HP 501 Wireless Client Bridge V1.0.0.0 Configuration and Administration Guide

Wireless range 21
3 Wireless configuration
Wireless range
At high power, the HP 501 can communicate with APs that are up to about 300 feet away. The
achievable range can vary widely depending on the antenna selected, the radio mode, and
environmental and other circumstances.
The following factors can affect wireless performance:
• Radio power: More radio power means better signal quality and the ability to create
bigger wireless cells. However, cell size should generally not exceed the range of
transmission supported by client stations. If it does, wireless clients (such as the HP 501)
can receive signals from the AP, but might not be able to reply, rendering the connection
useless.
Governmental regulations in different parts of the world determine the maximum power
output of the HP 501 radio.
• Antenna configuration: Antennas play an important role in determining the shape of
the wireless cell and transmission distance. Consult the specifications for the antennas you
are using to determine how they affect wireless coverage.
• Interference: Interference is caused by other APs or devices (cordless phones,
microwaves) that operate in the same 2.4 GHz frequency band as the HP 501 when it is
set to a 2.4 GHz mode. Such interference can substantially affect throughput. A smaller,
but growing number of devices are potential sources of interference in the 5 GHz band.
Information provided by the management tool can help you diagnose interference
problems as they occur.
• Select Wireless > Neighborhood to view detailed information about all wireless
APs operating in the immediate area so that you can effectively set the operating
frequencies.
• Select Status > Wireless to view detailed information about packets sent and
received, transmission errors, and other low-level events.
• Physical characteristics of the location: Radio waves have a limited ability to
penetrate metal. The steel reinforcing found in concrete walls and floors can block
transmissions or reduce signal quality. However, the HP 501 is able to transmit through
wood or plaster walls and closed windows. To maximize the range of the wireless cell, the
HP 501 is best installed in an open area with as few obstructions as possible.