How close does the computer have to be to the MATE? How close does the MATE have to be to the OutBack equipment?
In a local installation, the MATE usually connected to the computer by a serial data cable. Serial cable lengths in excess of 25 feet (8 meters) are not usually recommended, as they can lead to increased communication errors. (See Remote Monitoring section for some ways around this limitation.) The connection between the MATE and the OutBack equipment is by CAT5 network cable (using a non-standard protocol), and has been successfully tested at 1000 feet (300 meters). Note that cables should not be run in conduit with AC wiring. Such environments can generate communication errors.
