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2.1 Choosing the Best Location for Wireless Operation
Many environmental factors may affect the effective wireless function of the Router.
If this is the first time that you set up a wireless network device, read the following
information.
The access point can be placed on a shelf or desktop, ideally you should be able to
see the LED indicators in the front, as you may need to view them for
troubleshooting.
Designed to go up to 100 meters indoors and up to 300 meters outdoors, wireless
LAN lets you access your network from anywhere you want. However, the numbers
of walls, ceilings, or other objects that the wireless signals must pass through limit
signal range. Typical ranges vary depending on types of materials and background
RF noise in your home or business. For optimum range and signal strength, use
these basic guidelines.
Keep the numbers of walls and ceilings to the minimum:
The signal emitted from wireless LAN devices can penetrate through ceilings
and walls. However, each wall or ceiling can reduce the range of wireless
LAN devices from 1 ~ 30 miters. Position your wireless devices so that the
number of walls or ceilings obstructing the signal path is minimized.
Consider the direct line between access points and workstations:
A wall that is 0.5 meters thick, at a 45-degree angle appears to be almost 1
meter thick. At a 2-degree angle, it appears over 14 meters thick. Be careful
to position access points and client adapters so the signal can travel straight
through (90º angle) a wall or ceiling for better reception.
Building materials make difference:
Buildings constructed using metal framing or doors can reduce effective
range of the device. If possible, position wireless devices so that their
signals can pass through drywall or open doorways. Avoid positioning them
in the way that their signal must pass through metallic materials. Poured
concrete walls are reinforced with steel while cinderblock walls generally
have little or no structural steel.
Position the antenna for best reception:
Play around with the antenna position to see if signal strength improves.
Some adapters or access points allow you to judge the strength of the
signal.
Keep your product away (at least 1~2 meters) from electrical devices:
