User's Manual

Extended Range Amplified WLAN System Guide
Version 07/18/02
Table 1-1 and Table 1-2 list the following antenna types:
•
Omni-directional antennas have a 360-degree coverage pattern on a horizontal plane for
multipoint and mobile applications where wide coverage is desired.
•
Directional antennas (Patch, Grid, Dish) concentrate the coverage pattern in one direction. This
produces a conical-shaped main lobe. The antenna directionality is specified by the angle of the
beam width. Typical beam width angles are from 90 degrees (somewhat directional), to as little
as 20 degrees (very directional). The directed beam allows for a longer but narrower coverage
pattern, which is ideal for elongated areas, corners, and outdoor point-to-point applications.
Calculating Range:
For an unobstructed outdoor site, each 1dB increase in gain results in a range increase of approximately
5%. The coverage pattern may vary depending on the amount and type of obstructions at the site.
Positioning antennas:
The proper positioning (orientation) of antennas at a site helps ensure the maximum coverage area.
Antenna should generally be mounted as high and as clear of obstructions as practically possible. Best
performance is attained when both transmitting and receiving antenna are located at the same height and
in a direct line of sight of each other. Access Points should be positioned on or close to the ceiling.
Place omni-directional antennas in the center of the coverage area when possible. When ceiling mounted,
try to keep antennas at least two feet from sprinkler heads, metal lighting fixtures, etc.
For directional antennas, point at the direction of the coverage area. All antenna characteristics are the
same for both transmit and receive. For outdoor mounting of antennas note that the coaxial RF cable
should be kept as short as possible to minimize RF loss - the length of cable that comes with the antenna
is optimized. Use coaxial cable extensions if needed, available on our accessories
page - however,
placing the Access Point close to the antenna and bringing the Ethernet cable to the Access Point is
preferred.
Please review the variety of optional antennas that are available at Accessories and Spare Parts
.
Teletronics offers several omni-directional and directional antenna to provide for optimum coverage and
performance.
5 Post Installation Testing
5.1 Basic System Operational Checks
Basic system operational checks are performed using the system diagnostic LED indicators on the Cisco
Aironet and DC Injector module devices. Power on the fixed site network, and all wireless LAN system
devices and verify the following: