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Carbon Fiber Mast & Beacon

Extend WiFi APs, cellular gateways, and beacons above the EDC for better coverage and visibility.

⏱️ Time Required: 5 minutes (basic setup) | 10 minutes (full deployment with equipment)

Overview​

Your EDC includes an optional carbon fiber telescoping mast for elevating antennas, access points, and identification beacons:

Mast Specifications:

  • Material: Carbon fiber (lightweight, strong)
  • Pole length: 6.7 feet (2.05 meters) when fully extended
  • Sections: 2-section telescoping design
  • Total deployed height: 8.4 feet (2.57 meters) from ground to top
    • Includes EDC base height + extended pole
  • Weight capacity: Up to 3 lbs (tested)
  • Mounting location: Exterior of EDC case

[IMAGE: EDC with carbon fiber mast fully extended showing total height]

What can mount on the mast:

  • Light beacon (identification/safety)
  • Cellular wireless gateways (Mako 5600, HiveRadar CWG)
  • WiFi access points
  • Antennas (cellular, WiFi, radio equipment)

What's Included​

Standard components (stored in top drawer):

  1. 3-section carbon fiber pole (telescoping)

    • Collapses for storage
    • Extends to 6.7 feet
    • Lightweight and durable

  2. T-bar mounting bracket

    • Universal mounting adapter
    • Attaches to top of pole
    • Compatible with standard WiFi AP mounting

  3. Light beacon

    • Visual identification device
    • Mounts to top of pole
    • Helps locate EDC in dark or crowded areas

[IMAGE: Mast components laid out - pole sections, T-bar bracket, beacon]

For Most Users: Quick Beacon Setup​

Simple beacon deployment for identification:

Step 1: Extend the Mast​

  1. Remove pole from top drawer

    • Pole is stored in collapsed/nested form
    • Handle carefully (carbon fiber can scratch)

  2. Locate mast mounting point

    • On exterior of EDC case
    • Near HiveRadar logo and LED control buttons

  3. Insert pole into mounting point

    • Push pole into mount until secure
    • May twist-lock or have retention mechanism

[IMAGE: Pole mounting location on EDC exterior]

  1. Extend pole sections

    • Pull upper section upward to extend
    • Typical telescoping pole operation
    • Extends to 6.7 feet

  2. Lock sections in place

    • Twist-lock or collar lock (depending on pole design)
    • Ensure pole is rigid and won't collapse

Total height from ground: 8.4 feet (2.57 meters)

Step 2: Attach the Beacon​

  1. Take beacon from top drawer

  2. Attach to top of pole:

    • May screw onto threaded pole top
    • Or use T-bar bracket as adapter
    • Follow beacon's mounting instructions

  3. Verify secure mounting:

    • Beacon should not wobble
    • Test gentle push to ensure it's secure
    • Don't over-tighten (can damage carbon fiber)

[IMAGE: Beacon mounted on top of fully extended mast]

✅ Done! Your EDC is now more visible and identifiable, especially at night or in crowded deployments.

Weight Capacity and Balance​

Important Weight Limits​

Maximum tested weight: 3 lbs (1.36 kg)

Critical for safety and pole integrity:

  • Exceeding weight limit can bend or damage pole
  • Carbon fiber is strong but can be stressed by leverage
  • Taller pole = more leverage = more stress

Weight examples:

  • Light beacon: < 0.5 lbs ✅
  • Small WiFi AP: 1-2 lbs ✅
  • Mako 5600 gateway: ~2-3 lbs ✅
  • Large outdoor AP with antennas: 3-5 lbs ⚠️ (may exceed limit)

Center of Gravity Matters​

Keep equipment centered on pole top:

  • Off-center weight creates bending moment
  • Centered weight is easier for pole to support
  • Heavy equipment should be as close to center as possible

Bad: Long antenna extending far to one side Good: Equipment centered, short antennas balanced

[IMAGE: Diagram showing centered vs off-center weight distribution]

If equipment is heavy or off-balance:

  • Use shorter extension (don't fully extend pole)
  • Add guy wires or supports (for permanent deployments)
  • Consider alternative mounting (ground-based tripod)

Advanced Setup: Mounting Equipment​

📡 Mounting WiFi Access Points

Using the T-bar bracket:

  1. Attach T-bar to pole top:

    • Screw or insert T-bar onto pole
    • Ensure secure connection
    • T-bar provides horizontal mounting surface

  2. Mount AP to T-bar:

    • Most WiFi APs have standard mounting holes
    • Use provided screws/hardware
    • Orient AP for best coverage (usually horizontal)

  3. Connect AP power and network:

    • Run cable down the pole to EDC
    • Use cable ties to secure cable to pole
    • Connect to available PoE switch port
    • See Switch Configuration for PoE setup

  4. Manage cable:

    • Route cable along pole (cable ties every 12-18 inches)
    • Leave slight slack at top (prevents strain)
    • Protect cable from pinching when retracting pole

[IMAGE: WiFi AP mounted on T-bar bracket with cable management]

Supported APs:

  • Standard 802.11ax WiFi 6 APs
  • Outdoor-rated APs with weatherproofing
  • Check weight (must be under 3 lbs with antennas)

Tips:

  • Omnidirectional antennas work best
  • Point directional antennas as needed
  • Test signal coverage after mounting
  • Adjust height if needed for optimal coverage
📡 Mounting Cellular Gateways

Mako 5600 5G Gateway (if included):

  1. Remove Mako from top drawer

    • Detach from velcro storage
    • Locate included T-bar adapter bracket

  2. Mount Mako to bracket:

    • Use Mako's T-bar adapter (provided with Mako purchase)
    • Adapter attaches to standard T-bar on pole
    • Secure with provided hardware

  3. Attach antennas to Mako:

    • Small cellular antennas connect directly to Mako
    • Screw antennas onto SMA connectors
    • Position for best cellular signal

  4. Cable connections (Mako requires 2 cables):

    • Cable 1: WAN + PoE port on Mako
      • Connects to switch port configured for PoE only (port disabled for data)
      • Provides power to Mako
    • Cable 2: LAN port on Mako
      • Connects to switch per network configuration
    • Refer to manufacturer documentation for detailed Mako setup

[IMAGE: Mako 5600 mounted on T-bar with antennas and cables]

HiveRadar CWG (alternative gateway):

  1. Different mounting bracket:

    • CWG uses specific bracket (not T-bar)
    • Mounts directly to pole (not on T-bar adapter)

  2. Follow CWG mounting instructions:

📡 Mounting Other Radio Equipment

Compatible equipment:

  • LoRaWAN gateways
  • Radio repeaters
  • Small satellite terminals
  • Other wireless infrastructure

General mounting guidelines:

  1. Check weight: Must be under 3 lbs
  2. Use T-bar or custom bracket: Depends on equipment
  3. Center the load: Keep weight balanced
  4. Cable management: Secure cables along pole
  5. Weatherproofing: Use outdoor-rated equipment and connections

Power options:

  • PoE (if equipment supports it): Connect to switch PoE port
  • DC power adapter: Run power cable from EDC
  • Battery powered: Use for temporary deployments only

Connection to EDC:

  • Wired: Ethernet cable to switch keystone panel
  • Wireless: Configure as needed for your deployment

Deployment Scenarios​

Indoor Deployments​

Why use the mast indoors:

  • Raise WiFi AP above obstacles (furniture, equipment)
  • Improve line-of-sight coverage
  • Identify EDC in crowded facility

Ceiling height considerations:

  • 8.4 feet total height may approach ceiling
  • Don't fully extend if ceiling is low
  • Partial extension still improves coverage

Safety:

  • Ensure mast won't hit ceiling fans or fixtures
  • Secure EDC so it won't tip over
  • Consider tip-over hazard in high-traffic areas

Outdoor Deployments​

Why use the mast outdoors:

  • Maximum WiFi range and coverage
  • Better cellular signal reception
  • Beacon visibility for identification
  • Clear line-of-sight over terrain

Environmental considerations:

  • EDC itself is not weatherproof - must be under shelter
  • Mast and mounted equipment exposed to elements
  • Use outdoor-rated equipment only
  • Consider wind loading on tall mast with equipment

Wind and weather:

  • Carbon fiber pole can flex in wind
  • Mounted equipment acts as sail in wind
  • Lighter equipment = better in windy conditions
  • Retract mast in severe weather

[IMAGE: EDC deployed outdoors with mast under canopy or shelter]

Emergency/Tactical Deployments​

Rapid deployment:

  1. Position EDC
  2. Extend mast
  3. Mount beacon for identification
  4. Optional: Add WiFi AP for coverage

Mobility:

  • Mast can be retracted for transport
  • Beacon stays mounted (if lightweight)
  • WiFi AP should be removed before moving
  • Reextend at new location

Identification:

  • Beacon makes EDC easy to locate
  • Critical in disaster response scenarios
  • Visible from distance at night

Mast Specifications Reference​

📏 Detailed Specifications

Dimensions:

