MRV Communications MRW55, User Manual

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3-1
Chapter 3: Bridge Link Planning
The Dual-band Outdoor Access Point / Bridge supports fixed point-to-point or
point-to-multipoint wireless links. A single link between two points can be used to
connect a remote site to larger core network. Multiple bridge links can provide a way
to connect widespread Ethernet LANs.
For each link in a wireless bridge network to be reliable and provide optimum
performance, some careful site planning is required. This chapter provides guidance
and information for planning your wireless bridge links.
Note: The planning and installation of the wireless bridge requires professional
personnel that are trained in the installation of radio transmitting equipment. The
user is responsible for compliance with local regulations concerning items such as
antenna power, use of lightning arrestors, grounding, and radio mast or tower
construction. Therefore, it is recommended to consult a professional contractor
knowledgeable in local radio regulations prior to equipment installation.
Data Rates
Using its 5 GHz integrated antenna, the MRW55 Slave bridge can operate over a
range of up to 15.4 km (9.6 miles) or provide a high-speed connection of 54 Mbps
(108 Mbps in turbo mode). However, the maximum data rate for a link decreases as
the operating range increases. A 15.4 km link can only operate up to 36 Mbps,
whereas a 108 Mbps connection is limited to a range of 1.2 km.
When you are planning each wireless bridge link, take into account the maximum
distance and data rates for the various antenna options. A summary for 5 GHz
(802.11a) antennas is provided in the following table. For full specifications for each
antenna, see “Antenna Specifications” on page B-3.
.
.
Distances Achieved Using Normal Mode
Data Rate 17 dBi
Integrated
8 dBi Omni 13.5 dBi
120-Degree
Sector
16.5 dBi
60-Degree
Sector
23 dBi Panel
6 Mbps 14 km 3.3 km 10.3 km 14 km 24.4 km
9 Mbps 13.4 km 2.9 km 9.2 km 13.4 km 23.3 km
12 Mbps 12.8 km 2.6 km 8.2 km 12.8 km 22.2 km
18 Mbps 11.7 km 2.1 km 6.5 km 11.7 km 20.3 km
24 Mbps 9.2 km 1.5 km 4.6 km 9.2 km 17.7 km
36 Mbps 5.2 km 0.8 km 2.6 km 5.2 km 14 km