RFMASTER ™ QUICK REFERENCE GUIDE Revised 07.27.2023 www.waterfordconsultants.com Confidential– This document contains copyrighted, trademarked, confidential, proprietary, and/or privileged information. Any review, retransmission or other use, or taking of any action in reliance upon this information by unauthorized persons or entities is strictly prohibited except as may be expressly authorized in writing by Waterford Consultants, LLC. RFMASTER TABLE OF CONTENTS SECTION 01 GETTING STARTED 03 SECTION 02 PROJECT MODE 25 SECTION 03 SITE PLAN MODE 35 SECTION 04 WORKSPACE MODE 61 SECTION 05 RF DESIGN MODE 65 SECTION 06 MODELING MODE 87 SECTION 07 MITIGATION MODE 110 SECTION 08 REPORTS MODE 120 SECTION 09 SUPPORT RESOURCES 127 SECTION 10 FAQ’s & SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS 129 SECTION 11 GLOSSARY 131 SECTION NAME SECTION 01 GETTING STARTED 04 LAUNCH WINDOW 05 CREATING A PROJECT 09 INTERFACE & NAVIGATION 24 CREATING ADDITIONAL SCENARIOS GETTING STARTED 3 GETTING STARTED LAUNCH WINDOW When the application is first launched RFMaster’s launch window will appear. This window will help users begin a new project or open a recent session. The window will also provide the latest news and access to available updates as you get started. If you have a support need, suggestion or new feature request, please feel free to click the email link and drop us a line. We want to hear from you: rfmaster@waterforconsultants.com GETTING STARTED 4 GETTING STARTED CREATING A PROJECT To create a new project from the launch window, click “New Project” button. After clicking “New Project” a second window prompt will appear. Enter the project name and scenario name. Click the “Create” button to begin the session. Users can define a specific save location on their machine by clicking the “Browse” button. The default location is the “Documents” folder. GETTING STARTED 5 Creating a New Project from the File Menu New Projects can also be started while in a current session. Navigate to the File menu and select “New” from the drop-down list. A save prompt will appear to save any changes to the current session. GETTING STARTED 6 Opening a Saved Project from the Launch Window To open a saved project, click the “Open Project” button on the launch window. After clicking the “Open Project” button, a file explorer window will appear. From here the saved file can be located on the user’s machine. GETTING STARTED 7 Opening a Saved Project from the File Menu Saved Projects can also be opened while in a current session. Navigate to the File menu and select “Open” or “Open Recent” from the drop-down list. A save prompt will appear to save any changes to the current session. Saved projects can also be opened from the “Recent” list on the launch window. GETTING STARTED 8 GETTING STARTED INTERFACE & NAVIGATION Interface RFMaster’s simplified interface and streamlined workflow provides users with the controls and features to build and design their projects efficiently. 1-Menu Bar 5-Workspace 9-Workspace Navigation 2-Mode Bar 6-Layers Pane 10- Compass 3-Sub Mode Bar 7-Object Inspector 4-Informaiton Pane 8-Scenario Tabs GETTING STARTED 9 Navigation Menu Bar The menu bar provides access to the handling of files, editing, quick modeling actions and resources. File Menu The File menu allows users to start a new project, open a previously created project, save their project and exit the program. Edit Menu The Edit menu allows users to revert to a previous state or advance to a more recent state, cut-copy-paste and delete items on the workspace and the ability to select all items on the workspace. GETTING STARTED 10 Modeling Menu The Modeling menu will provide quick access to modeling controls. Users can run the modeling for study zones and MPE markers individually or both together. Help Menu The Help menu provides access to application resources, an ability to check for updates and information about the current version installed. GETTING STARTED 11 Checking for Updates Users can check for new updates by clicking “Check for Updates...” If an update is available a window will appear showing the available version along with the new features contained in the update. If an update is not available a window will appear indicating there are no updates available. GETTING STARTED 12 Mode Bar The mode bar is designed to support a workflow process from left to right as users progress through their project. The mode bar consists of the following options: Project Mode Within project mode users can import site information and scenario specific information. Site Plan Mode This mode supports the building of the site plans with the use of images, 3D shapes and object templates Workspace Mode Supports the workspace options and applying rulers to the project RF Design Mode Provides users with the tools to select and enter antenna data as well as manage equipment and RF templates Photos Mode Supports the photo documentation process for site compliance Survey Mode Supports the survey data collection process for on site visits Modeling Mode Provides tools to run an analysis, select different study zones, change MPE threshold limits, model selection and locate MPE values Mitigation Mode Allows the user to create a mitigation design using barriers, indicative marking, RF alerting signs and denoting fall protection areas. Reports Mode Supports the exporting of the analysis results, template management and report generation. GETTING STARTED 13 Sub Mode Bar The sub mode bar displays all the tools and features found under each mode. Organized on the right side of the application, a sub mode button can be clicked to gain access to those specific set of features. Information Pane Provides access to the sub mode tools and features in one centralized area. Information panes can be resized and collapsed to view more of the workspace. GETTING STARTED 14 Workspace The workspace is designed to help users easily create their project. This is the area where the site plan(s) is built, antennas are added, modeling is performed, and the mitigation items are applied. As the project is being built users can pan, orbit and zoom in and out around the workspace. Pan the Workspace To pan, click and hold the left mouse button on an open area of the workspace and drag the cursor in the desired direction. If panning while over an image, template/object or shape hold the Alt key click and hold the left mouse button then drag the cursor in the desired direction. Alt GETTING STARTED 15 Zooming Zooming in and out will allow users to review their project from a neighborhood, site, or sector related perspective. To zoom in, spin the mouse wheel forward. To zoom out spin the mouse wheel backward. The workspace will zoom in/out from the middle of the current workspace view. GETTING STARTED 16 Tilt & Orbit Users can tilt and orbit the workspace to view their project from different angles, sides and perspectives. To tilt and orbit hold the Ctrl key then click and hold the left mouse button on an open area of the workspace and drag the cursor in the desired direction. Ctrl If tilting or orbiting while over an image, template/object or shape hold the Ctrl and Alt keys then click and hold the left mouse button and drag the cursor in the desired direction. Ctrl Alt GETTING STARTED 17 Layers Pane The layers pane lists all the images and objects added to the workspace. Users can select, lock, hide or delete from this pane. To display the layers pane, click the layers icon on the workspace. Selection & Unselect To select an object or image click the desired item on the list. Objects and shapes will highlight orange while