RE4 Repeater

Overview

Repeater 4 20 Copy

Wireless Repeater that extends and strengthens network coverage.

The NextCentury RE4 Repeater is a powerful wireless device that extends and amplifies network coverage. Dual antennas and smart frequency hopping help mitigate interference in even the most challenging environments.

With the longest range in its class and simple plug-n-play setup, RE4 installation is quick and easy.

Specifications

Connectivity

NextCentury Connect™ 902-928 MHz
Configuration Requirements Plug-n-play installation
Assign using website or mobile app
Mobile Setup Bluetooth (BLE) for setup and diagnostics via the NCSS Mobile App

Physical and power

Operation Environment -20°C to 60°C (-4°F to 140°F )
Indoor installation
Power Requirements 120/240 VAC outlet required
15VDC 1A power supply (included)
Dimensions 4.7” x 3.1” x 1.1” (120mm x 80mm x 28mm)

Compatibility

Transceivers TR4 Transceiver
TR4-X Outdoor Transceiver
TR201 Transceiver
RR4-TR Remote Reader
RR301-TR Remote Reader
Network Devices GW4 Gateway (5G/LTE)
GW4-Lite Gateway
GW301 Gateway
GW301-Lite Gateway
GW201 Gateway (LCD)
RE201 Repeater

Security & warranty

Security Encrypted wireless communication
Warranty 3-year standard warranty

Certifications

Certifications FCC: 2AB8I-RE4  |  IC: 20949-RE4

Installation

Package Contents
  • A - RE4 Repeater
  • B - Mounting Plate
  • C - Mounting Hardware
  • D - Power Supply

Install the Repeater

Mount the RE4 Repeater

Remove the mounting plate from the Repeater.

Remove the mounting plate from the Repeater

Anchor the mounting plate using the included hardware or tape.

Anchor the mounting plate using the included hardware or tape

Slide the Repeater back onto the mounting plate.

Slide the Repeater back onto the mounting plate

Connect the Power Supply

Using a standard electrical outlet, connect the included power supply to the Repeater.

Using a standard electrical outlet, connect the included power supply to the Repeater

Caution

Only use the provided power supply. The correct power supply has an output of 15v.

Repeaters must be installed at least three feet away from GFCI outlets to avoid interference.

Power Repeater

Verify Repeater communication

Press the Test Connect button. The Repeater’s RF LED will blink green when it is able to communicate with its Gateway.

Press the Test Connect button. The Repeater’s RF LED will blink green when it is able to communicate with its Gateway

Note

The RE4 Repeater must be programmed in the NextCentury Cloud and its Gateway must be online, in order for it to begin communicating with its Gateway.

Programming

Web App Login Page

Open the Network page

From the property menu, select Equipment.

From the property menu, select Equipment

Then select the Network tab in the upper right-hand corner.

Then select the Network tab in the upper right-hand corner

Add the Repeater

Locate the serial number on the back of the Repeater.

Locate the serial number on the back of the Repeater

Enter the serial number in the Web Portal.

Enter the serial number in the Web Portal

The Repeater will then be added to the property.

The Repeater will then be added to the property

Note

Be sure to add a note describing the Repeater location. Adding a picture as well as a GPS tag using the mobile app is also highly recommended.

Verify Repeater communication

Press the Test Connect button on the Repeater. The Repeater’s RF LED will blink green when it is able to communicate with its Gateway.

Press the Test Connect button on the Repeater. The Repeater’s RF LED will blink green when it is able to communicate with its Gateway

The Repeater's communication status will then update.

The Repeater's communication status will then update

FAQ

When is a Repeater recommended?

A Repeater is recommended when your property is having connection issues with the Transceivers that are the farthest from your Gateway. There are multiple things that can cause this issue including Building Material, Distance Limitations, and Amount of Devices.

Building Material

The Material Directly around where the Transceiver is placed will affect its ability to transmit and receive signals. If your building is primarily made out of stone and/or metal then Repeaters will be necessary to increase the strength of the signal in certain areas.

Distance

Our equipment is able to transmit and receive signals up to 200ft with line-of-sight communication. Typically we dont recommend going over 150ft due to the variability of connection due to many different factors. If you do have to go above this distance and the device is having a hard time connecting to the Gateway a Repeater may be needed.

Amount of Devices

A Repeater is recommended for every 70 devices that you plan to operate at your property.

What are the typical installation requirements for the RE4?

For a full guide go to RE4 Repeater Installation

The RE4 Repeater is intended for indoor use only. It operates within a temperature range of -20°C to 60°C (-4°F to 140°F). Ensure that the device is placed in an environment within these temperature limits to guarantee reliable and sustained performance.

When installing the RE4 Repeater, carefully consider its placement to maximize signal reception and transmission. Avoid locations with potential signal interference, such as dense walls, large metal structures, or electronic equipment emitting electromagnetic interference. Proper placement ensures the Repeater can effectively amplify and relay signals within the submetering network.

Be mindful of devices or materials that can obstruct or degrade wireless signals. Examples include concrete walls, metal structures, and electronic appliances like microwave ovens, refrigerators, and Wi-Fi routers. Placing the RE4 Repeater strategically can help minimize signal disruptions from these sources.

Can I install the RE4 outdoors?

Currently there are no options that we provide for storing Repeaters outdoors. It is not recommended to put them into weatherproof boxes as this can hamper the Repeaters function to communicate with other devices. The RE4 operates within a temperature range of -20°C to 60°C (-4°F to 140°F). Ensure that the device is placed in an environment within these temperature limits to guarantee reliable and sustained performance.

How do I program my Repeater?

Follow the Installation Guide for instructions on how to program the RE4

How much will it cost to run the equipment on my property?

Power and Cost Calculator

If you ever need to calculate the cost of electricity for our Repeaters or Gateway you can use this Tool.


Power and Cost Calculator


Just input your variables into the top of sheet and the tool will calculate the numbers and give you information about how they will operate on your property.

The above calcuations are based on worst case scenarios for network layout. It assumes that every Repeater will be involved in routing every message that is sent on the network. This is possible but is not typical. It also has a network retry rate of 15% built in. This is a higher than average retry rate. For stronger network layouts the values above can be improved. All of the above calculations are estimates and actual usage may vary.

What do the lights mean on my RE4?

The RE4 has a Power light and a RF light the will flash different colors and combinations.

RE4 LED Diagram

Due to updated regulations and product improvements, Next Meters reserves the right to change the product specifications without notice.