Cisco Aironet 1570 Series Hardware Installation Manual - Page 5

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Chapter 2

Preparing for Installation

Access Point Installation Guidelines

Personnel installing the access point must understand wireless access points and bridging techniques and

grounding methods.

Because the access point is a radio device, it is susceptible to common causes of interference that can

reduce throughput and range. Follow these basic guidelines to ensure the best possible performance:

•

Note

To calculate path loss and to determine how far apart to install access points, consult an RF planning

expert.

Site Surveys

Every network application is a unique installation. Before installing multiple access points, you should

perform a site survey to determine the optimum use of networking components and to maximize range,

coverage, and network performance.

Site surveys reveal problems that can be resolved before the network is operational. Because

802.11a/b/g/n/ac operates in an unlicensed spectrum, there may be sources of interference from other

802.11a wireless devices (especially in multi-tenant buildings) that could degrade your 802.11 signals.

A site survey can determine if such interference exists at the time of deployment.

A proper site survey involves temporarily setting up mesh links and taking measurements to determine

whether your antenna calculations are accurate. Determine the correct locations and antenna types

before you drill holes and route cables and mounting equipment.

Consider the following operating and environmental conditions when performing a site survey:

•

OL-32138-01

Review the FCC guidelines for installing and operating outdoor wireless LAN devices at

http://www.cisco.com/c/en/us/products/collateral/routers/3200-series-rugged-integrated-services-r

outers-isr/data_sheet_c78-647116.html

Perform a site survey before beginning the installation.

Install the access point in an area where structures, trees, or hills do not obstruct radio signals to and

from the access point.

The access points can be installed at any height, but best throughput is achieved when all the access

points are mounted at the same height. We recommend installing the access points no higher than

40 feet to allow support for wireless clients on the ground.

Data rates—Sensitivity and range are inversely proportional to data bit rates. The maximum radio

range is achieved at the lowest workable data rate. A decrease in receiver sensitivity occurs as the

radio data increases.

Antenna type and placement—Proper antenna configuration is a critical factor in maximizing radio

range. As a general rule, range increases in proportion to antenna height. However, do not place the

antenna higher than necessary, because the extra height also increases potential interference from

other unlicensed radio systems and decreases the wireless coverage from the ground.

Physical environment—Clear or open areas provide better radio range than closed or filled areas.

Obstructions—Physical obstructions such as buildings, trees, or hills can hinder performance of

wireless devices. Avoid locating the devices in a location where there is an obstruction between the

sending and receiving antennas.

How far is your wireless link?

Cisco Aironet 1570 Series Outdoor Access Point Hardware Installation Guide

Access Point Installation Guidelines

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