images and signs will be denoted as selected. Objects can also be made unselectable on the workspace. When enabled those objects can be navigated over without using the alt option. Lock/Unlock To lock an object or image to the workspace click the checkbox under the lock icon column. When checked this will prevent the item from being moved manually on the workspace. To unlock click the checkbox so it is unchecked. The object or image will now be able to be moved manually. Hide/Show To hide an object or image from the workspace click the checkbox under the eye icon column. When checked this will remove the object or image from the workspace. To unhide click the checkbox so it is unchecked. The object or image will now be visible on the workspace. Delete To delete an object or image from the workspace click the trashcan icon. A prompt will appear confirming the decision to delete. Click “Yes” to complete the deletion. Click “No” to cancel the deletion. GETTING STARTED 18 Object Inspector When an object or shape is selected on the workspace it will highlight orange while images and signs will be denoted as selected. When this process takes place the Object Inspector window will appear. This window will allow you to adjust the parameters of the selected item. Each object will have its own set of specific parameters. GETTING STARTED 19 Object Inspector Functionality 1.0 To close the Object Inspector, click the “X” or an open area of the workspace. 2.0 The item’s name can be updated by typing new information into the field. This will be reflected in the layers pane as well. 3.0 The individual object or image can be locked, hidden or unselect able by clicking the desired icon. When engaged the icon will turn blue. 4.0 This section will change the physical properties of the selected item. Values can be entered manually, or by using the mouse wheel. When the cursor is in the desired field the user can scroll forward or backward to increase or decrease the value. 5.0 Under the Fill option a color can be set by clicking the Color Picker. Within the Fill window a color can be selected manually or by entering a RGB or HEX code. The Opacity can be changed by moving the slider left to right. GETTING STARTED 20 Image and Object Selection Images and objects can be selected by clicking on the desired item on the workspace. Once the item has been selected the user can move the it to a new location, copy and paste it or delete. Users can select multiple objects by holding the control key while they click the desired objects. Once multiple items have been selected the user can move them to a new location, copy and paste them or delete them. Ctrl GETTING STARTED 21 Right Click Actions Right clicking on the workspace will display a list of actions that can be performed. Users can complete the following actions: Add Text When selected use the placement guidelines to determine the area you wish to add text then click the workspace Undo To restore your work to the state it was in before your last action, for example, adding text, deleting text, replacing text, and so on, click the Undo button. . Redo To restore your work to the state it was in before an Undo, for example, adding text, deleting text, replacing text, and so on, click the Redo button. Cut To cut items that you want to either delete or move to a new location, click to highlight the item and click the Cut button. Copy To copy items so that you can place it in an additional location without adding manually, highlight the item and click the Copy button. Paste To paste cut or copied items to a new location, place your cursor where you want it to place it and click the Paste button. GETTING STARTED 22 Workspace Navigation Buttons The workspace buttons can be used to recenter the workspace, open and close the layers panel and display the legend. Recenter This button will return the user to the center of the workspace, facing North, from any position on the workspace. Layers This button will open and close the layers panel Workspace Navigation Buttons This button adds a legend to the workspace. The legend window can be moved to different locations on the workspace manually GETTING STARTED 23 GETTING STARTED CREATING ADDITIONAL SCENARIOS Users can create multiple configurations representing technology and capacity evolution as well as what-if scenario studies. To add another scenario, click the “Plus” button to generate a new tab. A ”New Scenario” window will appear where the Scenario Name can be entered, and the user can select which project to Clone from. Select which items you wish to clone over to the new scenario. GETTING STARTED 24 SECTION 02 PROJECT MODE 26 INTRODUCTION 27 SITE INFORMATION 31 SCENARIO INFORMATION PROJECT MODE 25 PROJECT MODE INTRODUCTION RFMaster supports the import of site and scenario level information for each project. CSV files can be designed and loaded into the application to be stored with the project. If this information has been populated, it will be used during the report generation process found in Section 8. PROJECT MODE 26 PROJECT MODE SITE INFORMATION Site level information is an example of text data that can be imported and input into the application for later use in report generation process. The application fields containing this information are assigned TAG’s having the following properties: • • • Capitalized Encapsulated with “#” No spaces TAG’s consist of the following elements: • TAG ID – Unique identifier that links application data to report template location • Content – Information that will replace the TAG ID. This information will display within the information pane. • Title – Title of field • Group – Category of data (e.g. Site Information, Client, Additional Information, etc) • Order – Appearance sequence under Group • Format – Field format code: 1 – Short text (256 characters) 2 – Long text (CLOB) 2 – Integer 3 – Float 4 – Date To build a drop-down list use curly brackets under the format column to separate the different options to be selected in the information pane. Example: {type information in here}{another set of information} PROJECT MODE 27 The following example can be used to create a site information .csv import file: PROJECT MODE 28 Importing Site Information To add site information, click the “Site Info” sub mode button to display the information pane. Click the “Import” button and locate the file on local machine with the File Explorer window. PROJECT MODE 29 The information within the csv will populate the information pane. From here users can edit the information within each field. Tags added during the csv creation can be made visible via the “Show Tags” checkbox. PROJECT MODE 30 PROJECT MODE SCENARIO INFORMATION Scenario level information is an example of text data that can be imported and input into the application for later use in report generation process. The application fields containing this information are assigned TAG’s having the following properties: • • • Capitalized Encapsulated with “#” No spaces TAG’s consist of the following elements: • TAG ID – Unique identifier that links application data to report template location • Content – Information that will replace the TAG ID. This information will display within the information pane. • Title – Title of field • Group – Category of data (e.g. Job Information, Analysis, Survey, etc) • Order – Appearance sequence under Group • Format – Field format code: 1 – Short text (256 characters) 2 – Long text (CLOB) 2 – Integer 3 – Float 4 – Date To build a drop-down list use curly brackets under the format column to separate the different options to be selected in the