Industry: Construction & Heavy Equipment
Location: Midwest USA
Products Used: GNS 5 W 900 MHz Amplifier, 6 dBi Omni Antenna, N-Male to N-Female Coax Cable, RP-TNC Adapter Kit
The Challenge
A local excavation company relied on wireless data communication between a base station and an excavator equipped with GPS and telemetry sensors. The distance between the base and the machine was roughly ½ mile, but due to large dirt piles, dust, and constant movement, the line-of-sight signal was unreliable.
The customer needed a solution that could:
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Maintain strong, consistent communication through obstacles and heavy dust
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Support 12 V or 24 V operation from on-site power sources
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Extend range beyond the current limit, ideally to 1 mile or more
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Operate in the 900 MHz band, which is proven for long-range, non-line-of-sight transmission
The GNS Solution
After discussing site conditions and equipment specifications, the GNS technical team recommended the GNS-AMP900-5W, a 5-watt 900 MHz amplifier designed for rugged outdoor environments.
The amplifier connects inline between the radio and antenna using low-loss LMR-400 coaxial cable with N-male and N-female connectors. For radios using RP-TNC interfaces, RP-TNC to N-type adapter kits are available directly from GNS Wireless, ensuring plug-and-play compatibility with existing gear.
Because the amplifiers operate at 12 VDC, they can draw power directly from most vehicle or equipment sources. For 24 VDC systems, GNS supplied a DC-DC voltage converter, delivering the proper regulated power to the amplifier without modification.
The Results
After installing the 5 W amplifier and pairing it with a 6 dBi 900 MHz omni-directional antenna on the excavator, the signal strength immediately improved. Even when the excavator moved behind dirt piles, connection to the base station remained stable.
Signal testing showed:
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Range extended from 0.5 mile to over 1 mile
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RSSI improved by 12 dB, resulting in fewer packet drops
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Reliable operation even in areas with moderate obstructions
In follow-up discussions, the customer noted that the system was now “rock solid”, with seamless data transfer between the excavator and base station — even while in motion. The result was increased productivity and zero downtime due to signal loss.
Scalable Power Options for Every Application
GNS Wireless offers a complete line of 900 MHz amplifiers for industrial and agricultural communications:
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1 W Amplifier – Ideal for short-range telemetry, remote sensors, or small farm automation networks.
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5 W Amplifier – Excellent for mobile equipment like excavators, tractors, or remote pumps within 1–2 miles.
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10 W Amplifier – Provides even greater range and signal penetration through trees, terrain, or light structures.
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20 W Amplifier – Designed for fixed base stations or long-range point-to-point systems that demand maximum output power.
Each amplifier is FCC-compliant, supports 12 VDC input, and can be paired with a 24 VDC voltage converter supplied by GNS Wireless.
The Takeaway
When reliable communication matters — whether across a construction site, farm, or industrial yard — GNS Wireless 900 MHz amplifiers deliver the range and reliability you need. With rugged construction, simple installation, and custom power options, they’re the perfect upgrade for any long-range wireless system facing line-of-sight challenges.
Ready to extend your range?
Call GNS Wireless at (877) 209-5152 or visit gnswireless.com to explore the full line of 900 MHz amplifiers, antennas, and coaxial accessories.