’s tests are very different from data for this year’s tests. It is important to find a device that stores as much data as possible without having to store too much data at one time.
– Tracking – Is a GPS necessary for tracking? Students are often wondering if GPS is a must for their receiver or if there are other ways to track them. The safest option is always to have a GPS.
– Range – Does the receiver come with a built in receiver range finder? Some receivers, especially those that are not used all year long, do not come with built in range finders. In such cases, it may be a good idea to purchase a range finder module for future use.
– Current Capability – Does the radio come with batteries or a battery charger? Batteries are a necessity for students who need to move around a lot during the day. With the cost of batteries constantly rising, students need to find a receiver that has a battery charger to make sure they have power at all times.
– Class Compatibility – What kind of class will the receiver be used for? The selection of classes must be based on student needs. Students who need to move around a lot may need to select a receiver that is able to operate on a variety of frequencies and transmitter resolutions.
These are just a few of the features to consider when choosing a receiver for your university exams. These guidelines will help you make a good decision for your classroom electronics projects.
