Alvarion Technologies EAP-11AMP Roof Mounted Spread Spectrum Transmission System User Manual BRZN11

Alvarion Ltd. Roof Mounted Spread Spectrum Transmission System BRZN11

Contents

Manual

BreezeNET PRO.11 Series Outdoor Bridge User’s Guide (for models using AMP2400S-250/500) October, 2000 Cat. No. 213034 Revision 2
Disclaimer: The diagrams in this manual are for illustrative purposes only. They should not be confused with the transceiver operating in a standalone mode. When these diagrams are in use, the transceiver will be installed in conjunction with amp model AMP-2400S-250/500 and the antennas listed in Table 1. © 2000 by BreezeCOM Ltd. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any material form without the written permission of the copyright owner. Trade Names BreezeNET and BreezeLINK are trade names of BreezeCOM Ltd. Other brand and product names are registered trademarks or trademarks of their respective companies.
Statement of Conditions The information contained in this manual is subject to change without notice. BreezeCOM Ltd. shall not be liable for errors contained herein or for incidental or consequential damages in connection with the furnishing, performance, or use of this manual or equipment supplied with it. Warranty In the following warranty text, “the Company” shall mean: - BreezeCOM Inc., for products located in the USA. - BreezeCOM Ltd., for products located outside the USA. This BreezeNET product is warranted against defects in material and workmanship for a period of one year. During this warranty period the Company will, at its option, either repair or replace products that prove to be defective. For warranty service or repair, the product must be returned to a service facility designated by the Company. Authorization to return products must be obtained prior to shipment. The buyer shall pay all shipping charges to the Company and the Company shall pay shipping charges to return the product to the buyer. The Company warrants that the firmware designed by it for use with the unit will execute its programming instructions when properly installed on the unit. The Company does not warrant that the operation of the unit or firmware will be uninterrupted or error-free. Limitation of Warranty The foregoing warranty shall not apply to defects resulting from improper or inadequate maintenance by the buyer, buyer supplied interfacing, unauthorized modification or misuse, operation outside of the environmental specifications for the product, or improper site preparation or maintenance. No other warranty is expressed or implied. The Company specifically disclaims the implied warranties of merchantability and fitness for any particular purpose. Electronic Emission Notices This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC rules, ETSI 300-328, UL, UL/C, TUV/GS, and CE. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: 1. This device may not cause harmful interference. 2. This device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation. "Professional Installers Only : Detached antennas should be installed ONLY by experienced antenna installation professionals who arefamiliar with local building and safety codes and, wherever applicable, are licensed by the appropriate government regulatory authorities. Failure to do so may void the BreezeNET product warranty and may expose the end user to excessive Radio Frequency hazard that may bring legal and financial liabilities." "Regulations regarding maximum antenna gains, amplifier power gain, and maximum permissible expose vary from country to country. It is the responsibility of the end user to operate within the
limits of these regulations and to ensure that only professional installers install this device that are aware of these regulations and trained or recommended by Breezecom, as well. " FCC Radiation Exposure Statement i) This equipment complies with FCC radiation exposure limits set forth for an uncontrolled environment when installed as directed. This equipment should be installed and operated with fix-mounted antennas that are installed with a minimum of 2 meters of separation distance between the antenna and all persons body during normal operation and the antennas as shown below: Antenna Type Gain (dBi) EIRP (mW) Amp Peak output Power (mW) Minimum RF Exposure Separation Distance (m) Uni Grid 24 24 831.8 208.9 2 Uni Patch 16 16 446.7 208.9 2 Uni Patch 16 16 955.0 446.7 2 Uni Patch 11 11 309.0 208.9 2 Uni Patch 11 11 660.7 446.7 2 Uni Patch 9 9 263.0 208.9 2 Uni Patch 9 9 562.3 446.7 2 Omni 8 8 1318.3 208.9 2 Omni 8 8 2818.4 446.7 2 WARNING: It is the responsibility of the professional installer to ensure that when using the outdoor antenna kits in the United States (or where FCC rules apply), only these antenna configurations shown in the table in section 1.4 are used. The use of any antenna other than those listed is expressly forbidden in accordance to FCC rules CFR47 part 15.204.Information to User Any changes or modifications of equipment not expressly approved by the manufacturer could void the user’s authority to operate the equipment and the company’s warranty.
CONTACTING BREEZECOM TECHNICAL SUPPORT Should you need assistance beyond the scope of this guide, please contact your local BreezeCOM reseller or distributor. If they cannot solve your problem, feel free to contact the BreezeCOM Technical Support Department. The support representatives can assist you in solving any problems that cannot be solved by your reseller. When requesting support, please have the following items available: • Configuration of the system, including models of the BreezeCOM equipment used. • Antenna type and cable lengths. • Site information such as, possible radio path problems (trees, machines, and buildings). • Distance between devices. • Configuration, statistic counters, and error messages, as seen on the monitor. • Description of problems encountered. To contact BreezeCOM Technical Support, refer to the Technical Support page of the BreezeCOM website: www.breezecom.com
Introduction To The BreezeNET PRO.11 Series BreezeNET PRO.11 Series 1-1 User’s Guide TABLE OF CONTENTS 1. Introduction To The BreezeNET PRO.11 Series.......................................1-4 1.1. How to Use This Guide............................................................................1-4 1.2. BreezeNET PRO.11 Series Features........................................................1-5 1.2.1. Access Point .................................................................................1-6 1.2.2. Workgroup Bridge........................................................................1-7 1.3. Extending Range with the AMP2400S ....................................................1-8 Antenna Selection............................................................................................1-9 1.5. BreezeNET PRO.11 Functional Description..........................................1-10 2. Basic Installation...........................................................................................2-1 2.1. Basic Installation Checklist......................................................................2-1 2.2. Check the Package List ............................................................................2-1 2.3. Position the Unit.......................................................................................2-2 2.3.1. Additional Considerations When Positioning the Access Point...2-3 2.4. Connect the Unit to the Power Supply.....................................................2-3 2.5. Connect the Unit to the Ethernet Port......................................................2-4 2.6. Check Unit Functionality using LED indicators......................................2-5 2.6.1. Station (SA-10, SA-40) and Bridge (WB-10) LEDs....................2-5 2.6.2. Access Point LEDs .......................................................................2-6 2.6.3. Verifying the Ethernet Connection...............................................2-6 3. Device Setup and Management ....................................................................3-1 3.1. Accessing and Using Local Terminal Management.................................3-1 3.2. Configuration Screens .............................................................................3-2 3.3. Main Menu.............................................................................................3-45 3.4. System Configuration Menu ..................................................................3-56 3.4.1. Station Status ..............................................................................3-57 3.4.2. IP and SNMP Parameters ........................................................... 3-68 3.4.3. Wireless LAN (WLAN) Parameters...........................................3-78 3.4.4. Bridging....................................................................................3-911 3.4.5. Station Control........................................................................3-1012 3.4.6. Security..................................................................................3-1112 3.5. Advanced Settings Menu....................................................................3-1213 3.5.1. Translation Mode (read-only).................................................3-1314 3.5.2. Roaming (read-only)...............................................................3-1314 3.5.3. Performance............................................................................3-1315 3.5.4. Radio.......................................................................................3-1517 3.5.5. Rate.........................................................................................3-1617 3.5.6. AP Redundancy Support (read-only) .....................................3-1618
Introduction To The BreezeNET PRO.11 Series BreezeNET PRO.11 Series 1-2 User’s Guide 3.5.7. Maintenance............................................................................3-1618 3.6. Site Survey Menu...............................................................................3-1719 3.6.1. System Counters....................................................................3-1819 3.6.2. Survey Software ....................................................................3-2223 3.6.3. Event Log..............................................................................3-2224 3.6.4. Display Neighboring AP’s.....................................................3-2224 3.6.5. Using the Site Survey Software..............................................3-2325 3.6.6. Using the Rx Packets per Frequency Histogram....................3-2628 3.7. Access Control Menu.........................................................................3-2729 4. Planning and Installing Wireless LANs ......................................................5-2 4.1. System Configurations .............................................................................5-2 4.1.1. Single Cell Configuration.............................................................5-3 4.1.2. Overlapping Cell Configuration...................................................5-7 4.1.3. Multicell Configuration................................................................5-9 4.1.4. Multi-hop Configuration (Relay)................................................5-11 4.2. Outdoor Installation Considerations.......................................................5-13 4.2.1. Site Selection Factors .................................................................5-13 4.2.2. Rooftop Installation....................................................................5-14 4.2.3. Antennas for Outdoor Applications............................................5-14 4.2.4. Antenna Seal...............................................................................5-16 4.2.5. Cell Size......................................................................................5-16 4.2.6. Link Distance..............................................................................5-17 4.2.7. Using Outdoor Range Tables .....................................................5-17 4.3. Precautions .............................................................................................5-18 4.3.1. Professional Installers Only........................................................5-18 4.3.2. Transmit Antenna Gain..............................................................5-18 4.3.3. Spurious Radio Frequency Emissions ...........Error! Bookmark not defined.