Installation Tips

Check out the Documentation Page to download the Quick Start Guide and User Manual for detailed installation instructions.   Continue reading below for more tips on physical installation of sensors and the RV Whisper Monitor Station.

Check out our WiFi Troubleshooting Steps.

Where’s the best location to install RV Whisper® Monitor Station and Sensors?

It depends! The RV Whisper® computer uses Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) technology to communicate with the wireless sensors. The range between them is ~50 yards in open air, but physical objects and walls can limit that range.

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USB POWER: You will need to provide USB power to the RV Whisper Monitor Station, preferably from a hardwired 12 Volt USB power adapter or from a USB cigarette lighter adapter.  Using a 12 Volt USB power adapter lets your RV Whisper Monitor Station work even when you lose shore power – CRITICAL FOR PET SAFETY!  The RV Whisper Monitor Station includes a 120 Volt AC USB power adapter for easy setup purposes.

Generally, we recommend installing the RV Whisper® Monitor Station (black box in picture) close to the wireless sensors installed in your RV. Attempt to minimize obstructions between the sensors and the computer. But your RV Whisper® computer can also help you find the best locations to place your sensors!

RV Whisper BV2 Bluetooth Battery Voltage Sensor

First install the BV2 Battery Sensors  and then test different locations of the RV Whisper® Monitor Station to make sure the Battery Sensor radio signal reaches the Monitor Station.  Every 5 minutes the radio signal strength is recorded along with the voltage and temperature data.

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RV Whisper Bluetooth Temperature & Humidity Sensor

Next place the BTH1 Temperature & Humidity Sensors where you want them and make sure the signals are received by the Monitor Station. Generally, the Battery Sensor location is the most difficult to change, while the temperature sensor and Monitor Station locations can be changed more easily.

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RV Whisper graph of Radio Signal Strength Indication (RSSI) for a single sensor

RV Whisper® automatically tracks and records the received signal strength (RSSI) of each wireless sensor, which indicates how well the RV Whisper® Monitor Station can hear the signal. RSSI data are constantly collected from each sensor, so you can move your sensors around your RV and get feedback on how well a sensor location works in your RV. Track your RSSI data over time to see any changes in signal strength.  This graph shows RSSI values from -80 dB to -120 dB which is a moderately weak signal.

How it Works – Architecture Diagram

Here is how the monitor station connects to the internet and to sensors.

Support

Have questions about the installation process or need assistance? Contact us at support@rvwhisper.com or call 410-286-3060.