9
Cisco Aironet 14-dBi Vertically Polarized Sector Antenna (AIR-ANT2414S-R)
78-16403-01
The goal when positioning a directional antenna is to align the local antenna for maximum received
signal strength using the LED indications. The LEDs are convenient and easy to use. Normally, you
observe a single large peak as you pan the antenna across the signal path. Think of the receive signal as
a target (see
Figure 4
).
Figure 4
Signal Strength Target
The target consists of concentric rings, with the strongest signal at the center and a progressively weaker
signal at the outer rings. As you scan across the signal, you should observe the strong signal level when
the antenna is properly aligned. If a vertical adjustment is required, look for the strong signal level as
you tilt the antenna through its range.
Positioning the Antenna Using LED Indications
You can position the integrated antenna or a directional external antenna using the LEDs only after the
bridge successfully associates with the remote bridge. In installation mode, the Install LED is continuous
amber or green when the bridge has successfully associated. For the first 20 seconds following
association, the bridge reads the received signal strength indication (RSSI) levels from the received
packets and records the maximum value. After 20 seconds, the Ethernet, status, and radio LEDs on the
bridge indicate relative RSSI readings (see
Table 1
) compared to the maximum recorded during the
initial 20 seconds.
1
Weak signal level
3
Strong signal level
2
Moderate signal level
Horizontal
Vertical
1
2
3
116837
Table 1
Install Mode RSSI Display
Signal Level (dBm)
Ethernet LED
Status LED
Radio LED
–44 or stronger
On
On
On
–47 to –44
Fast blink
1
On
On
–50 to –47
Medium blink
2
On
On
–53 to –50
Slow blink
3
On
On
–54 to –53
Off
On
On
–57 to –54
Off
Fast blink
On