-Error! Bookmark not defined. 4.3.4. Lightning Protection...................................................................5-18 4.3.5. Rain Proofing..............................................................................5-19 5. Accessory Installation...................................................................................6-1 5.2 AL 1 Lightning Arrestor...........................................................................6-1 6. Upgrade Procedure .......................................................................................7-1 7. System Troubleshooting................................................................................8-1 8.1. Troubleshooting Guide.............................................................................8-1 8.2. Checking Counters ...................................................................................8-3 8.2.1. WLAN Counters..........................................................................8-3 8.2.2. Ethernet Counters ........................................................................ 8-3
Introduction To The BreezeNET PRO.11 Series BreezeNET PRO.11 Series 1-3 User’s Guide 8. Appendix 9-1 8.1. Supported MIBs and Traps.......................................................................9-1 8.1.1. Supported MIBs............................................................................9-1 8.1.2. Supported Traps............................................................................9-2 8.2. Technical Specifications...........................................................................9-3 8.2.1. Specifications for BreezeNET PRO.11 Units...............................9-3 8.2.2. Specifications for AL 1 Lightning Arrestor .................................9-5 8.3. Wireless LAN Concepts...........................................................................9-6 8.4. Radio Signal Propagation.......................................................................9-12 8.4.1. Introduction................................................................................9-12 8.4.2. RF Terms and Definitions ..........................................................9-13 8.5. IEEE 802.11 Technical Tutorial.............................................................9-20 8.5.1. Architecture Components ...........................................................9-20 8.5.2. IEEE 802.11 Layers Description................................................9-21 8.5.3. The MAC Layer..........................................................................9-22 8.5.4. How Does a Station Join an Existing Cell (BSS)?.....................9-28 8.5.5. Roaming......................................................................................9-28 8.5.6. Keeping Synchronization...........................................................9-29 8.5.7. Security.......................................................................................9-29 8.5.8. Power Saving..............................................................................9-30 8.5.9. Frame Types ...............................................................................9-31 8.5.10. Frame Formats............................................................................9-31 8.5.11. Most Common Frame Formats...................................................9-36 8.5.12. Point Coordination Function (PCF)............................................9-38 8.5.13. Ad-hoc Networks........................................................................9-38 General Product Description ............................................................................9-1 Cable Length vs. Output Power ......................................................................9-1 Installation and Mounting ...............................................................................9-2 Amplifier Connections and Indicators ............................................................9-2 DC Power Injector Connections and Indicators..............................................9-3 Power Supply ..................................................................................................9-3 Operation.........................................................................................................9-3 Specifications ..................................................................................................9-3 UNI-DIRECTIONAL ANTENNAS VS EUT AMP POWER OUTPUT SETTING 9-6
Introduction To The BreezeNET PRO.11 Series BreezeNET PRO.11 Series 1-4 User’s Guide 1. INTRODUCTION TO THE BREEZENET PRO.11 SERIES This chapter explains how to use this guide, presents the members of the BreezeNET PRO.11 Series, describes the benefits of BreezeNET PRO.11 Wireless LANs, and lists the product specifications. 1.1. How to Use This Guide This User’s Guide contains instructions for overall planning and setting up your wireless LAN, and provides details of how to install each unit, and how to install antennas and accessories. This guide contains the following chapters: • Chapter 1 Introduction – Explains how to use this guide and presents the members of the BreezeNET PRO.11 Series. • Chapter 2 Basic Installation – Details how to install most BreezeNET PRO.11 Series units. • Chapter 3 Device Setup and Management – Describes how to use the local terminal to setup, configure, and manage BreezeNET PRO.11 Series units. • Chapter 4 Planning and Installing Wireless LANs – Provides guidelines and restrictions regarding antenna selection and installation, and includes outdoor antenna range tables. • Chapter 6 Upgrade Procedure – Explains how to perform future upgrades for BreezeNET PRO.11 Series units using a TFTP application. • Chapter 7 System Troubleshooting – Contains a troubleshooting guide that provides answers to some of the more common problems which may occur when installing and using BreezeNET PRO.11 Series products. • Chapter 8 Appendix – This appendix lists MIBs, and traps supported by BreezeNET PRO.11 Series products, lists product and attachment specifications, provides an overview of the concepts related to wireless LANs, discusses the concepts and applications of radio signal propagation relevant to wireless LANs, and introduces the new 802.11 standard.
Introduction To The BreezeNET PRO.11 Series BreezeNET PRO.11 Series 1-5 User’s Guide 1.2. BreezeNET PRO.11 Series Features Following is a partial list of the features in the BreezeNET PRO.11 Series: • IEEE 802.11 Compliant – All BreezeNET PRO.11 Series units are fully compliant with the final IEEE 802.11 specification for wireless LANs, and thus support interoperability with other 802.11 compliant vendors. • Fully integrated product family – One high-performance Access Point for all products in the series. • Increased Throughput – Up to 2 Mbps data throughput; the best figure in the market! • Translation Bridging – Support for both translation and transparent bridging as defined in the IEEE 802.1.h and RFC 1042 standards. • Seamless Roaming – Network connection is maintained while roaming between overlapping coverage areas. Transmission and reception can be continued while moving at high speeds with no data packet loss or duplication. • Load Sharing – Traffic is equally distributed among all Access Points in the area. • Redundancy – In co-located cell environments, upon failure of an Access Point, stations will switch to other available Access Points. • LED Display – Power, Network Activity, and WLAN Load or Signal Quality LEDs indicate the current status of the unit. • Upgrading – Simple, quick, and free software upgrades via TFTP. • Future-proof Investment – All “infrastructure” items in the PRO.11 Series line offer Flash updates.
Introduction To The BreezeNET PRO.11 Series BreezeNET PRO.11 Series 1-6 User’s Guide 1.2.1. Access Point The Access Point is fully compliant with the IEEE 802.11 wireless LAN standard. The BreezeNET Access Point is a wireless hub that provides access for wireless workstations into wired Ethernet LANs. It also contains a wireless coordinating function which enables workstations equipped with a Station Adapter (Station Adapter, Bridge) to communicate with one another inside the cell coverage area (even if they are not in direct line of sight) via the Access Point. Any two wireless stations in two different cells can communicate through their Access Points. Disclaimer: This diagram is for illustrative purposes only. It should not be confused with the transceiver operating in a standalone mode. When this diagram is in use, the transceiver will be used in conjunction with amp model AMP-2400S-250/500 and the antennas listed in this manual. Mobile workstations, such as laptops and hand-held devices, can roam between Access Points that belong to the same Extended Service Set (ESS). In an Extended Service Set, all Access Points have the same ESSID. When the access points are set up so that their coverage areas overlap, users can roam seamlessly from cell to cell. This means that there is no interruption of network connection when moving from one coverage area to the other through the overlap and is completely transparent to the user and the applications. The Station Adapters decide when a mobile user becomes disassociated from one access point and associated with another. This process is fully transparent, requires no user intervention and involves no loss of data packets. Position multiple access points in locations where heavy network traffic is expected to create a multicell and increase the aggregate throughput capacity in areas where it is needed most. The system implements a Load
Introduction To The BreezeNET PRO.11 Series BreezeNET PRO.11 Series 1-7 User’s Guide Balancing algorithm to divide the stations equally between the available co-located Access Points. The BreezeNET Access Point contains an embedded SNMP agent enabling effective management by BreezeVIEW or any standard SNMP management station. Software upgrades can be downloaded by TFTP protocol via the wired LAN or wireless LAN. 1.2.2. Workgroup Bridge The BreezeNET Workgroup Bridge is a high-speed, wide-range wireless LAN bridge that provides connectivity to remote Ethernet networks. Figure 1.1: WB-10D PRO.11 with Two External Antenna Connector Ports Disclaimer: This diagram is for illustrative purposes only. It should not be confused with the transceiver operating in a standalone mode. When this diagram is in use, the transceiver will be used in conjunction with amp model AMP-2400S-250/500 and the antennas listed in this manual. The Workgroup Bridge communicates with the BreezeNET Access Points of the remote LANs effectively creating an extended wireless network spanning sites situated up to 6 miles apart (in Europe this range is limited by ETSI regulations to 2.5 Km.). In this way a central Ethernet LAN may be connected with one or more branch office LANs. In addition, an island consisting of a Workgroup Bridge together with an Access Point can work as a relay. Transmissions from the central LAN and from the remote LAN are relayed via the island located between them. This configuration effectively doubles bridge range.
