User's Manual

Table Of Contents

Quick Start Guide: Cisco Aironet 1500 Series Lightweight Outdoor Mesh Access Point

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Chapter 2 Installation Overview

Installation Guidelines

Because the outdoor 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:

• Install the outdoor access point in an area where structures, trees, or hills do not obstruct radio

signals to and from the outdoor access point.

• Install the outdoor access point at a height sufficient to provide clear line-of-sight signal path.

Site Surveys

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

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

range, coverage, and network performance.

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

• 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.

• 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.

Unpacking the Outdoor Access Point

Note When you are unpacking the outdoor access point, do not remove the foam block attached to the face of

the outdoor access point until after the outdoor access point is installed. The foam protects the antenna

connector.

Follow these steps to unpack the outdoor access point:

Step 1 Open the shipping container and carefully remove the contents.

Step 2 Return all packing materials to the shipping container and save it.

Step 3 Ensure that all items listed in the “Package Contents” section are included in the shipment. If any item

is damaged or missing, notify your authorized Cisco sales representative.