Overview
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
- 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.
Anchor the mounting plate using the included hardware or tape.
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.
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.
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.
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
Open the Network page
From the property menu, select Equipment.
Then select the Network tab in the upper right-hand corner.
Add the Repeater
Locate the serial number on the back of the Repeater.
Enter the serial number in the Web Portal.
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.
The Repeater's communication status will then update.
Open the Network page
Navigate to the Property by going to the Properties Menu
Add the Repeater
Locate the serial number on the back of the Repeater.
Enter the serial number into the mobile app and select "Program Device".
Note
Be sure to add a note describing the Repeater location. Adding a picture as well as a GPS tag while at the Repeater is also highly recommended.
The Repeater will then be added to the property.
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.
The Repeater's communication status will then update on the mobile app.
FAQ
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, including building materials, distance, and the number of devices.
Building Material
The material directly around where the Transceiver is placed affects its ability to transmit and receive signals. If the building uses masonry or steel-frame construction, Repeaters will be necessary to increase the strength of the signal in certain areas.
Distance
Our equipment can transmit and receive signals up to 200 ft, even without line of sight. Buildings, terrain and other objects can still cause signal issues at shorter distances (see Building Material above). If a device has 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.
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.
No. The RE4 isn't approved for outdoor use. Install it indoors, in a dry location within its operating temperature range of -20°C to 60°C (-4°F to 140°F).
If you need a Repeater outdoors, the upcoming NL5 NextLink can act as both a Gateway and a Repeater.
Follow the Installation Guide for instructions on how to program the RE4
To estimate the cost of electricity for your property's Gateway and Repeaters, use the Power Usage and Cost Calculator. Open it in your browser, or download it as an Excel spreadsheet.
Enter your property's details at the top, and the calculator works out the power use and cost for the Gateway and each Repeater.
The calculations 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.
The RE4 has a Power light and an RF Activity light.
- Power light: green when it's on but not connected to a Gateway, blue when it has a healthy connection to its Gateway, and red when it's running on backup power.
- RF Activity light, after you press Test Connect: blinks red while it's connecting, then blinks green twice when the Gateway is reached.
- RF Activity light, the rest of the time: fast blinks when it hears nearby devices: blue when it's passing a message along, red when it's passing along a message from a legacy device.