Introduction To The BreezeNET PRO.11 Series BreezeNET PRO.11 Series 1-8 User’s Guide orkstations that can be connected to the wireless LAN include PCs, X-Terminals, Digital, SUN, HP, IBM, and Apple computers, and any other device that supports Ethernet. The unit is transparent to the workgroup devices’ hardware, software, and network operating system. The BreezeNET Workgroup Bridge contains an embedded SNMP agent and software downloading capabilities enabling effective management. Software upgrades are downloaded using TFTP protocol via the Ethernet ports or via the wireless LAN and Access Point. 1.3. Extending Range with the AMP2400S To extend the range of the AP10-D or WB-10D, the AMP2400S-250 or AMP2400S-500 is used. These devices amplify the RF output and receive power to allow long range connections or connections with longer cable runs. The diagram below shows a typical installation of the BreezeNet and AMP2400S. (See the addendum at the end of this manual for instructions on how to install the AMP2400S). BREEZECOM AMPLIFIER INSTALLATION DETAILS
Introduction To The BreezeNET PRO.11 Series BreezeNET PRO.11 Series 1-9 User’s Guide 1.4. Antenna Selection The AMP2400S and the BreezeNET radio modem must be professionally installed. Table (1) shows the FCC approved configuration of the AMP2400S, BreezeNET Radio and antenna configurations. WARNING: It is the responsibility of the installer to ensure that when used in the United States (or where FCC rules apply), only these configurations are used. The use of any antenna other than those listed below is expressly forbidden in accordance to FCC rules CFR47 part 15.204. 1.4.1.1 Table (1) FCC Type Acceptance Configurations Radio Equipment UNI-24 24 dBi Grid UNI-16 16 dBi Panel UNI-11 11 dBi Panel UNI-9 9 dBi Panel Omni-8 8 dBi Omni BreezeNET PRO.11 with Amp2400S-250 X X X X X BreezeNET PRO.11 with Amp2400S-500 X X X X
Introduction To The BreezeNET PRO.11 Series BreezeNET PRO.11 Series 1-10 User’s Guide 1.5. BreezeNET PRO.11 Functional Description BreezeNET PRO.11 units add wireless functionality to existing Ethernet LANs. 1.5.1. Quick Review of Ethernet Standard Ethernet LAN stations are wired to a common bus. When one of the stations sends a message, it assigns a destination address to the message and sends the message on the bus. All stations on the bus “hear” the message, but only the station with the proper address processes the message. 1.5.2. Startup Procedure When wireless units (other than AP-10) start up, they scan the frequencies for an AP-10. If an active AP-10 is in range, the units synchronize with it. The addresses associated with the units are registered in the AP-10 (the registration process is different for each unit type). From then on, the units can send and receive messages to and from the wired LAN. 1.5.3. AP-10 Access Point The AP-10 Access Point is connected to a wired Ethernet LAN, and it keeps a list of known stations on its wireless side. When an AP-10 “hears” a message that is destined for a wireless station, the AP-10 forwards the message wirelessly to the station. If the message has a destination address that the AP-10 does not recognize, the AP-10 ignores the message. The AP-10 is constantly “listening” for wireless messages as well. When the AP-10 “hears” a wireless message destined for another wireless unit, it relays the message directly to the wireless unit without forwarding the message to the wired LAN. When the AP-10 “hears” a wireless message whose destination it does not recognize (since it does not keep a list of known stations on its wired side), it forwards the message to the wired LAN. Messages cannot be sent directly between wireless stations without an AP-10 to relay the message.
Introduction To The BreezeNET PRO.11 Series BreezeNET PRO.11 Series 1-11 User’s Guide 1.5.4. SA-10 Station Adapter The SA-10 station adapter is connected to a station’s network card. When the station sends a message, the SA-10 wirelessly forwards it to the AP-10. And when the AP-10 receives a message destined for the station, it wirelessly forwards the message to the SA-10. The first time the station sends a message, the station’s address is registered in the AP-10. The AP-10 keeps only the first address for each SA-10, so the SA-10 will not work properly if connected to more than one station. 1.5.5. SA-40 Station Adapter The SA-40 station adapter has four connectors for up to four stations and works just like the SA-10. As each station connected to the SA-40 sends its first message, each address is registered in the AP-10. The AP-10 keeps only up to four addresses for each SA-40, so the SA-40 will not work properly if connected to more than four stations. 1.5.6. WB-10 Wireless Bridge As opposed to the SA-10 and SA-40 that connect directly to stations, the WB-10 wireless bridge connects to a wired Ethernet LAN (Hub). When a station on the WB-10’s LAN sends a message that is not destined for a local station, the WB-10 wirelessly forwards the message to the AP-10. And when the AP-10 receives a message destined for a station on the WB-10s LAN, the AP-10 wirelessly forwards it to the WB-10. In this way, the WB-10 and AP-10 work together like a standard network bridge. The first time each station on the WB-10’s LAN sends a message, the station’s address is registered in the WB-10 and the AP-10. The WB-10 and AP-10 can hold all the addresses necessary to support an entire LAN connected to a WB-10.
Basic Installation BreezeNET PRO.11 Series 2-1 User’s Guide 2. BASIC INSTALLATION The BreezeNET PRO.11 Series is a plug-and-play solution, and the units begin to function when the following basic installation is complete. However, you can adapt the system to your particular needs using the local terminal (see Chapter 3). For a description of various overall system configurations, refer to Chapter 4. 2.1. Basic Installation Checklist Standard installation involves the following steps: • Check the Package List. • Position the unit and the antenna in the best location. • Connect the power supply to the unit. • Connect the Ethernet port to the unit. • Check unit functionality using the LED indicators. 2.2. Check the Package List When you first open the package, verify that the unit is complete with the following components: • The unit, complete with two RF connectors for use with external antennas (“D” models). • Quick Installation Guide/Card. • 5V DC power supply transformer. • Mounting bracket for wall or ceiling installations and torque key for antenna connectors (supplied with "D" models).
Basic Installation BreezeNET PRO.11 Series 2-2 User’s Guide The AP-10 PRO.11 Access Point comes with the following additional components: • The BreezeNET PRO.11 Series User’s Guide. • A monitor connector cable for connecting the units to a monitor in order to perform Local Terminal Management functions (see section 3.1). • Proprietary MIB disk for performing remote unit configuration and monitoring via SNMP (see section 8.1.1). Open the packaging carefully and make sure that none of the items listed above are missing. Do not discard packaging materials. If, for any reason, the unit is returned, it must be shipped in its original package. 2.3. Position the Unit BreezeNET PRO.11 wireless LAN products are robust, trouble-free units, designed to operate efficiently under a wide range of conditions. The following guidelines are provided to help you position the units to ensure optimum coverage and operation of the wireless LAN. Metal Furniture Position the units clear of metal furniture and away from moving objects such as metal fans or doors. Microwave Ovens For best performance, position the units clear of radiation sources that emit in the 2.4 GHz frequency band, such as microwave ovens. Antennas For models with integrated antennas, make sure the antennas are extended upward vertically in relation to the floor. For models with external antennas, connect the external antennas and RF cable. For information about external antenna installation, refer to section 4.2
Basic Installation BreezeNET PRO.11 Series 2-3 User’s Guide Outdoor Installation Considerations. Heat Sources Keep the units well away from sources of heat, such as radiators, air-conditioners, etc. 2.3.1. Additional Considerations When Positioning the Access Point When positioning the AP-10 PRO.11 and AP-10DE Access Points, take into account the following additional considerations. Height Install the Access Point at least 1.5m above the floor, clear of any high office partitions or tall pieces of furniture in the coverage area. The Access Point can be placed on a high shelf, or can be attached to the ceiling or a wall using a mounting bracket. Central Location Install the Access Point in a central location in the intended coverage area. Good positions are: • In the center of a large room. • In the center of a corridor. • At the intersection of two corridors. Many modern buildings have partitions constructed of metal or containing metal components. We recommend that you install the Access Points on the corridor ceilings. The radio waves propagated by the BreezeNET PRO.11 LAN are reflected along the metal partitions and enter the offices through the doors or glass sections. 2.4. Connect the Unit to the Power Supply The unit operates on a power input of 5V DC, (1200mA , 1500mA peak) supplied by the power transformer included with the unit.
