Correct installation height and mounting methods are essential for reliable Border Gateway performance. During site planning, consider these factors early to ensure your gateways have strong connectivity, stable power, and a secure installation location.
Why Height Matters
Border Gateways act as the primary communication link between the Silvanet network and the cloud.
Their height directly affects:
Connectivity range – Higher placement improves line-of-sight to Mesh Gateways and sensors.
Signal reliability – Elevated positions reduce the impact of terrain, trees, and obstacles.
Network stability – Consistent coverage reduces packet loss and data gaps.
Recommended Mounting Heights
Use these guidelines when selecting approximate installation heights during planning:
| Environment | Recommended Height | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Dense forest | minimum 3m | Mount above under-canopy vegetation for clearer signal paths. |
| Light forest or woodland | minimum 3m | Position where canopy gaps allow line-of-sight. |
| Open terrain or line-of-sight areas | 3 – 10 m | Take advantage of height to maximize coverage range. |
These are planning guidelines; final installation height may be adjusted during field deployment based on site conditions.
Adjustable Heights in the Site Planning Tool
The Site Planning Tool allows you to set custom gateway heights during the planning phase. Use this feature to adjust heights above the standard 3 m only in open line-of-sight areas, such as along roads, powerlines, or railway corridors. For most forested or wooded environments, sticking to the default 3 m is recommended to maintain optimal sensor performance and stability.
Choosing Mounting Locations
During pre-planning, identify potential mounting structures that are:
Stable and strong – Healthy trees or poles capable of supporting the gateway and solar equipment.
Unobstructed – Clear of nearby branches, foliage, or structures that could shade solar panels or block signal.
Accessible for maintenance – Within safe reach for future servicing or adjustments.
If natural mounting options are limited, consider installing dedicated poles or masts to achieve the desired height and line-of-sight.
Solar Orientation and Exposure
For solar-powered Border Gateways:
Orient solar panels south in the Northern Hemisphere or north in the Southern Hemisphere.
Verify exposure throughout the year to avoid seasonal shading.
Note potential shading sources such as nearby trees or terrain for future review.
Integrating Height and Mounting Into Site Planning
In the Silvanet Planning Tool, place your gateway and select the installation height. Use heights above 3 m only in open line-of-sight areas such as roads, powerlines, or railway corridors. Forested or wooded areas should always use the standard 3 m height.
For full details, see our article Configuring Gateway Heights in Your Site Plan
Note: Planning installation height and mounting methods in advance helps reduce adjustments during deployment and ensures optimal communication performance from day one.
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