Ranger contains several wireless configuration options that allow the system to work at its best in different environments. The system is designed to work adequately using its default, automatic settings, but they may not be ideal for all situations. This section details all available wireless configuration options for the transmitter and receiver.
Wireless Settings
Enable Broadcast Mode
Enabling Broadcast Mode improves the system's maximum transmission range by allowing Ranger systems to operate without any back-channel communication between the receiver and transmitter and reduces any interference.
- Broadcast Mode Disabled (Standard Multicast Mode) - Transmitter and connected receiver(s) coordinate and maintain two-way communication with each other to optimize frequency usage and video transmission.
- Broadcast Mode Enabled - This allows the transmitter to connect to an unlimited number of receivers, as long as they have already been paired. To achieve even better range performance, attach the receiver to your Panel Antenna while in Broadcast Mode.
Enable Fixed Frequency
Fixed Frequency Mode bypasses any automatic frequency switching logic, allowing your Ranger system to always attempt to connect on a specified frequency. Once a frequency is selected, the transmitter will only use that frequency. This allows the transmitter to link/reconnect to the receiver much faster. After enabling Fixed Frequency mode, navigate to Frequencies and select a frequency within the selected wireless region (non-DFS frequencies only). For best results, ensure that both the transmitter and receiver have Fixed Frequency Mode enabled, and use the Spectrum Analyzer (on the receiver's front panel or the Launchpad app) to search for the least congested frequency to use.
- Fixed Frequency Mode Disabled - Ranger scans all available frequencies and repeatedly switches from one frequency to the next during transmission.
- Fixed Frequency Mode Enabled - Ranger connects to one specific frequency.
NOTE: By default, Ranger will select the lowest available frequency from the Frequencies list if one has not been selected beforehand.
Allow Licensed Channels
Enable or disable Licensed Channel selection within the Frequencies menu. Ranger supports an extended RF range of 4.9GHz to 6.0GHz, which includes both unlicensed and licensed channels. Selecting a specific licensed channel ensures there is no interference from other devices broadcasting within range. This is especially useful during large events such as sports or news broadcasts where multiple cameras are operating simultaneously. For all available frequencies, refer to the FREQUENCIES BY REGION chart.
NOTE: Fixed Frequency Mode must first be enabled to select a specific licensed channel. Otherwise, Ranger will automatically select a licensed channel (Auto Mode).
Select Bandwidth
The Bandwidth menu lets you choose between 40MHz (default) and 20MHz operating modes. Ensure that both the transmitter and receiver are set to the same bandwidth with a resolution of up to 1080p60. For all available frequencies, refer to the FREQUENCIES BY REGION chart.
- 20MHz - Reduces the amount of bandwidth by half, effectively doubling the number of usable frequencies while decreasing interference.
- 40MHz - (Default) Increases the amount of bandwidth by bonding two 20MHz frequencies, allowing for faster transfer rates but increased interference.
NOTE: 20MHz mode supports HD/3G resolutions up to 1080p60. Resolutions up to 4k30 are also supported but downscaled to 1080p before transmission (4k50/59/60 is not supported).
Select Frequency
The Frequencies menu contains a list of all available frequencies. Ranger will automatically select an operating frequency when multiple values are selected. If both the transmitter and receiver have Fixed Frequency Mode enabled, you can only select one frequency for Ranger to use. Frequencies marked with (DFS) must be scanned for one minute before they can be used, but are typically less crowded. For all available frequencies, refer to the FREQUENCIES BY REGION chart.
Video Quality
The Video Quality menu lets you adjust the balance between your signal’s maximum range and quality according to the number of antennas used to transmit fine information. Ranger has three picture quality levels that vary based on the lowest quality link or the furthest receiver.
- Auto Mode - (Default) Transmitter automatically determines how many fine antennas are needed based on the range and signal quality.
- Longer Distance Mode - Maintains the maximum range in situations where other sources of interference might be present, but will slightly reduce your video signal’s maximum quality.
- Better Quality Mode - Maintains higher signal quality but reduces the maximum range.