Basic Installation BreezeNET PRO.11 Series 2-4 User’s Guide • Plug the output jack of the power transformer into the DC input socket on the unit. This socket may be located on the rear or side panel of the unit. • Connect the supplied power transformer to a power outlet - 110/ 220VAC. 2.5. Connect the Unit to the Ethernet Port • Connect one end of a an Ethernet 10BaseT cable (not supplied) to the RJ-45 port on the rear panel of the unit (marked UTP). • Connect the other end of the connector cable to the Ethernet outlet: • When connecting an SA-10 or SA-40 to a PC, use a straight cable. • When connecting an AP-10 or WB-10 to a LAN, use a straight cable. • When connecting an AP-10 or WB-10 to a PC, use a crossed cable. • When connecting an AP-10 to a WB-10, use a crossed cable.
Basic Installation BreezeNET PRO.11 Series 2-5 User’s Guide 2.6. Check Unit Functionality using LED indicators Check the unit functionality by using the LEDs on the front panel. The following tables describe the front panel LEDs for Stations (SA-10, SA-40) and Bridges (WB-10), and for Access Points. 2.6.1. Station (SA-10, SA-40) and Bridge (WB-10) LEDs Name Description Functionality PWR power supply On – After successful power up Off – Power off WLNK WLAN Link On – Unit is synchronized or associated with an AP Off – Unit is not synchronized or associated with an AP ETHR Ethernet activity On – Reception on Ethernet port Off – No reception on Ethernet port QLT Quality of reception very low quality reception or not synchronized with Access Point less than -81 dBm low quality reception (usually enabling 1 Mbps traffic) from -81 to -77 dBm medium quality reception (usually enabling 2 Mbps traffic) from -77 to -65 dBm high quality reception (usually enabling 3 Mbps traffic) greater than -65 dBm
Basic Installation BreezeNET PRO.11 Series 2-6 User’s Guide 2.6.2. Access Point LEDs Name Description Functionality PWR power supply On – After successful power up Off – Power off INFR radio interference Off – No interference Blinking – Interference Present ETHR Ethernet activity On – Reception of data from Ethernet LAN that is forwarded to WLAN (in reject unknown mode) Off – No reception of data from Ethernet LAN that is forwarded to WLAN LOAD WLAN load Number of associated stations no stations 1-8 stations 9-16 stations 17 or more stations 2.6.3. Verifying the Ethernet Connection Once you have connected the unit to an Ethernet outlet, verify that the ETHR LED on the front panel is blinking. The ETHR LED should blink whenever the unit receives LAN traffic. At the other end of the Ethernet link, verify that the LINK indicator is ON. For APs the LINK indicator is located on the attached hub port, and for Station Adapters the LINK indicator is located on the NIC.
Device Setup and Management BreezeNET PRO.11 Series 3-1 User’s Guide 3. DEVICE SETUP AND MANAGEMENT This chapter explains how to access the local terminal program, and how to use the terminal program to setup, configure, and manage most BreezeNET PRO.11 Series units. The BreezeNET PRO.11 Series is a plug-and-play solution and operates immediately after physical installation without any user intervention. However, you can adapt the system to your particular needs using the local terminal. In addition, all products in the series contain an SNMP agent and are configurable remotely via the network. Note: Reset the unit after making configuration changes so that the changes will take effect. 3.1. Accessing and Using Local Terminal Management ÞÞ To access Local Terminal Management: 1. Use the Monitor cable (supplied with the Access Point) to connect the MON jack on the rear panel of the unit to the COM port of your ASCII ANSI terminal or PC. 2. Run a terminal emulation program (such as HyperTerminal™). 3. Set up communication parameters to the following: • Baud Rate: 9600 • Data Bits: 8 • Stop Bits: 1 • Parity: None • Flow Control: NONE • Connector: Connected COM port. 4. Press Enter. The main menu appears.
Device Setup and Management BreezeNET PRO.11 Series 3-2 User’s Guide ÞÞ To use Local Terminal Management: 1. Press an option number to open/activate the option. You may need to press Enter in some cases. 2. Press Esc to exit a menu or option. 3. Reset the unit after making configuration changes. 3.2. Configuration Screens Listed below are the menus, sub-menus, and parameters/options in the terminal program. Default values are listed where applicable. Numbers in the table below indicate how to reach each option. For example, to reach the 1.2.1 IP Address option, start at the main menu, press 1, then 2, and then 1. Menu Sub-Menu Parameter/Option Default Values 1. System Configuration 1.1 Station Status • Unit’s Mode • Unit’s H/W Address • Unit’s WLAN Addr (SA-10/40,WB-10) • Station Status (SA-10-40, WB -10 Only) • Total Number of Associations since last reset (SA-10-40, WB -10 Only) • Current Number of Associations (AP) • Maximum Number of Associations since last reset (AP) • Current Number of Authentications (AP) • Maximum Number of Authentications since last reset (AP) 1.2 IP and SNMP Parameters 1.2.1 IP Address 1.2.2 Subnet Mask 1.2.3 Default Gateway Address 1.2.4 SNMP Traps 1.2.5 Display Current Values Not set Not set Not set Enabled 1.3 Wireless LAN (WLAN) Parameters 1.3.1 Hopping Sequence (AP Only) 1.3.2 Hopping Set (AP Only) 1.3.3 ESSID 1.3.4 Maximum Data Rate 1.3.5 Transmit Antenna 1.3.6 Mobility 1.3.7 Load Sharing 1.3.8 Preferred AP (SA-10/40, WB -10 Only) 1.3.A Display Current Values 1 (FCC standard) 1 (FCC standard) ESSID1 3Mbps Use 2 Antennas* Low Disabled** Not set 1.4 Bridging 1.4.1 LAN-WLAN Bridge Mode (AP Only) 1.4.2 Intelligent Bridging Period (AP Only) 1.4.3 IP Filtering 1.4.4 Tunneling 1.4.5 Broadcast Relaying 1.4.6 Unicast Relaying Reject Unknown 15 sec Disabled Both Enabled Enabled
Device Setup and Management BreezeNET PRO.11 Series 3-3 User’s Guide Menu Sub-Menu Parameter/Option Default Values 1.5 Station Control 1.5.1 Reset Unit 1.5.2 Load Factory Defaults 1.6.Security (Not activated) 1.6.1 Authentication Algorithm 1.6.2 Default Key ID 1.6.3 Preauthentication A. WEP Default Key #1 B WEP Default Key #2 C. WEP Default Key #3 D. WEP Default Key #4 Open System Key #1 Disabled User defined User defined User defined User defined 2. Advanced Settings 2.1 Translation Mode Enabled 2.2 Roaming 2.2.1 Max Number of Scanning 2.2.2 Roaming Decision Window 2.2.3 Roaming Decision Numerator 2.2.4 Roaming Decision RSSI Threshold 2.2.5 Jogging Decision RSSI Threshold 2.2.6 Number of Beacons for Disconnect Decision 2.2.7 Number of Probe Responses Neighboring Beacon Rate 70 10 6 60 65 4 Sent every 40 dwell times 2.3 Performance 2.3.1 Dwell Time (AP Only) 2.3.2 RTS Threshold 2.3.3 Max Number of Re-Transmissions 2.3.4 Number of Dwells to Re-Transmit 2.3.5 Max Multicast Rate 2.3.6 Power Saving (Not activated) 2.3.7 DTIM Period (Not activated) 2.3.8 IP Stack 2.3.9 Acknowledge Delay 128 millisecs 120 bytes 1 2 1 Mbps Disabled 4 Enabled Regular 2.4 Radio 2.4.1 Hopping Standard 2.4.2 Display Site Proprietary Sequences 2.4.3 Power Level 2.4.4 Carrier Semse Level 2.4.5 Carrier Sense Difference Level US FCC User defined High 50 14 2.5 Rate 2.5.1 Multi – Rate Support 2.5.2 Multi – Rate Decision window Size Enabled 3 2.6 AP Redundancy Support Enter New AP Redundancy Support Decision Period (in seconds) Disabled 2.7 Maintenance 2.7.1 Auto Calibration 2.7.2 Wait for association Address 2.7.3 Japan Call sign Enabled Wait for update 3. Site Survey 3.1 System Counters 3.1.1 Display Ethernet and WLAN Counters 3.1.2 Display Rate Counters 3.1.3 Display Rx Packets per Frequency 3.1.4 Reset All Counters 3.1.5 Power Saving Counters 3.2 Survey Software 3.2.1 Operation Mode (Rx/Tx) 3.2.2 Start Statistics Rx
Device Setup and Management BreezeNET PRO.11 Series 3-4 User’s Guide Menu Sub-Menu Parameter/Option Default Values 3.2.3 Stop Statistics 3.3 Event Log 3.3.1 Display Event Log 3.3.2 Erase Event Log 3.3.3 Event Storage Policy From level warning up 3.4 Display Neighboring AP’s 4. Access Control 4.1 Change Access Rights 4.2 Change Installer Password 4.3 Show Current Access Right * Option 1.3.5 Transmit Antenna has the default value Use #2 for the SA-40 unit only. ** Option 1.3.7 Load Sharing has the default value Enabled for the AP-10 unit only. 3.3. Main Menu BreezeNET PRO.11 Series (SA-10) Version : 4.3.10 Date: 15 Feb 1999 23:49:56 BreezeNET Monitor ================== 1 – System Configuration 2 – Advanced Settings 3 – Site Survey 4 – Access Control Select option > Figure 3.1: Main Menu PRO.11 Series Unit Model (SA-10, SA-40, WB-10, AP-10) Software Version
Device Setup and Management BreezeNET PRO.11 Series 3-5 User’s Guide 3.4. System Configuration Menu BreezeNET PRO.11 Series (SA-10) Version : 4.3.10 Date: 15 Feb 1999 23:49:56 System Configuration menu ========================= 1 - Station Status 2 - IP and SNMP Parameters 3 - Wireless LAN Parameters 4 – Bridging 5 - Station Control 6 – Security Select option > Figure 3.2: System Configuration Menu 3.4.1. Station Status Station Status is a read-only sub-menu that displays the current values of the following parameters: • Unit Mode – Identifies the unit’s function. For example, if the unit is an Access Point, “AP” appears in this field. If the unit is a Station Adapter (SA-10, SA-40) or a WB-10, "SA" appears in this field. • Unit H/W Address – Displays the unit’s unique IEEE MAC address. • Unit WLAN Address (SA or WB) – The address by which the unit associates. For the SA-10, this is the address of the PC. For the SA-40 and WB-10, this is the address of the hardware. This field does not appear when the unit is an AP. • Station Status (SA or WB) – Current status of the station. There are three options: • Scanning - The station is searching for an AP with which to associate.
