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Q. Can terrain make a difference of how reliable the monitoring system will function?

A. Yes, the STU must “see” the sky in order to receive GPS information from the GPS constellation of satellites, and send information to the communications constellation of satellites. Nearby buildings, steep terrain, or high trees can block these radio transmissions. The easiest check is to do a cold start (turn from off to on) with a hand held GPS receiver at the location you think you would like to locate the STU – if you get a latitude and longitude reading and can “see” at least 4 satellites on the GPS receiver you are most likely in a place the STU should function normally. When placing the STU it is ideal if it can face in a southerly direction if at all possible if not aim the unit directly overhead (this is for placements in the northern hemisphere – aim the STU to the north in the southern hemisphere).