  • Collapsed length: TBD (stored in top drawer)
  • Extended length: 6.7 feet (2.05 meters)
  • Total height from ground: 8.4 feet (2.57 meters)
  • Pole diameter: TBD (standard carbon fiber tube)

Construction:

  • Material: Carbon fiber composite
  • Sections: 2-section telescoping
  • Locking mechanism: Twist-lock or collar lock (TBD)
  • Finish: Carbon fiber weave visible

Capacity:

  • Weight limit: 3 lbs (tested, centered load)
  • Wind loading: Not specified (use caution in high wind)

Mounting:

  • Base mount: Integrated into EDC exterior
  • Top mount: T-bar bracket or threaded adapter
  • Cable routing: Along pole exterior with cable ties

Included accessories:

  • T-bar mounting bracket
  • Light beacon
  • (Mako bracket included with Mako purchase)

Maintenance and Care​

🔧 Caring for Carbon Fiber Pole

Carbon fiber is strong but can be damaged:

Do:

  • Store collapsed in drawer when not in use
  • Wipe clean with soft cloth
  • Inspect for cracks or damage before each use
  • Extend and retract smoothly

Don't:

  • Drop or impact the pole
  • Over-tighten clamps or locks (can crush carbon fiber)
  • Scratch or gouge the surface
  • Exceed weight limits
  • Leave extended during transport

Inspection before use:

  • Check for cracks (especially near joints)
  • Verify locking mechanisms work properly
  • Look for delamination or fiber damage
  • Test extension and retraction smoothly

If damaged:

  • Do not use damaged pole (structural failure risk)
  • Contact your reseller/partner for replacement
  • Carbon fiber repairs typically not practical

Troubleshooting​

🔧 Mast won't extend or retract

Problem: Pole sections stuck, won't slide

Solutions:

  1. Dirt or debris in joint:

    • Wipe sections clean
    • Remove any dirt or grit
    • Don't use lubricant (attracts more dirt)

  2. Lock mechanism engaged:

    • Check twist-lock or collar lock
    • Ensure fully unlocked before extending/retracting
    • May need to twist while pulling

  3. Pole bent or damaged:

    • Inspect for bends or damage
    • If bent, pole may be unsafe to use
    • Contact support for replacement
🔧 Equipment wobbling or unstable on mast

Problem: Mounted equipment wobbles, feels insecure

Solutions:

  1. Check mounting hardware:

    • Tighten screws/bolts
    • Verify T-bar or bracket is secure
    • Don't over-tighten on carbon fiber

  2. Equipment too heavy:

    • May exceed 3 lb weight limit
    • Pole flexes under excessive weight
    • Use lighter equipment or shorter extension

  3. Off-center weight:

    • Reposition equipment to center
    • Balance antennas on both sides
    • Add counterweight if needed (carefully)

  4. Pole sections not locked:

    • Verify twist-locks or collars engaged
    • Pole may be telescoping under load
    • Fully engage all locking mechanisms
🔧 Beacon or equipment not getting power

Problem: WiFi AP or equipment on mast not powering on

Solutions:

  1. Check cable connections:

    • Verify cable connected to switch PoE port
    • Check cable connection at equipment
    • Inspect for damaged cable

  2. Verify PoE enabled:

  3. Check PoE power budget:

    • May have exceeded 240W PoE total
    • View PoE status in switch interface
    • Disconnect non-essential PoE devices to free budget

  4. Cable too long or damaged:

    • PoE has distance limits (~100 meters)
    • Check for cable damage from pinching
    • Try different cable

Safety Guidelines​

Tip-over hazard:

  • Extended mast raises center of gravity
  • EDC may be less stable with tall mast
  • Don't bump or push EDC when mast extended
  • Position on level surface

Overhead hazard:

  • Watch for overhead obstructions
  • Power lines, tree branches, ceilings
  • Fully extended mast is 8.4 feet tall
  • Be aware when extending/retracting

Wind loading:

  • Mounted equipment catches wind
  • Can create significant force on pole
  • Retract in high wind conditions
  • Don't use in severe weather

Electrical safety:

  • Don't extend mast near power lines
  • Carbon fiber is conductive
  • Electric shock hazard if contacts power
  • Maintain safe clearance from electrical

Weight limits:

  • Don't exceed 3 lb capacity
  • Pole can fail under excessive weight
  • Failure could damage equipment and EDC
  • When in doubt, use lighter equipment

What's Next?​

After setting up your mast and beacon:

👉 Storage Drawers - Organize mast and accessories