Device Setup and Management BreezeNET PRO.11 Series 3-6 User’s Guide • Sync Waiting for Address - (this option is relevant only to the SA-10). The station is synchronized with an AP but has not yet learned its WLAN MAC address. The AP does not forward packets to the station when it is in this mode. • Associated - The station is associated with an AP and has adopted the attached PC MAC address (for SA-10) or uses the unit’s H/W address (SA-40 and WB-10), and is receiving packets from the LAN. • AP Address (Station Only) – MAC Address of the AP with which the unit is currently associated. • Total Number of Associations since last reset – Total number of stations currently associated with an AP. • Current Number of Associations (AP Only) – Total number of stations currently associated with an AP. • Maximum Number of Associations since last reset (AP Only – For stations, this indicates the total number of associations and disassociations with various AP’s. This is usually an indication of roaming. When the unit is an AP, this field indicates how many stations are currently associated with this particular AP. • Current Number of Authentications (AP Only) – The current number of stations that are authenticated to this AP, including stations that are “pre-authenticated” and not associated to this AP. • Maximum Number of Authentications since last reset (AP Only) – The number of authentications (and “preauthentications”) to this AP; since it was last reset. This number includes stations that were disauthenticated for different reasons. 3.4.2. IP and SNMP Parameters All BreezeNET PRO.11 units contain IP Host software. This software is used for testing the unit for SNMP management functions and for downloading software upgrades using the TFTP protocol. • IP Address – IP address of the unit. • Subnet Mask – Subnet mask of the unit. • Default Gateway Address – Gateway address of the unit.
Device Setup and Management BreezeNET PRO.11 Series 3-7 User’s Guide • SNMP Traps – Whether this unit sends SNMP traps. If enabled, when an event occurs, a trap is sent to the defined host address (see section 8.1.2 for a list of traps). You can configure the host address to which the traps are sent through SNMP management. • Display Current Values – Displays information concerning the current status of all IP-related items. 3.4.3. Wireless LAN (WLAN) Parameters The WLAN Parameters Menu contains the following options: • Hopping Sequence (AP Only) – Hopping sequence of the unit. A hopping sequence is a pre-defined series of channels (frequencies) that are used in a specific, pseudo-random order as defined in the sequence. The unit “hops” from frequency to frequency according to the selected sequence. When more than one AP is co-located in the same area (even if they are not part of the same network) it is recommended to assign a different hopping sequence to each AP. Hopping sequences are grouped in three hopping sets. The hopping set selected in the Hopping Set screen (see next parameter) determines which hopping sequences are available in this screen. When setting up multiple APs in the same site, always choose hopping sequences from the same hopping set. This reduces the possibility of collisions on the WLAN. This parameter is set only in AP-10 PRO.11 Access Point. It is not accessible from any other BreezeNET PRO.11 unit. All other stations learn it from the Access Point during the association process. Different co-located WLAN segments should use different hopping sequences. • Hopping Set (AP Only) – Hopping set (between 1 and 3) of the unit. Hopping sequences are grouped in several hopping sets. The hopping set selected in this screen determines which hopping sequences are available in the Hopping Sequence screen (see previous parameter). Always use the same hopping set per site. Following is the list of hopping sequences and sets for each country. The default value for all countries is:
Device Setup and Management BreezeNET PRO.11 Series 3-8 User’s Guide Hopping Sequence=1, Hopping Set=1. • ESSID – ESSID of the unit (up to 32 printable ASCII characters). The ESSID is a string used to identify a WLAN. This ID prevents the unintentional merging of two co-located WLANs. A station can only associate with an AP that has the same ESSID. Use different ESSIDs to segment the WLAN network and add security. Note: The ESSID is case-sensitive. • Maximum Data Rate – Maximum data rate of the unit. BreezeNET PRO.11 units operate at 1 Mbps, 2 Mbps or 3 Mbps. The unit adaptively selects the highest possible rate for transmission. Under certain conditions (compatibility reasons or for range/speed trade-off) you may decide to limit the use of higher rates. • Transmit Antenna – Which antennas are used for transmission. During reception, a BreezeNET PRO.11 unit dynamically selects the antenna where reception is optimal. In contrast, before transmission the unit selects the antenna from which it will transmit. It usually uses the antenna last used for successful transmission. In models with external antennas, sometimes only a single antenna is used. In this case, Transmit Antenna should be configured to transmit only from that single antenna. Similarly, models using a booster or an LNA use only a single antenna for transmission. There are three possibilities for configuration: 0 Use Two Antennas 1 Use Antenna No. 1 only 2 Use Antenna No. 2 only • Mobility – BreezeNET PRO.11 stations optimize their roaming algorithms according to the mobility mode parameter. For example, a stationary station is more tolerant of bad propagation conditions. It assumes that this is a temporary situation and is not caused by the station changing position. Initiating a roaming procedure in such a case would be counter-productive. In general, Wireless stations can be used in one of three mobility modes: • High – For stations that may move at speeds of over 30 km per hour.
