Alvarion BreezeACCESS Wi2, System Manual

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Wireless Coverage
BreezeMAX Wi² and BreezeACCESS Wi² System Manual 97
6.1.2.2 Antenna Configuration
Antennas play a large role in determining the shape of the wireless cell and transmission distance.
Consult the specifications for the antennas you use to determine how they affect wireless coverage.
6.1.2.3 Interference
Interference is caused by other APs or devices that operate in the same frequency band as the AP
and can substantially affect throughput. Advanced wireless configuration features are available to
automatically eliminate this problem. For details, see “Radio Configuration” on page 106.
In addition, the several tools are available to diagnose interference problems as they occur.
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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 This wireless
neighborhood feature also makes it easy for you to find rogue APs. For more information see
“Conducting a Site Survey” on page 103 .
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Select Status > Wireless to view detailed information about packets sent and received,
transmission errors, and other low-level events.
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Select Status > Client data rate matrix to view information about data rates for all connected
client stations. This makes it easy to determine if low-speed clients are affecting network
performance. To prevent low-speed clients from connecting, you can use the Allowed wireless
rates option when defining a Virtual Network. For more information, see “Virtual AP” on
page 79.
6.1.2.4 Physical Characteristics of the Location
To maximize coverage of a wireless cell, wireless APs are best installed in an open area with as few
obstructions as possible. Try to choose a location that is central to the area being served.
Radio waves cannot penetrate metal; they are reflected instead. A wireless AP can transmit through
wood or plaster walls and closed windows; however, the steel reinforcing found in concrete walls
and floors may block transmissions or reduce signal quality by creating reflections. This can make it
difficult or impossible for a single AP to serve users on different floors in a concrete building. Such
installations require a separate wireless AP on each floor.
IMPORTANT
APs that operate in the 2.4 GHz band may experience interference from 2.4 GHz cordless phones
and microwave ovens.