Higher performance, overcoming lock-in, and maintenance activities: a deep dive into the RÆVO radio

RÆVO is the latest radio developed by CAE specifically for updates to hydro-meteorological monitoring networks, in order to increase interoperability, standardization and transmission speed, while maintaining the traditional reliability that radio networks have always guaranteed.

The radio modem is suited to the creation of Point-to-Point and Point-to-Multipoint connections, even with very complex networks that require very low power consumption: its use in environmental monitoring and warning systems implies the need to guarantee operation in extreme conditions and give up the power supply from mains. Consequently, RÆVO is developed to ensure functionality even when powered by a solar panel and buffer battery.

With regard to interoperability with commercial dataloggers and implementation into mixed technology systems, RÆVO allows interfacing with external devices via 3 ports: RS485, RS232 and Ethernet. Being a CAEtech product, RÆVO is able to interact with devices and applications of different nature, as it is able to support modern standard IP protocols.

Therefore, thanks to CAE’s investments, the RÆVO radio combines a transmission speed of 14,400 bps with the possibility of using standard IP protocols, while ensuring low energy consumption.

With these devices, besides achieving high transmission speeds, it is possible to implement radio network characterized by so-called “multiple paths”.

As known, UHF radios generally are fully compatible only with radios of the same brand, and, among them, with some models. This happens because the “on-air protocol” implemented by specific radio manufacturer is usually “proprietary” and not made known.

In order to mitigate the potential lock-in that could be associated with this technological characteristic, RAEVO provides on-board modulations from the Finnish manufacturer, SATEL OY. This allows the radio to be used in a compatible way with other devices from the same manufacturer for certain applications.

To ensure commercial transparency and accessibility, especially in the Italian market where single-distributor models can often create bottlenecks, CAE has established a network of selected distributors committed to making the RÆVO radio available to all operators.

Among these partners is Sartelco Sistemi Srl, a company chosen for its extensive experience and historical presence in the sector. Under a formal commercial agreement with CAE, Sartelco and other specialists ensure the RÆVO radio remains freely available on the market.

Ivan Sartini of Sartelco Sistemi Srl confirms this commitment to availability: "To the best of my knowledge, to date, Sartelco Sistemi has always offered the RÆVO radio to any operator who has requested it in Italy. We have accepted all orders received following our offers, within the timelines provided by the factory."