Device Setup and Management BreezeNET PRO.11 Series 3-9 User’s Guide • Medium – For stations that may move at speeds of over 10 km per hour, but not over 30 km per hour. • Low – For stations that will not move at speeds of over 10 km per hour. Low is the default value. In most cases this is the best choice. • Load Sharing – When installing a Wireless LAN network in a high-traffic environment; you can increase the aggregate throughput by installing multiple APs to create co-located cells. When load sharing is enabled, the wireless stations distribute themselves evenly among the APs to best divide the traffic between the APs. • Preferred AP – AP MAC (Ethernet) address of the preferred AP. You can configure a station to prefer a specific AP unit. When the station powers up, it will associate with the preferred AP even if the signal from that AP is lower than the signal from other APs. The station will roam to another AP only if it stops receiving beacons from the preferred AP. • Display Current Values – This read-only status screen displays current WLAN parameters. Press any key to return to the WLAN Parameters Menu. 3.4.4. Bridging The Bridging Menu contains the following options: • LAN to WLAN Bridging Mode (AP Only) – The options are: • Reject Unknown – Type 0 to allow transmission of packets only to stations that the AP knows to exist in the Wireless LAN (behind the Wireless Bridge). • Forward Unknown – Type 1 to allow transmission of all packets except those sent to stations that the AP recognizes as being on its wired Ethernet side. When connecting very large networks; it is recommended to set this parameter to forward unknown. • Intelligent Bridging Period (AP Only) – Intelligent bridging enables smooth roaming of WB-10 units. When intelligent bridging is enabled, the AP goes into a special bridging mode for a fixed amount of time whenever a wireless bridge (WB) roams into its area. This mode causes the AP to forward packets destined for the stations behind the WB-10. Even though, they are known or were learned from the wired side
Device Setup and Management BreezeNET PRO.11 Series 3-10 User’s Guide (except that no learning of the wired LAN will take place). Afterwards, the AP will switch back to Reject Unknown bridging mode. This procedure prevents packets destined for stations behind the bridge from getting lost. The value of this parameter is the length of time in seconds that the AP will remain in special mode. • IP Filtering – Whether IP filtering is enabled for the unit. Enable IP Filtering to filter out any other protocol (such as IPX) if you want that only IP traffic will pass through the WLAN. • Tunneling – Whether the unit performs Apletalk or IPX tunneling. • Disable Appletalk Tunneling. This parameter allows to disable or enable (default) Appletalk tunneling; if the network contains a mix of Ethertalk1 (ET1) and Ethertalk2 (ET2) stations to ensure smooth communications. Be sure to set all units to the same tunneling setting. • Disable IPX Tunneling. This parameter allows to disable or enable (default) IPX tunneling; if the IPX protocol is running over your network. Be sure to set all units to the same tunneling setting. • Broadcast Relaying (AP Only) – When Broadcast Relaying is enabled, Broadcast packets originated in WLAN devices are transmitted by the AP back to the WLAN devices, as well as to the LAN. If it is disabled, these packets are sent only to the local wired LAN and are not sent back to the WLAN. Disable Broadcast Relaying only if you know that all Broadcast messages from the WLAN will be destined to the wired LAN. • Unicast Relaying – When Unicast Relaying is enabled, Unicast packets originated in WLAN devices can be transmitted back to the WLAN devices. If this parameter is disabled, these packets are not sent to the WLAN even if they are intended for devices on the WLAN. Disable Unicast Relaying only if you know that all Unicast messages from the WLAN will be destined to the local wired LAN. Note: Notice that some of the most common internet applications use peer-to-peer traffic, such as “chat”, ICQ and even internet browsing between a client and a server which are connected wirelessly on the same subnet. Disabling Broadcast or Unicast relaying will cause such applications to become unavailable. 3.4.5. Station Control The Station Control Menu contains the following options:
Device Setup and Management BreezeNET PRO.11 Series 3-11 User’s Guide • Reset Unit – Resets the BreezeNET PRO.11 unit and applies any changes made to the system parameters. • Set Factory Defaults –When this option is implemented, system parameters revert back to the original factory default settings. There are two options: • Full – All parameters revert to defaults except for the Hopping Standard and Japan Call Sign (if applicable). • Partial – All parameters revert except for the Hopping Standard and Japan Call Sign (if applicable), IP Address, SubNet Mask, Default Gateway, Hopping Sequence, Hopping Set, ESSID, Transmit Antenna, Acknowledge Delay, Preferred AP, IP Filtering, Hopping Standard, Power Level, Auto Calibration. 3.4.6. Security Security options are not activated yet. The security mechanism involves configuring four different modules: • Authentication Algorithm – This module operates in two modes: • Open System (Default). There is no privacy implemented by authentication. After synchronization, a station will send a request for authentication and immediately receive a “successful authentication” message from the AP.(2 frames) • Shared Key authentication (for users with access keys). This option will activate the WEP cryptographic authentication. After synchronization, a station will send a request for authentication, the AP will answer with a “challenge text” (ASCII characters), the station will encrypt this text using RC4 (not yet implemented) with the encryption key in use and send this text back to the AP, the AP will decrypt the received message and if it matches the original text it will send a “successful authentication” message. (4 frames). The association process will begin only after a successful authentication (in either system). • Default Key ID – In order to authenticate, the value of the key used by the station and the AP must be identical. During the authentication process a station must notify the AP which key it used to encrypt the challenge text. The station will do this by passing the number of the current default key it uses. The AP and station must have the same keys (values).
Device Setup and Management BreezeNET PRO.11 Series 3-12 User’s Guide • Preauthentication – During the authentication process the AP is notifying the other AP’s connected to the Ethernet backbone to preauthenticate the station that has been authenticated to this AP. It is recommended to use this feature when there is plenty of roaming between the AP’s. Preauthentication must be activated on both the AP’s and the Station. • WEP Key#1-4 – These 4 Access Keys must be configured before they can be used. In this screen you may enter the encryption key. The key is made of 10 Hex (0-9,A-F) characters. In order to change the unit to work in shared key authentication all four keys must be entered. Entering zeros (0000000000) which is the default for this parameter will cause the unit to work in open system authentication. 3.5. Advanced Settings Menu BreezeNET PRO.11 Series (SA-10) Version : 4.3.10 Date: 15 Feb 1999 23:49:56 Advanced menu ================ 1 – Translation Mode 2 – Roaming 3 – Performance 4 – Radio 5 – Rate 6 - AP Redundancy Support 7 – Maintenance Select option > Figure 3.3: Advanced Settings Menu The following sections describe the important parameters and relevant information in the Advanced Settings Menu. All menu options can be viewed by the Installer; However, the modification of certain parameters from this menu, require the Technician access rights level.
Device Setup and Management BreezeNET PRO.11 Series 3-13 User’s Guide 3.5.1. Translation Mode (read-only) The translation of Ethernet packets can be enabled (default) or disable. 3.5.2. Roaming (read-only) The Roaming menu contains parameters related to when and how the unit roams from one AP to another. The following windows can be accessed from the Roaming menu: • Max. Number of Scanning • Roaming Decision Window • Roaming Decision Numerator · Roaming Decision RSSI Threshold – At what signal strength the unit roams to another AP · Joining Decision RSSI Threshold – At what signal strength the unit associates with an AP • Number of Beacons for Disconnect Decision • Number of Probe Responses • Neighboring Beacon Rate •• Neighboring AP‘s – Currently known number of AP‘s 3.5.3. Performance The Performance menu contains parameters regarding unit performance: • Dwell Time (AP Only) – The time spent on a radio channel before hopping to the next channel in the sequence. The default value is 128ms. • RTS Threshold (read-only) – Minimum packet size to require an RTS. For packets smaller than this threshold, an RTS packet is not sent and the packet is transmitted directly to the WLAN. The threshold is 120 bytes. A station wanting to transmit a packet, first transmits a short control packet called RTS (Request To Send), which includes the source, destination, and the duration of the following transaction (i.e. the packet and the respective ACK). The destination station responds (if the medium is free) with a response control Packet called CTS (Clear to Send), which includes the same duration information. • Max. Number of Re-Transmissions (read-only) – If a packet was received with errors or not received at all, the station will not transmit an ACK (acknowledgement) packet. The station that initiated the first transmission will try to re-transmit the packet. The number of times the unit will try to re-transmit this packet is determined by two parameters in
Device Setup and Management BreezeNET PRO.11 Series 3-14 User’s Guide this menu, Max. Number of Re-Transmissions and Number of Dwells to Re-Transmit. This parameter can be presented as a counter. This counter is decreased each time a re-transmission occurs. It will be the minimum number of times a packet will be re-transmitted. • Number of Dwells to Re-Transmit (read-only) – A re-transmission will be performed after a set number of Dwells. This parameter works in conjunction with the Max Number of Re-Transmissions parameter. • Max Multicast Rate (read-only) – Multicast and Broadcast transmissions are not yet acknowledged, the chance of error increases. Therefore by default, the unit will always transmit broadcasts, multicasts and control frames in the minimum possible rate, 1Mbps. • Power Saving – This option is not activated yet. There are three modes: •• Disable (Active Mode): The station is Active all the time, uses full power. • Enable (Power Save Mode): In this mode the station has two states: Awake state, uses full power. Doze (sleep) state, uses approximately 5% power. • Enable and test PM bit. In this mode the station will test every frame and check if the power management bit is enabled. Power Management Mechanism: Stations inform AP about their Power Management Mode (Active or Power Save). Stations in Power Save Mode are usually in sleep state. A station will enter awake state in order to transmit data and also from time to time in known intervals (DTIM period). AP’s maintain a table indicating the Power Save mode of each associated station. Data destined for Active Mode stations is sent immediately by AP. Data destined for Power Save Mode stations is buffered by AP. Every Beacon includes TIM (Traffic Identification Map). TIM identifies the stations (by SID) of data buffered in the AP, waiting to be retrieved. If a station recognizes its address in the TIM, the station will send a PS-POLL (Power Save Poll) to the AP. In response to this, the AP will forward a data frame buffered for that station. Aging: If a data frame is buffered in the AP more than 50 seconds, it will be deleted along with all other frames buffered for that station.
