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Figure 28.
Cisco Outdoor Bridge Range Calculation Utility.
Using the Outdoor Bridge Calculation Utility is simple to use, to get an idea how far the Bridge link
can go, simply select the different antennas and data rates. Since all Bridge links when using the
Bridge utility are Point to Point, when computing Point to Multi-Point links always compare the
Root Bridge to each remote or Non-Root site to determine distances.
Tip: Before actually performing a site survey or ordering equipment always take a few
moments to check your distances with the utility.
4.6 Site Survey
It is recommended that you perform a radio site survey prior to actually installing the equipment. A
site survey can flush out problems such as interference, Fresnel zone issues or logistics problems
with installing the Bridges. A proper site survey should involve temporarily setting up a Bridge link
and taking some measurements to determine if your antenna calculations proved accurate and that
you have picked the right location and antenna before you spend a lot of time drilling holes, routing
cables and mounting equipment.
Tip: When power is not readily available a UPS could be used to temporarily power the
Bridge Link for a short period of time to check the radio path.
Before attempting a site survey, you should have already determined the following.