COMPANY CONFIDENTIAL
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3.5.1.2 Setup Instructions
This mode requires a different configuration file in the root AP and in the repeater. The root AP is responsible for the
main “distribution” of the data packets. Each repeater will pass packets to its associated STA clients. Note that a station
will associate with the AP with the strongest signal – associating to the Root AP is allowed. Ensure you are using hard
wired connections if you are trying to force a specific configuration.
Also note that the IP addresses of the root AP and the repeater must be different, but on the same subnet. DHCP should
be enabled on only one of the routers (the root AP), or on a separate device attached to the network. Finally, both units
must have the same SSID to form a single BSS. If you want to specify a specific channel or SSID for the setup, ensure
you include all required environmental variable definitions (e.g. AP_SSID, AP_PRIMARY_CH, AP_CHMODE) before
you start apup.
Configuring the Root AP
The following will set up a root AP using the default SSID on channel 6.
# export AP_STARTMODE=rootap
# apup
Configuring the repeater
The following will set up a repeater using the default SSID on channel 6.
# export AP_STARTMODE=repeater
# apup
Ensure both systems are set up prior to starting the APs. The Root AP and the repeater can be started in any order.
Ensure the clients for a system under test associate with the repeater by either using a “hard wired” air interface, ensuring
the repeater signal is greater than the Root AP signal at the clients, or by using a hardware “air” interface.
3.5.2 AP with Multiple Repeaters
This is the extended version of the previous configuration. Multiple repeaters can be associated with a single Root AP,
providing a larger coverage area. This type of configuration is designed to be used in situations where the two repeater
stations do not “see” each other, therefore there is typically no link between the repeaters themselves – all traffic goes
through the Root AP. Testing should be accomplished in the same manner – the two repeaters should not “see” each
other.