Device Setup and Management BreezeNET PRO.11 Series 3-15 User’s Guide This process is done every 2 seconds. Notice that although power save mode is set in the AP it will not effect the APs’ power consumption, but only the handling and management. • DTIM Period (read-only) – This is the number of dwells between broadcast transmissions of messages for stations in power saving mode. Note: This option is not activated yet. • IP Stack – By default this parameter is enabled. If it is disabled, it will improve performance, but IP support will not be available. • Acknowledge Delay – Acknowledge delay is designed to increase the performance in links LONGER THAN 20 KM. This parameter increases the ACK timeout in the units, and therefore allows a more efficient operation. When a BreezeNET unit transmits a certain packet, it waits for a pre defined time interval (ACK Timeout) for an ACK packet to be received. If the ACK is not received during that interval, the unit will assume the transmission has failed, and will retransmit the packet. In links longer than 20 km, that ACK timeout is not long enough for the ACK to arrive to the other side on time, and therefore unnecessary retransmissions are made, causing the performance to drop. This parameter increases the ACK timeout and allows the ACK to arrive to the other side on time, in links longer than 20 km. Note: Acknowledge delay must be enabled on both sides of the link, when the distance is greater than 20 km. If used in links shorter than 20 km, a significant performance drop may occur. 3.5.4. Radio The Radio menu contains the following major parameters: • Hopping Standard (read-only) – The Hopping Standard is a set of rules regarding the radio transmission standard allowed in each country. Units will work together only if set to the same hopping standard. • Power level – Output power level at which the unit is transmitting. There are two possibilities, Low (4dBm) or High (17 dBm) at the antenna connector. • Carrier Sense Level (read-only) – Before transmission a station will check if the media is free of other transmissions. This parameter is a threshold in RSSI units that determines the sensitivity of the Carrier
Device Setup and Management BreezeNET PRO.11 Series 3-16 User’s Guide Sense mechanism. Signals with a lower RSSI are considered “noise” and are disregarded by the unit. • Carrier Sense Difference Level (read-only) - Carrier Sense Difference Level refers to a sudden rise of the signal level. This parameter is the minimum rise in RSSI units to be considered a Carrier Sense postitive result, in which case the unit will not attempt to transmit. It is recommended not to change this parameter 3.5.5. Rate The Rate menu contains the following relevant parameters: • Multi-Rate Support (read-only) – When this parameter is enabled, the unit will automatically switch to the best transmission rate at any given time. • Multi-Rate Decision Window Size (read-only) – This parameter indicates the number of packets to be used for multi-rate decisions. It is recommended not to change the value of this parameter. 3.5.6. AP Redundancy Support (read-only) When the AP identifies the Ethernet wire connection has been disconnected over a defined time period; it stops transmitting. The default mode is disabled (the AP continues transmitting even when the link is discontinued). 3.5.7. Maintenance The Maintenance menu contains the following major parameters and information: • Auto Calibration – When the unit is started, it performs an internal self-test. Part of this test is automatic calibration of the DC Offset and deviation pattern. Auto Calibration is not supported in the “DE” models, and it therefore must be disabled for “DE” units. • Wait for Association Address (SA only) – For the SA-10, the Association address is the MAC address of the NIC (Network interface Card) card that the station is connected to through the Ethernet UTP port (usually the Ethernet card of the PC). The station uses the Association Address as its identification in the Wireless Cell (WLAN address). When a station is first connected to an ethernet port, it waits for the
Device Setup and Management BreezeNET PRO.11 Series 3-17 User’s Guide Association Address update over the Ethernet. You can also have the device use its own MAC address (Use Mine) for testing purposes, in which case there will not be a proper network connection. 3.6. Site Survey Menu BreezeNET PRO.11 Series (SA-10) Version : 4.3.10 Date: 15 Feb 1999 23:49:56 Site Survey menu ================ 1 - System Counters 2 - Survey Software 3 – Event Log 4 – Display Neighboring AP’s Select option > Figure 3.4: Site Survey Menu The Site Survey Menu gives access to the sub-menus necessary to perform a Site Survey that helps you position your units and align their antennas, as well as perform troubleshooting. The following sections first describe the sub-menus in the Site Survey menu, and then explain step-by-step how to perform a Site Survey. The Site Survey menu contains four sub-menus: • System Counters • Survey Software • Event Log • Display Neighboring AP’s
Device Setup and Management BreezeNET PRO.11 Series 3-18 User’s Guide 3.6.1. System Counters BreezeNET PRO.11 Series (AP-10) Version : 4.3.10 Date: 15 Feb 1999 23:49:56 System Counters menu ==================== 1 - Display Ethernet and WLAN Counters 2 - Display Rate Counters 3 - Display Rx packets per frequency 4 - Reset All Counters 5 - Power Saving Counters Select option > Figure 3.4b: Systems Counters Menu The System counters are a simple yet very efficient tool to monitor, interpret and analyze the Wireless LAN performance. The counters contain statistics concerning Wireless and Ethernet frames. The submenu contains the following options: • Display Ethernet and WLAN Counters – Choose this option to display the current value of the Ethernet and Wireless counters. Ethernet Counters Ethernet counters display statistics about the unit’s Ethernet port activity. The unit receives Ethernet frames from its UTP port and forwards them to its internal bridge, which decides whether or not to transmit them to the Wireless LAN. The units have a smart hardware filter mechanism which filters most of the frames on the LAN, and hardware filtered frames are not counted. On the other side, frames which where received from the wireless LAN and some frames generated by the unit (answers to SNMP queries and pings which reached to the unit via the UTP port), will be transmitted to the UTP port. Available Counters: • Total Received frames – The total number of frames received from the UTP port. This counter includes both bad and good frames.
Device Setup and Management BreezeNET PRO.11 Series 3-19 User’s Guide • Received Bad Frames – The number of frames with errors received from the UTP port. High values (more than just a few) indicate a problem in the UTP connection such as a bad UTP cable or hub port. • Received good frames – The number of good frames (i.e. frames with no errors) received from the UTP port. • Forwarded to the bridge – The number of received frames that were forwarded to the unit’s internal bridge. This counter should be equal to the number of good frames unless the internal bridge is overloaded. • Missed Frames – Frames that the unit recognized but failed to read due to internal bridge overload. This counter should equal zero unless the internal bridge is overloaded. • Transmitted to Ethernet – The number of frames transmitted by the unit to the UTP port. These mainly include frames that have been received from the Wireless side, but also includes frames generated by the unit itself. Wireless LAN Counters Wireless counters display statistics about the unit’s Wireless LAN activity. Transmission to the wireless media includes data frames received from the UTP ports, as well as self generated control and management frames. When a data frame is transmitted, the unit will wait for an acknowledge from the receiving side. If an acknowledge is not received, the unit will retransmit the frame until it gets an acknowledge (there are no retransmissions for control frames). If the unit has retransmitted a frame for the maximum number of retransmissions (refer to section 3.5.3) it will stop re-transmitting the frame and drop this frame. Available Counters: • Total Transmitted Frames – The number of frames transmitted to the wireless media. The count includes the first transmission of data frames (without retransmissions), and the number of control and management frames. Notice that an AP continuously transmits a control frame called beacon in every frequency to which it hops, in order to publish its existence and keep its associated stations synchronized. Thus, the total
Device Setup and Management BreezeNET PRO.11 Series 3-20 User’s Guide transmitted frames counter will get high values even if the AP-10 is not connected to an active LAN. • Total Transmitted Frames (Bridge) - The total number of data frames transmitted to the wireless media (i.e. frames that were received form the UTP port and forwarded to the internal bridge which decided to transmit them to the wireless media). • Total Transmitted Data Frames – This counter is similar to the above but counts only data frames. In most BreezeNET PRO.11 units, the number of total transmitted frames and total transmitted frames (bridge) are identical. In the case of the AP, due to the inclusion of beacon frames, this number will be higher than that for Total transmitted frames. • Frames Dropped (too many retries) – The number of frames which were dropped since they were retransmitted for the maximum number of allowed retransmissions and weren’t acknowledged. • Total Transmitted Fragments – The total number of transmitted frames. The count includes data, control and management frames, and the number of retransmissions of data frames (for example, if the same data frame is retransmitted ten times, the count will increase ten times). • Total Retransmitted Fragments – The total number of retransmissions of data frames (for example, if the same data frame is retransmitted ten times then the count will increase ten times). In a point-to-point application, this counter should relatively correspond to the number of bad fragments received on the other side. • Total Tx Errors – The number of transmit errors that have occurred. Currently this counter also includes normal situations where a fragment has not been transmitted because the dwell time has elapsed. • Internally Discarded – The number of frames that the AP discarded due to a buffer overflow. Frame discard will occur mainly when the wireless conditions are bad and the unit is busy re-transmitting frames and doesn’t have time for handling new frames. • Power Saving Aged – The AP buffers frames for stations in a power saving sleep mode. This counter counts the number of frames dropped by the AP because a station did not wake up for a long time.
