Sub-GHz 868/915 MHz Repeater Mode: Extending Range and Bypassing Terrain Obstacles

fireTEK's dual-band architecture allows pyrotechnicians to exploit the distinct physical characteristics of two electromagnetic spectra: - **2.4 GHz Band:** High data throughput, dynamic multi-hop mesh (up to 30 hops). Ideal for dense stadium perimeters, truss rings, and indoor venues. - **Sub-GHz Band (868 MHz in Europe, 915 MHz in North America):** Lower frequency means longer wavelength (~34 cm). These longer waves diffract much more effectively around physical obstacles (trees, hills, earth berms) and experience significantly lower atmospheric attenuation. However, standard Sub-GHz communication is Point-to-Point. If a firing module is positioned deep inside a quarry, on the far side of a river levee, or behind a castle battlement, line-of-sight is severed. This is where **fireTEK Repeater Mode** solves the challenge.

Enabling Repeater mode requires no external computer or programming cable. It is configured directly on the module's illuminated LCD panel: 1. Power on the FTQ module using the front tactile button. 2. Navigate through the system menu using the select buttons until reaching **Wireless Config**. 3. Scroll down to **RF Mode: Standard** and press enter to toggle to **RF Mode: Repeater**. 4. The module display will confirm: `REPEATER ON [868/915]`. An alternating LED flash sequence confirms that the transceiver is actively listening and mirroring all network packets.

To achieve maximum range and penetration, follow the **Elevated Apex Rule**: - **Do not place the repeater on the ground:** Ground clutter, damp grass, and soil absorb RF energy. - **Mount at 2m+ elevation:** Utilize an external magnetic base antenna (`ANT-868CB`) placed on the roof of a production van, a PA speaker tower, or a dedicated lighting stand. - **Position at the line-of-sight vertex:** Choose a physical position that has direct line-of-sight to both the main firing console (FOH) and the obscured downstream modules in the valley or behind the structure.