![background image](http://html1.mh-extra.com/html/amx/nxa-wapzd1000/nxa-wapzd1000_operation-reference-manual_2937893144.webp)
Smart Mesh Networking Best Practices
140
NXA-WAPZD1000 ZoneDirector Smart WLAN Controller
provide coverage in areas that are hard to wire, therefore the ideal may not be possible. Evenly
spaced Root APs are preferable as far as is possible.
If the customer's network utilizes a wireless backhaul technology for broadband access, it is
recommended to not mount the broadband wireless modem right next to an AP. A distance of 10
feet or more would be desirable.
Signal Quality Verification
The above guidelines for planning will result in a well-designed mesh. However, it is advisable to place the
APs in the planned locations temporarily using a tripod stand or other means, and actually checking the Signal
Quality throughout the mesh network. In addition, once the mesh is deployed, the Signal Quality should be
periodically monitored to make sure the mesh is operating optimally. Signal Quality is a measurement of the
link quality of the MAP's uplink, and is available on the Browser-Based Configuration Pages.
To view the Signal parameter in the Browser-Based Configuration Pages:
1.
Go to Monitor > Access Points, and click on the Mesh AP being tested (click the MAC address) to see
the Access Point detail screen (FIG. 7).
Two best practice observations should be met:
Ensure Signal >= 25%: The Signal value under Neighbor APs that shows “Connected” should be
25% or better. If it is lower, you need to bring the AP closer, or move it to avoid an obstruction,
such that the Signal value becomes 25% or better. For a more conservative design, you may use
35% as your Signal benchmark.
Ensure Minimum 2 Uplink options for every MAP: In addition, under Neighbor APs, it is best
practice that there exists an alternate path for this mesh uplink. This alternate path should also have
a Signal of 25% or better. Stated differently, there should be at least 2 possible links that the MAP
can use for uplink, and both should have a Signal value of 25% or better. For a more conservative
design, you may use 35% as your Signal benchmark.
Mounting and Orientation of APs
ZoneFlex APs are very tolerant to a variety of mounting and orientation options due to Ruckus Wireless' use of
its unique BeamFlex technology, in which the RF signal is dynamically concentrated and focused towards the
other end of the RF link.
The bottom line regarding orientation and placement is that during the planning phase, it is advisable to use the
Signal Quality as your benchmark,. Ensure that the Signal is better than 25% for trouble-free operation.
For additional mounting details, please also consult the Quick Setup Guide and the Wall and Ceiling Mounting
Instructions that came in the AP box.
Indoor APs - Typical Case: Horizontal Orientation
ZoneFlex indoor APs are typically oriented such that the top of the AP is pointing either straight up or straight
down.
Indoor APs - Vertical Orientation
A less typical vertical orientation may be used in certain cases where it is not possible for mechanical or
aesthetic reasons to use the typical orientation. In such cases, indoor APs may also be wall mounted vertically.
Outdoor APs - Typical Horizontal Orientation
Outdoor APs are typically mounted in a horizontal orientation. A less typical orientation would be vertically
mounted.
Elevation of RAPs and MAPs
In addition to orientation, it is important to also pay attention to the elevation of an AP for reliable mesh
operation. More specifically, large differences in elevation should be avoided. So whether you are deploying an
indoor mesh, an outdoor mesh, or a mixed indoor-outdoor mesh, you should ensure that as far as convenient
and possible, MAPs and RAPs should all be at a similar elevation from the ground. For example, for an indoor-
outdoor mesh, if all your indoor RAPs and MAPs are at ceiling height (standard 15-foot ceiling), then you
would not want to mount the outdoor MAPs on 40-foot poles. You would want to keep all MAPs and RAPs at
around the same elevation from the ground.
Summary of Contents for NXA-WAPZD1000
Page 4: ......
Page 12: ...viii NXA WAPZD1000 ZoneDirector Smart WLAN Controller Table of Contents ...
Page 16: ...Introduction 12 NXA WAPZD1000 ZoneDirector Smart WLAN Controller ...
Page 130: ...Blocking Client Devices 126 NXA WAPZD1000 ZoneDirector Smart WLAN Controller ...
Page 146: ...Smart Mesh Networking Best Practices 142 NXA WAPZD1000 ZoneDirector Smart WLAN Controller ...
Page 153: ...Troubleshooting 149 NXA WAPZD1000 ZoneDirector Smart WLAN Controller ...