information pane. Example: {type information in here}{another set of information} PROJECT MODE 31 The following example can be used to create a scenario information .csv import file: PROJECT MODE 32 Importing Scenario Information To add site information, click the “Scenarios” sub mode button to display the information pane. Click the “Import” button and locate the file on local machine with the File Explorer window. PROJECT MODE 33 The information within the csv will populate the information pane. From here users can edit the information within each field. Tags added during the csv creation can be made visible via the “Show Tags” checkbox. PROJECT MODE 34 SECTION 03 SITE PLAN MODE 36 INTRODUCTION 37 3D OBJECTS 41 IMAGE FILE IMPORT 47 PDF FILE IMPORT 54 SATELLITE IMPORT 57 SHAPES SITE PLAN MODE 35 SITE PLAN MODE INTRODUCTION RFMaster provides tools and features to support the creation of diverse site plans for all project types through the import of pdf files, image files, satellite imagery, as well as adding shapes and 3D objects. SITE PLAN MODE 36 SITE PLAN MODE 3D OBJECTS Users will have access to a robust 3D object library containing an assorted set of elements to support the site plan building process. To access the library, click the “3D Objects” sub mode button to display all the available objects within the information pane. To add an object to the workspace, click and drag the desired object from the information pane onto the workspace. SITE PLAN MODE 37 Once the object has been added to the workspace, the Object Inspector can be used to update the available parameters. Objects can be moved to a new location on the workspace by clicking and dragging the selected object to a new area. SITE PLAN MODE 38 New objects being added to the workspace can be placed at the height of an existing shape or object. To place a new object on top of an existing shape or object, click and drag the new object so the cursor or placement location is above the desired shape or object. Once the mouse it let go it will automatically take on the new elevation. SITE PLAN MODE 39 3D Objects can be filtered by type using the “Group” drop down list. The search feature can also be used to locate a specific object. Objects marked with a timer will take greater then 5 seconds to load and appear on the workspace. SITE PLAN MODE 40 SITE PLAN MODE IMAGE FILE IMPORT Image files can be imported to support project needs or the site plan building process. To import an image, click the “Images” sub mode button to open a file explorer window. Navigate to the image file on the local machine and click “Open”. The Scale Image window will appear with options to crop the image, erase unwanted items, set the scale of the image being added to the workspace and set the direction of the image. SITE PLAN MODE 41 The Crop tool can be used to remove an area of an image surrounding the selection. To utilize click the crop button then click and drag out a selected area. Cropped areas can be undone by right clicking in the window and choosing “Undo”. SITE PLAN MODE 42 The Eraser tool can be used as a graphic editor to remove unwanted items on the imported image. To edit click the drop down and choose an eraser size then click and drag the eraser over the areas to be removed. Erased areas can be undone by right clicking in the window and choosing “Undo”. SITE PLAN MODE 43 To scale the image, click the Set Scale box, then click and drag out the blue scale line to a known distance for the image. Next enter the value for the drawn scale line in feet or meters. If this field is left blank and the “Add to Workspace” button is clicked the field will highlight red and not place the image onto the workspace. To choose a different area to scale the image, simply click in the window the new starting point and drag out the scale line. SITE PLAN MODE 44 To set the compass, click the Set Compass box, then click and drag out the north direction To choose a different North orientation, simply click in the window the new starting point and drag out the compass line. Once the scale and compass have been set click “Add to Workspace” to add the image to the workspace. SITE PLAN MODE 45 The image will be added to the scaled workspace facing the orientation that was defined. The Object Inspector can be used to update the available parameters. SITE PLAN MODE 46 SITE PLAN MODE PDF FILE IMPORT PDF files can be imported to support project needs or the site plan building process. To import a PDF file, click the “PDFs” sub mode button to open a file explorer window. Navigate to the image file on the local machine and click “Open”. The Scale Image window will appear with options to select a page, crop the image, erase unwanted items, set the scale of the image being added to the workspace and set the direction of the image. SITE PLAN MODE 47 The page navigation allows users to move through the document to locate the image they wish to import. The toolbar includes the Next Page and Previous Page buttons. Users can also type a page number in the interactive text box next to the buttons and press Enter to go directly to that page. SITE PLAN MODE 48 The Crop tool can be used to remove an area of an image surrounding the selection. To utilize click the crop button then click and drag out a selected area. Cropped areas can be undone by right clicking in the window and choosing “Undo”. SITE PLAN MODE 49 The Eraser tool can be used as a graphic editor to remove unwanted items on the imported image. To edit click the drop down and choose an eraser size then click and drag the eraser over the areas to be removed. Erased areas can be undone by right clicking in the window and choosing “Undo”. SITE PLAN MODE 50 To scale the image, click the Set Scale box, then click and drag out the blue scale line to a known distance for the image. Next enter the value for the drawn scale line in feet or meters. If this field is left blank and the “Add to Workspace” button is clicked the field will highlight red and not place the image onto the workspace. To choose a different area to scale the image, simply click in the window the new starting point and drag out the scale line. SITE PLAN MODE 51 To set the compass, click the Set Compass box, then click and drag out the north direction To choose a different North orientation, simply click in the window the new starting point and drag out the compass line. Once the scale and compass have been set click “Add to Workspace” to add the image to the workspace. SITE PLAN MODE 52 The image will be added to the scaled workspace facing the orientation that was defined. The Object Inspector can be used to update the available parameters. SITE PLAN MODE 53 SITE PLAN MODE SATELLITE IMPORT Satellite images can be imported to support project needs or the site plan building process. To import a satellite image, click the “Satellite” sub mode button to open the Map Import window. SITE PLAN MODE 54 Next enter the desired address or latitude and longitude values then click “View Map”. Once the satellite image appears users can click anywhere in the window to re-center the map to that point. The plus and minus buttons can be used to zoom in and zoom out of the map. As the mouse cursor is hovered over the satellite image, the latitude and longitude values are reported in the top left corner. Once the desired location and parameters are set click “Add to Workspace” to add the image to the workspace. The scale and orientation will automatically apply when added. SITE PLAN MODE 55 SITE PLAN MODE 56 SITE PLAN MODE SHAPES Users will have access to a shapes library containing an assorted of shapes to