3Com AirConnect 9550, User Manual

Page: 20 / 95

16 Deciding where to place your AP
Deciding where to place your AP
Place the AP in a dry, clean location near the hub, switch,
computer or printer that will be connected to the AP. The location
must have a power source and be within the following distance of
a Wi-Fi compliant wireless LAN access point or wireless access
point.
The key to maximizing the 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. The
location should be away from transformers, heavy-duty
motors, fluorescent lights, microwave ovens, refrigerators.
■
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