Planning Wireless Network

Posted on June 11, 2008 by acceslist

Standard
The Wireless Access Point utilizes the 802.11b and the 802.11g standards. The IEEE 802.11g standard is an extension of the 802.11b standard. It increases the data rate up to 54 Mbps (108Mbps in Super G mode) within the 2.4GHz band, utilizing OFDM technology. This means that in most environments, within the specified range of this device, you will be able to transfer large files quickly or even watch a movie in MPEG format you’re your network without noticeable delays. This technology works by transmitting high-speed digital data over a radio wave utilizing OFDM (Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiplexing) technology. OFDM works by splitting the radio signal into multiple smaller sub-signals that are then transmitted simultaneously at different frequencies to the receiver. OFDM reduces the amount of cross talk (interference) in signal transmissions. The AP will automatically sense the best possible connection speed to ensure the greatest speed and range possible. 802.11g offers the most advanced network security features available today, including: WPA, TKIP, AES and Pre-Shared Key mode.

Network Topology
A wireless network is a group of computers, each equipped with one wireless adapter. Computers in a wireless network must be configured to share the same radio channel. Several PCs equipped with wireless cards or adapters can communicate with one another to form an ad-hoc network. The wireless adapters also provide users access to a wired network when using an access point or wireless router. An integrated wireless and wired network is called an infrastructure network. Each wireless PC in an infrastructure network can talk to any computer in a wired network infrastructure via the access point or wireless router. An infrastructure configuration extends the accessibility of a wireless PC to a wired network, and may double the effective wireless transmission range for two wireless adapter PCs. Since an access point is able to forward data within a network, the effective transmission range in an infrastructure network may be doubled.

Roaming
Infrastructure mode also supports roaming capabilities for mobile users. Roaming means that you can move your wireless PC within your network and the access points will pick up the wireless PC’s signal, providing that they both share the same channel and SSID. Before enabling you consider roaming, choose a feasible radio channel and optimum access point position. Proper access point positioning combined with a clear radio signal will greatly enhance performance.
Network Layout
The AP Access Point has been designed for use with 802.11g and 802.11b products. With 802.11g products communicating with the 802.11b standard, products using these standards can communicate with each other. The Access point is compatible with 802.11g and 802.11b adapters, such at the PC Cards for your laptop computers, PCI Card for your desktop PC, and USB Adapters for when you want to enjoy USB connectivity. These wireless products can also communicate with a 802.11g or 802.11b wireless Print Server. When you wish to connect your wired network with your wireless network, the Access Point’s network port can be used to connect to any of switches or routers.

Installation Considerations
The AP lets you access your network, using a wireless connection, from virtually anywhere within its operating range. Keep in mind, however, that the number, thickness and location of walls, ceilings, or other objects that the wireless signals must pass through, may limit the range. Typical ranges vary depending on the types of materials and background RF (radio frequency) noise in your home or business. The key to maximizing wireless range is to follow these basic guidelines:
􀁺 Keep your product away (at least 3-6 feet or 1-2 meters) from electrical devices or appliances that generate RF noise.
􀁺 Keep the number of walls and ceilings between the AP and other network devices to a minimum – each wall or ceiling can reduce your AP’s range from 3-90 feet (1-30 meters.) Position your devices so that the number of walls or ceilings is minimized.
􀁺 Be aware of the direct line between network devices. A wall that is 1.5 feet thick(0.5 meters), at a 45-degree angle appears to be almost 3 feet (1 meter) thick. At a 2-degree angle it looks over 42 feet (14 meters) thick! Position devices so that the signal will travel straight through a wall or ceiling (instead of at an angle) for better reception.
􀁺 Building materials can impede the wireless signal – a solid metal door or aluminum studs may have a negative effect on range. Try to position wireless devices and computers with wireless adapters so that the signal passes through drywall or open doorways and not other materials.

1. Network Topology – AP Mode and Client Mode