support the site plan building process. To access the shapes tool, Click the “Shapes” sub mode button to display all the available shapes within the information pane. To add a shape to the workspace, click the desired shape and hover the cursor over the workspace to automatically display the placement guidelines. SITE PLAN MODE 57 Click the workspace to mark the start location and drag the cursor to begin adding the selected shape. When adding a polygon shape to the workspace begin by clicking around the outside of the desired area. When ready to complete the polygon right click the mouse to finish. SITE PLAN MODE 58 Once the shape has been added to the workspace, the Object Inspector can be used to update the available parameters. Shapes can be moved to a new location on the workspace by clicking and dragging the selected shape to a new area. SITE PLAN MODE 59 New shapes being added to the workspace can be placed at the height of an existing shape or object. To place a new shape on top of an existing shape or object, begin by clicking and dragging out the new shape above the desired shape or object. The new shape will automatically take on the new elevation. SITE PLAN MODE 60 SECTION 04 WORKSPACE MODE 62 INTRODUCTION 63 WORKSPACE OPTIONS 64 RULER TOOL WORKSPACE MODE 61 WORKSPACE MODE INTRODUCTION RFMaster contains a fixed scale workspace. Images are set to a user defined scale then added to the fixed workspace. When objects are initially added to the workspace, they assume a default height. This value can be updated later via the Object Inspector. The compass is set to North and continues to display where North is located as the user pans and rotates the workspace. WORKSPACE MODE 62 WORKSPACE MODE OPTIONS The Options sub mode provides users with the ability to define settings for the workspace. The grid can be turned on and off by clicking the Enable checkbox. The snap to grid size can also be adjusted from 0.25 feet up to 10 foot increments. The compass rose can be made visible on the workspace by clicking the Compass Enable checkbox. WORKSPACE MODE 63 WORKSPACE MODE RULER Rulers added to the workspace via the Shapes sub mode will display within a table under the Rulers sub mode. The table will report the ruler's name, measured distance and the angle in degrees at which it was drawn onto the workspace. Rulers can also be turned on/off via the table. WORKSPACE MODE 64 SECTION 05 RF DESIGN MODE 66 INTRODUCTION 68 TABLE OF SOURCES 76 CARRIER MANAGEMENT 77 EQUIPMENT MANAGEMENT 83 RF TEMPLATE MANAGEMENT RF DESIGN MODE 65 RF DESIGN MODE INTRODUCTION The RFMaster application was developed to support RF hazard analysis for wireless installations. This process includes the characterization of existing and proposed RF source configurations in order to model exposure conditions in the environment. This section presents the methods to be used to create and manage RF source data. RF DESIGN MODE 66 Scenarios RFMaster had been designed to enable the analysis of numerous RF configurations at a single site. This supports what-if analysis, alternative mitigation schemes and technological evolution. Each configuration is associated with a scenario that can be used for analysis, mitigation and report activities. A configuration is depicted in the Table of Sources which is a listing of relevant RF parameters for signals supported by antennas. The RF transmitter feed path consists of a transmitter, antenna and connecting equipment. The diagram below shows the relationships between these parameters. Antenna Gain in dBd Power In in dBm = TPO - LL Effective Radiated Power (ERP) in dBm = Power In + Antenna Gain Transmitter Line Loss (LL) in dB Transmitter Power Output (TPO) in dBm RF DESIGN MODE 67 RF DESIGN MODE TABLE OF SOURCES The Table of Sources form is launched from the RF Design sub mode. RF emitters or sources are organized by row in a grid format. The fields and their availability in the ToS present data typically included in antenna inventory listings in assessment reports. Several design aspects of the ToS support the efficient and rapid modeling of base station installations. Selection tools based on search criteria are available for antenna and transmitter records. Additionally, parameter changes that affect signal power levels with the transmission path are automatically propagated. Entire RF emitter records may be created and recalled for common configurations including beamforming antennas with integrated radios. The ToS is an active window that can be updated live while still interacting with the application. Users utilizing multi-monitor set ups will be able to place the window on one screen while maintaining the application on another screen. RF DESIGN MODE 68 Physical Properties RF exposure assessments are performed in the areas surrounding antennas. The antennas used to support RF sources have physical attributes related to operator and positioning within the Workspace. This section contains combo boxes which the user can click to activate a drop-down list or simply type the desired information into the field. The column width can be resized by placing the cursor between two columns. When the double arrow appears click and drag to the desired width. Table 1: Physical Properties Field Enable Antenna # Description Determines whether the emitter is included in the prediction Workspace antenna objects are identified by number. Emitters assigned to an antenna are indexed to provide order of Emit # appearance Carrier Name of operating entity Region Area of operation Sector Antenna array designation Az (deg) Azimuth of orientation of antenna Rad Ctr (ft) Position along Z axis from Workspace origin Mech Tilt Mechanical tilt of antenna RF DESIGN MODE 69 Antenna Properties The antenna model may be selected for each RF emitter. The selection process supports cascaded filters by Manufacturer, Model and Band. Antenna patterns may be viewed as needed. This section contains combo boxes which the user can click to activate a drop-down list or simply type the desired information into the field. The column width can be resized by placing the cursor between two columns. When the double arrow appears click and drag to the desired width. Table 2: Antenna Properties Field Manufacturer Antenna Model Band (MHz) Electrical Downtilt Type Gain (dBd) Gain (dBi) HWB (deg) VBW (deg) Length Width Depth Description Antenna manufacturer name Antenna model name Frequency of operation Electrical tilt in vertical pattern Form factor of antenna Maximum antenna gain Maximum antenna gain Horizontal pattern beamwidth Vertical pattern beamwidth Antenna physical length Antenna physical width Antenna physical depth Adding an RF Emitter to the Workspace An antenna object specific to the selected antenna type will automatically appear on the workspace when the physical properties of antenna number, Azimuth, Rad Ctr are entered along with the Antenna properties of manufacturer, model, frequency, electrical downtilt are populated. The antenna object will take on the physical dimensions noted in the ToS. RF DESIGN MODE 70 Transmitter Properties The transmitter model may be selected for each RF emitter. The selection process supports sort filters by Carrier, Region, Band and Technology. This section contains combo boxes which the user can click to activate a drop-down list or simply type the desired information into the field. The column width can be resized by placing the cursor between two columns. When the double arrow appears click and drag to the desired width. Table 3: Transmitter Properties Field Tx Description Band Code Technology Utilization Paths TPO (W) TPO (dBm) Attenuation (dB) Description Radio/RRU model description Band number Airlink protocol Duty cycle of transmit signal Channel count or MIMO path count Transmitter Output Power Transmitter Output Power Transmitter Output Power reduction RF DESIGN MODE 71 Cable Properties Line loss may be entered manually or calculated based on the line type and length provided. This section contains combo boxes which the user can click to activate a drop-down list or simply type the desired information into the field. The column width can be resized by placing the cursor between two columns. When the double arrow appears click and drag to the desired width. Table 4: Cable Properties Field Line Type Line Length Line Loss (dB) Other Loss (dB) Description Cable model description Overall length of cable Calculated loss based on type of cable, frequency and length Losses associated with splitters or other feed path elements RF DESIGN MODE 72 Emissions ERP and EIRP is calculated based on transmitter power and feed path gains and losses. Alternatively, it can be entered directly. Table 5: Emission Properties Field Power In (W) Power In (dBm) ERP (W) ERP (dBm) EIRP (W) EIRP (dBm) Description Composite power into the antenna port Composite power into the antenna port Composite Effective Radiated Power relative to a dipole antenna Composite Effective Radiated Power relative to a dipole antenna Composite Effective Radiated Power relative to an isotopic antenna Composite Effective Radiated Power relative to an isotopic antenna RF DESIGN MODE 73 Adding an RF Emitter to the Table To add an emitter to the table, click the “Add Row” button to create a new row. The user can begin populating the antenna information. Adding an RF Emitter to the Workspace An antenna object specific to the selected antenna type will automatically appear on the workspace when the physical properties of antenna number, Azimuth, Rad Ctr are entered along with the Antenna properties of manufacturer, model, frequency, electrical downtilt are populated. The antenna object will take on the physical dimensions noted in the ToS. Update Sort Clicking the “Update Sort” button, arranges the RF emitters list in order by antenna and emitter numbers. Duplicate Rows A single row or multiple rows can be duplicated within the ToS. The far-left column can be used to check the desired rows the users wants to duplicate. Once the rows have been checked click “Duplicate Rows” to complete the process. This is helpful when data repeats in multiple sectors. Editing an RF Emitter Any field in the emitter record may be modified. Information only fields are provided to characterize the emitter. Some fields serve as criteria for selection functions. Calculated fields are updated whenever contributing data is changed. Import & Export Templates One or more emitters may be saved as a RF Template to be recalled in future scenarios. Copy to Clipboard To export the Table of Sources information, click the “Copy to Clipboard” button. The information will be saved to the user's clipboard and can be pasted in a Word doc or Excel Sheet. RF DESIGN MODE 74 Deleting Rows To delete an emitter, click the “checkbox” to designate the desired rows. From here click the “Delete Selected” button to remove the selected rows. Navigation The Table of Sources contains combo boxes where a user can either type or use the drop down to select information. The Tab and cursor keys can also be used to move between columns and cells. Import ToS Data can be imported via a csv file RF DESIGN MODE 75 RF DESIGN MODE CARRIER MANAGEMENT RFMaster allows users to identify and assign a specific color to the antennas on the workspace through the Carrier Mgmt sub mode. When an antenna is assigned a carrier within the ToS the antenna object on the workspace will take on the defined color set in this table. This helps with differentiating the client antennas under study versus the other operating RF sources on site. In the Color column the square can be clicked to display the fill color picker. Once the color has been selected it will appear in the square. Within the Carrier Name column, the desired operator name can be entered. RF DESIGN MODE 76 RF DESIGN MODE EQUIPMENT MANAGEMENT RFMaster supports the creation and maintenance of transmitter records to be used in creating RF emitters. As operators often use the same equipment within a region, these records may be associated with these assignments. This approach accelerates the Table of Sources creation process by limiting the selection process to relevant equipment. RF DESIGN MODE 77 Transmitter records may be imported from a csv file created and maintained by the user. This file resides in the My Documents directory after the install process. This file contains the fields listed in Table 1. Table 1: Transmitter Record Format Field Description Carrier Region Make Model Technology Frequency Band Paths TPO TPO units Loss Description Description of transmitter Operator Operator Market Manufacturer of transmitter Model name of transmitter Wireless technology type Operating frequency of radio (MHz) Operating band designator MIMO paths or channel count Transmitter output power per path Dimensional units (dBm, Watts) Extra path loss in dB RF DESIGN MODE 78 Importing Transmitter Information To import the equipment csv file, Click the “Import” button and locate the file on local machine with the File Explorer window. After clicking “OK” the new information will appear in the table. The transmitter information will now appear in the Transmitter Properties section of the ToS and will filter based on the selected carrier and region. If an antenna has been populated and the transmitter equipment is selected the information from the table will populate the fields and automatically calculate the power. RF DESIGN MODE 79 Exporting Transmitter Information To export the data as a csv file, Click the “Export” button to open a File Explorer window to save the file in a desired location. The transmitter information can be edited within the csv then reimported using the import steps. RF DESIGN MODE 80 Path Loss The RF emitter feed path losses may be characterized by cable or other loss. Cable loss parameters may be imported from a csv file created and maintained by the user. This file resides in the My Documents directory after the install process and contains the fields listed in Table 2. Table 2: Cable Loss Record Format Field Make Model Frequency Loss per Reference Distance Type Loss Reference Distance Loss Reference Distance units Description Manufacturer Model name Operating frequency (MHz) Attenuation at frequency Form factor of equipment Reference distance Dimensional units The RF emitter may include the use of cable where type and length are specified. Based on the operating frequency, the overall loss is calculated. This loss may be manually entered without specifying the cable type or length. Similarly, loss associated with equipment in the feed path may be provided as “Other Loss”. RF DESIGN MODE 81 Importing Cable Information To import the cable csv file, Click the “Import” button and locate the file on local machine with the File Explorer window. After clicking “OK” the new information will appear in the table. The cable information will now appear in the Cable Properties section of the ToS. When the line type is selected, and the line length is entered the loss will be calculated. RF DESIGN MODE 82 RF DESIGN MODE RF TEMPLATES One or more emitters may be saved as RF Templates to be recalled in future scenarios. This is useful for the following: • • • • Standard new cell configurations Carrier add configuration Beamforming antennas with integrated radios Co-located installation representations RF Templates may be imported from csv files. These records are added directly to the ToS and data validation is performed to ensure antenna records and calculated fields are available and accurate. Selected RF emitters in the ToS may be saved as an RF Template with unique name for future use. Existing RF Templates may be selected and inserted into the ToS. RF DESIGN MODE 83 Importing a RF Template To import a template, click the “Import Template” button in the Table of Sources. All templates that are available will appear in the drop-down list. Once the desired template has been selected it will automatically add to the Table of Sources. If data already exists within the table, the information in the template will append underneath the current data. RF DESIGN MODE 84 Saving a RF Template Selected RF emitters in the ToS may be saved as an RF Template with a unique name for future use. To save a template first click the “Export Template” button. A window will appear where the template can be given a name. After clicking “OK” the template will be available in the Import Template drop down list and appear in the RF Mgmt sub mode. RF DESIGN MODE 85 RF Template Management Templates created in the Table of Sources can be managed under the RF Mgmt sub mode. Users can review a list of created RF templates and delete them. Created files are stored locally and can be found under the following file path: C:\Users\Name\AppData\Roaming\RFMaster\ToS The .ToS files can be shared and opened under the Import Template > Other File... option within the Table of Sources. RF DESIGN MODE 86 SECTION 06 MODELING MODE 88 INTRODUCTION 89 STUDY ZONES & MODELING 99 MPE REVIEW 103 MPE THRESHOLDS 106 EXPOSURE PROFILES MODELING MODE 87 MODELING MODE INTRODUCTION The RFMaster application was developed to support RF hazard analysis for wireless installations characterized in the Workspace and Table of Sources. Exposure calculations are performed at specified regions of interest (Study Zones). These results are compared with limits specified in available exposure standards. This user guide presents the methods to perform predictive studies. MODELING MODE 88 MODELING MODE STUDY ZONES & MODELING A Study Zone is a region of interest where predictive exposure modeling is to be performed. These regions are specified by the user in the Workspace as objects which are created using tools similar to Site Plan Shapes. Several types of Study Zones are available. MODELING MODE 89 Surface Study Zone A Surface is a planar area at an elevation that a person could occupy. Predictive exposure results are depicted at the middle of the 6-foot vertical profile associated with whole-body exposure. 3D Study Zone Predictive exposure is depicted in a 3D region. At a point within this region, predictive exposure results are depicted at the middle of the 6-foot vertical profile associated with whole-body exposure. 3D depictions represent multiple surface predictions, throughout the vertical dimension of the 3D area. MODELING MODE 90 Floor Study Zone A Floor is a planar area representative of a walking surface. Predictive exposure results are depicted at the base of the 6-foot vertical profile that a person could occupy while standing on the Floor. To create an exposure study, the following conditions must be available: • • RF emitters in the TOS are enabled and are present on the Workspace Exposure Profiles have been specified for Study Zones MODELING MODE 91 Adding a Surface Study Zone to the Workspace To add a surface study zone, click the “Rectangular Surface” button. Next hover over the workspace to display the placement guidelines, then click and drag the cursor to add a surface study zone to cover the desired area. MODELING MODE 92 Adding a 3D Study Zone to the Workspace To add a 3D study zone, click the “Rectangular 3D Surface” button. Next hover over the workspace to display the placement guidelines, then click and drag the cursor to add a surface study zone to cover the desired area. MODELING MODE 93 Adding a Floor Study Zone to the Workspace To add a floor study zone, click the “Rectangular Floor” button. Next hover over the workspace to display the placement guidelines, then click and drag the cursor to add a floor study zone to cover the desired area. MODELING MODE 94 Study zones being added to the workspace can be placed at the height of an existing shape or object. To place a study zone on top of an existing shape or object, click the desired study zone type and move the cursor above the desired shape or object. The placement guidelines will automatically take on the new elevation to begin clicking and dragging out the study zone. Once the study zone has been added to the workspace, the Object Inspector can be used to update the available parameters. All study zones added to the workspace save with the project files. MODELING MODE 95 Assigning an Exposure Profile to a Study Zone Within the Object Inspector an available exposure profile created under the Exposure sub mode can be assigned to an individual study zone. Study zones can be copied and pasted on the workspace, and multiple study zones can be placed at the same elevation with different exposure profiles assigned to each of them individually. The default exposure profiles for Surface study zones (example: FCC Cylindrical GP Surface) can also be used for Floor study zones. MODELING MODE 96 Modeling Single or Multiple Study Zones When all the desired study zones have been added to the workspace and assigned an exposure profile the “Run Analysis” button in the information pane can be clicked to generate the results for all study zones on the workspace. Users can also use the Modeling menu to generate the analysis. To run the analysis from the Modeling menu, click “Model Study Zones”. MODELING MODE 97 The analysis results can be toggled on and off via the Layers Panel. MODELING MODE 98 MODELING MODE MPE REVIEW The results of exposure studies may be inspected via the MPE Review tools. Markers are indicators that can be associated with selected Study Zones. MODELING MODE 99 Max MPE Reporting After the modeling has been completed each study zone will automatically report the max MPE value within the table under the MPE Review sub mode. Study zones can be renamed via the object inspector to help organize. MODELING MODE 100 Adding MPE Markers An MPE Marker can be added to the workspace to capture the MPE value at that specific point. This information is reported within the table under the MPE Review sub mode. To add a marker, click the “Add MPE Marker” button and begin to hover over the workspace. The placement guidelines will automatically appear, and a marker can be added by clicking anywhere the cursor is located on the workspace. Once the marker has been added to the workspace, the Object Inspector can be used to assign an exposure profile to the marker. MODELING MODE 101 MPE Markers added to the workspace after the analysis has been run can click the “Run MPE Analysis” to display the results of the new pin. The Modeling menu can also be used to run the MPE analysis. The marker can be moved to a new location on the workspace and the value will automatically be updated in the table. Markers can also be added under the Study Zone sub mode. MODELING MODE 102 MODELING MODE THRESHOLDS Predictive results are displayed within ranges. Selected colors may be ascribed to specified threshold ranges. Threshold schemes may be created and managed under the Thresholds sub mode. MODELING MODE 103 Creating a Threshold To create a new threshold profile, click the “+ Create Profile” button. Next give the new threshold a name. MODELING MODE 104 The value ranges can be typed into the field. The color scheme can be selected by clicking the grey box to open the color picker window. Once complete, the new threshold will be available in the “Threshold” drop downlist under the Exposure sub mode. To remove a threshold, click the trashcan icon to remove it from the list. MODELING MODE 105 MODELING MODE EXPOSURE PROFILES Predictive exposure studies involve computational methodologies, spatial averaging techniques and reflection considerations. These results are displayed in terms of limits associated with exposure standards. The combination of these parameters are selected to define an Exposure Profile. Predictive Model Methods for determining exposures in terms of power density are specified in published guideline documents. Various antenna types require specific treatment. The antenna records available in RFMaster include parameters required for model selection and computation. Available guidelines are listed below. Federal Communications Commission Office of Engineering and Technology, Bulletin 65, Evaluating Compliance with FCC Guidelines for Human Exposure to Radiofrequency Electromagnetic Fields, (OET-65) Determination of RF Field Strength and SAR in the Vicinity of Radiocommunication Base Stations for the Purpose of Evaluating Human Exposure, Edition 3.0, 2022 (IEC 62232). Standard Exposure standards set the limits that define hazardous and non-hazardous conditions. Limits are a function of frequency, exposure area and duration of exposure. Limits are specified in terms of Specific Absorption Rate (SAR), electric field, magnetic field and power density. Available standards are listed below: U.S. 47 CFR 1.1310: Radiofrequency radiation exposure limits Limits of Human Exposure to Radiofrequency Electromagnetic Energy in the Frequency Range from 3 kHz to 300 GHz, (Safety Code 6), Govt of Canada, 2015 Guidelines for Limiting Exposure to Electromagnetic Fields (100 kHz to 300 GHz), ICNIRP, 2020 IEEE Standard for Safety Levels with Respect to Human Exposure to Electric, Magnetic, and Electromagnetic Fields, 0 Hz to 300 GHz, IEEE Std C95.1-2019 MODELING MODE 106 Exposure Profile cont. Units Limits are specified in terms of Specific Absorption Rate (SAR), electric field, magnetic field and power density. Exposure Area Based on the nature of the biological effect, the limits may specify an area related to whole-body or local exposures. Spatial peak exposures may be calculated for a single point in space. Larger areas may require the calculation and spatial averaging of exposures at numerous points within the space. Thresholds Predictive results are displayed within ranges. Selected colors may be ascribed to specified threshold ranges. Reflection Evaluation guidelines may recommend consideration of reflections to produce worst case exposure assessments. Resolution Predictive results are computed and displayed at spatial intervals within the Study Zone. This resolution may be specified to set the level of detail and computational time requirements. MODELING MODE 107 Creating an Exposure Profile To create a new threshold profile, click the “+ Create Profile” button. Next give the new Exposure profile a name. MODELING MODE 108 Apply the desired settings for the profile. Once all the fields have been populated the profile will be available and can be assigned to a study zone under the Object Inspector. MODELING MODE 109 SECTION 7 MITIGATION MODE 111 INTRODUCTION 112 RF ALERTING SIGNAGE 116 BARRIER SYSTEMS MITIGATION MODE 110 MITIGATION MODE INTRODUCTION RFMaster allows for site compliance design using the placement of signs, barriers and other mitigation items on site. MITIGATION MODE 111 MITIGATION MODE RF ALERTING SIGNAGE Users will have access to an RF Signage library containing an assortment of signs to support the mitigation process. To access the library, click the “RF Signage” sub mode button to display all the available signs within the information pane. To add a sign to the workspace, click and drag the desired sign from the information pane onto the workspace. MITIGATION MODE 112 Once the sign has been added to the workspace, the Object Inspector can be used to update the available parameters. Signs are added to the workspace at noted defined height, this can be updated via the OI to increase the size. Signs can be moved to a new location on the workspace by clicking and dragging the selected sign to a new area. MITIGATION MODE 113 Signs being added to the workspace can be placed at the height of an existing shape or object. To place a sign on top of an existing shape or object, click and drag the new sign so the cursor or placement location is above the desired shape or object. Once the mouse is let go it will automatically take on the new elevation. MITIGATION MODE 114 Signs can be filtered by category using the “Group” drop down list. The search feature can also be used to locate a specific object. MITIGATION MODE 115 MITIGATION MODE BARRIER SYSTEMS Users will have access to a robust barrier object library containing an assorted set of elements to support the mitigation building process. To access the library, click the “Barriers” sub mode button to display all the available objects within the information pane. To add an object to the workspace, click and drag the desired object from the information pane onto the workspace. MITIGATION MODE 116 Once the object has been added to the workspace, the Object Inspector can be used to update the available parameters. Objects can be moved to a new location on the workspace by clicking and dragging the selected object to a new area. MITIGATION MODE 117 New barrier objects being added to the workspace can be placed at the height of an existing shape or object. To place a new barrier object on top of an existing shape or object, click and drag the new barrier object so the cursor or placement location is above the desired shape or object. Once the mouse it let go it will automatically take on the new elevation. MITIGATION MODE 118 The search feature can also be used to locate a specific object. MITIGATION MODE 119 SECTION 8 REPORTS MODE 120 INTRODUCTION 120 VIEWS REPORTS MODE 120 REPORTS MODE VIEWS INTRODUCTION The RFMaster application was developed to support RF hazard analysis for wireless installations. The result of this process is a report that includes any number of scenario plots needed to support the conclusions and recommendations. The information depicted in these plots are based on user-defined parameters including camera position and layer control settings. Plot properties are available to support reporting requirements such as Titles and Captions. Views Management Through layer controls, the Workspace depicts the installation site, surrounding environment, antennas, predictive exposures and mitigation recommendations. These elements may be visualized from various angles and scale. To support the assessment, numerous plots may be required with information included or excluded using layer controls. These depictions may need to be analyzed numerous times during the assessment process as what-if scenarios are evaluated. The application is designed to support the creation and management of these Views to achieve the following objectives: 1) 2) 3) Minimize repeated navigation efforts Support consistent plot creation Serve to direct the insertion of plots into report templates REPORTS MODE 121 Creating a View To create a View, first position the Workspace at the desired viewing angle. Next use the Layer Controls to display the required information. When ready to lock in the view, click the “+ Add View” button. REPORTS MODE 122 The saved view can be updated with a new title and a caption. A View may be deleted by clicking the Trash Can icon. A confirmation prompt will be displayed. REPORTS MODE 123 Importing a Views Tag File The application allows Views to be created in alignment with a template via csv import. A plot created from a View may be designated for use in a Report template. Thus, Tag elements associated with image data must be provided: a. b. c. d. e. Title Caption Group Tag Id Order The following format can be used to create a Views Tag .csv import file. The TAG ID and Group category can be defined by the user. For example, PREDCARRIERONLY and Prediction do not need to be used as noted in the table. REPORTS MODE 124 To import a Views csv file, click the “Import Tags” button and locate the file on machine. Once the file has been located click OK to load the tags into the TAG ID drop down. To apply a tag to a View, click in the TAG ID field and use the drop down to assign the appropriate tag. The group will automatically populate once the tag has been selected. REPORTS MODE 125 Exporting Views List The set of plots created from the Views list can be exported to the local machine. To export the list, click the “Export All Plots” button. An explorer window will appear, and the images can be saved to a desired area. REPORTS MODE 126 SECTION 9 SUPPORT RESOURCES 128 USER MANUAL 128 SUPPORT CONTACT SUPPORT RESOURCES 127 Help Menu The Help Menu contains access to the latest RFMaster manual, Release Notes, Tutorial Video Library, and Support information. Click “Contents” to view the latest RM manual online for ease of access up to date information Click “Tutorial Video Library” to launch RoofMaster’s collection of videos breaking down each feature within the software. Users can also reach out for support by emailing RFMaster@waterfordconsultants.com SUPPORT RESOURCES 128 SECTION 10 FAQs & SYSTEM REQ. 130 FAQs 130 SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS 130 HOW TO... FAQs & SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS 129 System Recommendations 16GB RAM 1.8GHz or faster processor 10GB of available hard disk space for installation; additional free space may be needed for storage OS Minimum: Microsoft Windows 10 or 11 FAQs & SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS 130 SECTION 11 GLOSSARY GLOSSARY 131 GLOSSARY OF TERMS A Anchor: A fall arrest anchor icon can be added to the workspace Ant Caption: Represents antenna index number Ant Carrier: This field indicates which carrier the antenna belongs to Ant Name: Represents that particular antennas number Azimuth: This field represents where the antenna is pointing, measured in degrees B Barrier Stanchion: Represents the poles the barrier system is attached to. C Compass: Indicates the sites north orientation D Delete: Removes any antenna, text, anchor, measurement, barrier or sign from the work area Downtilt: This is the field where the mechanical down-tilt of the antenna is inputted E Edit: Opens up the antenna information fields as well as the sign information fields EiRP: Field where the effective isotropic radio power of the antenna is entered ERP: Field where the effective radio power of the antenna is entered www.waterfordconsultants.com GLOSSARY OF TERMS cont. F Freq: This field allows the antenna's frequency to be entered G Gain Field: Where the antenna's gain capability is recorded Grid: Transparent lines that can be selected and deselected on and off to show the site's scale. H Horizontal Beamwidth: Represents the beam width of the antenna across the horizontal plane I Installed Barriers: Adds a red color-coded barrier onto the work area with stanchion poles. The barrier can then be expanded to the appropriate length Invert: Allows the antenna's horizontal pattern or vertical pattern to flip-flop directions L Legend: Select a carrier legend and it will appear with the proper percentages measured in General Public Limits or Occupational Limits when the Output button has been clicked. Length Field: Allows the antenna's dimensional length to captured M Marker: Dropping a marker represents the origin of both the antennas and signs X and Y values Mask Tool: Used to indicate only the space wished to be represented in the modeling plots Measurement: This feature adds a numerical text value to the work area which can represent a meter reading position. The value increases each time a new area is clicked Multiple Measurements: This option opens a text box with multiple lines which become dynamic depending on how many lines are used www.waterfordconsultants.com GLOSSARY OF TERMS cont. O Object Inspector: Displays a data entry field for the antenna including position, frequency, power, azimuth and down tilt Orientation (North): Displays the antenna's azimuth based on a new North Orientation and is no longer facing true North Orientation (Screen): Displays the antenna's azimuth in relation to true North Output Selections: Displays the layer options, which can be selected and deselected, that are shown on the modeling plots Output Z: Creates a modeling plot in jpeg format in the results folder Output: This button displays and allows the modeling to be run P Paste Antenna Parameters Feature: Provides the ability to copy one antenna's data and paste the same information into another antenna Proposed Barriers: Adds an orange color coded barrier onto the work area with stanchion poles. The barrier can then be expanded to the appropriate length Ptrn Make: Displays the manufacturer name of the antenna Ptrn Model: Displays the model of the antenna R Re-index Local Library: Refreshes the antenna library allowing any new antennas added to RoofMaster™ to become available. Results Folder: Holds all of the modeling plots once they are outputted Rooftop Plot: Completes a modeling from a top-down aerial approach Run: Selecting this will run the modeling and recreate the site's environment Ruler Tool: Measures anything in the work area in pixels, feet as well as meters. www.waterfordconsultants.com GLOSSARY OF TERMS cont. S Select Pattern: Opens the antenna library and allows a specific pattern to be selected Set Scale Tool: This is used to set the scale of a drawing which gives the drawing an accurate spatial depiction Spatial Averaging: RF radiation measuring technique used to determine the amount of RF exposure at a particular spot by averaging the electric and magnetic fields Spatial Max: RF measuring technique used to determine the amount of RF exposure Swap: Switches the horizontal pattern with the vertical pattern and vice versa T Text: Allows word text to be written and placed on the work area Tower Plot: Completes a modeling from a profile elevation approach V Vertical Beam width: Represents the beam width of the antenna across the vertical plane W Workspace: The area where drawing lines, antennas, text, anchors, measurements, barriers or signs are placed and captured XYZ X Pos ft: Denotes the antennas horizontal position in feet X Pos: Moves the antenna's pixel position across the horizontal plane on the work area Y Pos ft: Denotes the antennas vertical position in feet Y Pos: Slides the antenna's pixel position up and down the vertical plane on the work area Z Pos ft: Signifies the antennas height measured in feet Z Pos: Represents the antenna's pixel position in height www.waterfordconsultants.com Waterford Consultants, LLC 7430 New Technology Way, Suite 150 Frederick, MD 21703 703.596.1022 rfmaster@waterfordconsultants.com www.waterfordconsultants.com