Device Setup and Management BreezeNET PRO.11 Series 3-21 User’s Guide • Power Saving Free Entries – Number of free buffers (one frame each) available for power save management. These buffers hold messages for stations that only periodically make contact with the AP due to power considerations. • Total Received Frames - The number of frames received from the wireless media. The count includes data and control frames (including beacons received from AP’s). • Total Received Data Frames – The number of data frames received from the wireless media. • Total Received Fragments – The total number of frames received, including data, control and duplicate data frames (see duplicates and dwell timeouts parameter below). • Bad Fragments Received – The number of frames received from the WLAN with errors. In a point-to-point application, this counter should relatively correspond to the number of retransmitted fragments on the other side. • Duplicates and Dwell timeouts – When a unit receives a frame; it sends an acknowledgement for it. If the acknowledge is lost, than it receives a second copy of the same frame, since the other side thinks this frame was not received. Although duplicate frames are count, only the first copy of the frame is forward to the UTP port. • Display Rate Counters – Displays contents of packets at each rate. The AP displays counters per station. • Display Rx Packets per Frequency - Histogram of the number of frames received on each channel. This graph is explained fully in section 3.6.6 , Using the Rx Packets per Frequency Histogram. • Reset Counters - Choose this option to reset all the counters. After choosing this option, you will be requested to type 1 for confirmation or 0 to cancel the reset. • Power Saving Counters – Displays the power saving per station, the number of transmitted frames and the number of discarded frames. This applies only to AP’s.
Device Setup and Management BreezeNET PRO.11 Series 3-22 User’s Guide 3.6.2. Survey Software The Survey Software sub-menu enables you to align antennas and to assess the radio signal quality of a point-to-point link. The sub-menu includes the following options: • Operation Mode – When running a Site Survey, set the units on either side of the link to either receive (option 1) or transmit (option 2) packets (one unit should be set to transmit and the other to receive). Option 0 (Idle mode) is not active at present. • Start Statistics – Press 2 and then press any digit to start Site Survey. • Stop Statistics – Press 3 and then press any key to stop update of Site Survey statistics. 3.6.3. Event Log • Display Event Log - The last four error messages that the unit displayed since the last Factory Defaults reset. The Event log stores events in four levels of error notifications: Message, Warning, Error, and Fatal. • Erase Event Log – Erase a specific event log. • Event Storage Policy – Defines storage level for the event log. The following are the levels which events are stored in log: 0 - Store all events (beginning at message level) 1 - Store all events from warning level up 2 - Store all events from error level up 3 - Store fatal events only 3.6.4. Display Neighboring AP’s Displays neighboring AP’s on the same ESS. The information displayed in this option refers to the CURRENT or NEIGHBOR AP that the station can hear. The following information is displayed. • The MAC Address of the AP described. • Good or bad frames: The number of frames, out of the total number of frames received from the current AP, that are considered “good or bad”. A frame is considered good or bad; if it was received in an RSSI level higher or lower than the value set at the “Roaming Decision RSSI Threshold” parameter (see “Roaming” on section 3.5.2).
Device Setup and Management BreezeNET PRO.11 Series 3-23 User’s Guide • Total: The number of frames set as the “Roaming Decision Window” - 10 in the example shown above (see “Roaming” on section 3.5.2). • avr RSSI: The average RSSI level of the total number of frames (only includes the frames received without errors). • bcn cnt: (Beacon Count) - How many dwells have passed since the last beacon has been received. • Load: The number of stations currently associated with the descried AP. This parameter will be displayed only when “Load Sharing’” (page 24) is Enabled. 3.6.5. Using the Site Survey Software ÞÞ To use the Site Survey Software: 1. Roughly, align the antennas on either side of the link before starting the Site Survey procedure. 2. Verify that the Ethernet cables are disconnected from both units. 3. Press 1 to go to the Operation mode screen. Set the units on either side of the link to either receive (option 1) or transmit (option 2) packets (one unit should be set to transmit and the other to receive). 4. Start the survey by selecting option (2) in the Survey Software menu in both units. When performing a site survey from a station to an AP (transmitting from the station to the AP), always begin with the station (select option (2) on the station). 5. On the transmit side, a screen appears displaying a table with the number of packets and the frequency at which each packet was transmitted (refer to Figure 3.5). This list is updated continuously. Select option (3) to stop sending packets.
Device Setup and Management BreezeNET PRO.11 Series 3-24 User’s Guide BreezeNET PRO.11 Series (AP-10) Version : 4.3.10 Date: 15 Feb 1999 23:49:56 # Tx Packets Channel 0 37 1 10 2 7 3 30 4 28 5 44 6 35 7 12 8 48 9 76 10 42 Figure 3.5: Transmit Statistics 6. On the receive side of the link, the screen displays a table showing the packet number received, the antenna port that was selected for the reception, the Received Signal Strength Indicator (RSSI) for each antenna, the bit error rate, the frequency at which each packet was transmitted, the data rate at which the packet was transmitted, and the quality of the signal (refer to Figure 3.6). Use only the RSSI reading from the selected antenna. BreezeNET PRO.11 Series (AP-10)
Device Setup and Management BreezeNET PRO.11 Series 3-25 User’s Guide Version : 4.3.10 Date: 15 Feb 1999 23:49:56 #Pack Ant RSSI1 RSSI2 Bit_Err Freq Rate Quality 58 1 108 91 0 19 3 ########### 59 2 110 112 0 42 3 ########### 60 2 86 88 0 14 3 ########... 61 2 109 112 0 46 3 ########### 62 1 109 107 0 24 3 ########### 63 1 108 106 0 22 3 ########### 64 1 112 108 0 33 3 ########### 65 1 111 107 0 25 3 ########### 66 1 111 111 0 41 3 ########### 67 2 111 110 0 79 3 ########### 68 1 115 111 0 64 3 ########### 69 1 115 111 0 65 3 ########### 70 2 111 111 0 56 3 ########### 71 2 110 111 0 55 3 ########### Figure 3.6: Receive Statistics 7. The RSSI is given in arbitrary units. Use the following graph (Figure 3.7) to correlate RSSI to dBm. RSSI Vs. dBm5060708090100110120130-30 -40 -45 -50 -55 -60 -65 -70 -75 -78 -81 -83 -85RF Level [dbm]RSSI Value Figure 3.7: RSSI to dBm Graph 8. Re-align the antennas until the maximum received signal strength is obtained. As you align the antennas, you will see that the RSSI (received signal strength indicator) continually increases until it reaches a certain level after which the RSSI begins to decrease. This is the maximum attainable RSSI level indicating optimum receive antenna alignment.
Device Setup and Management BreezeNET PRO.11 Series 3-26 User’s Guide 9. Switch the functions of either side of the link (set the transmit unit to receive and the receive unit to transmit) and repeat the procedure to check the link from the opposite direction. 3.6.6. Using the Rx Packets per Frequency Histogram Use the Display Rx Packets per Frequency option to see a histogram of the number of frames received on each channel. BreezeNET PRO.11 Series (AP-10) Version : 4.3.10 Date: 15 Feb 1999 23:49:56 Max = 187 Min = 112 # # # # # # # # #### ### # # # # # ## # ## # # ## # # ## ## # ## ######## ###### # ######## # ### ## # ## # # ## # ## ####### ## ######################################################### ######## ############################################################################# ^ ^ ^ ^ ^ ^ ^ ^ 2 +10 +20 +30 +40 +50 +60 +70 Hit any key to return > Figure 3.8: Display Rx Packets per Frequency Each point of the histogram line corresponds to a frequency. The base frequency appears at the far left, and gradations are marked in steps of ten along the line. A hash represents each packet received on a given frequency (#). The Max and Min values indicate the highest and lowest number of frames received across all frequencies. This graph is very useful for tracking
Device Setup and Management BreezeNET PRO.11 Series 3-27 User’s Guide interference. Frequencies with low numbers of packets received probably have more interference than other frequencies. 3.7. Access Control Menu Access Control functions enable the System Administrator or Installer to limit the access to the Local Terminal Maintenance setup and configuration menus. BreezeNET PRO.11 Series (AP-10) Version : 4.3.10 Date: 15 Feb 1999 23:49:56 Access Control menu =================== 1 - Change Access Rights 2 - Change Installer Password S - Show Current Access Right Select option > Figure 3.9: Access Control Menu The Access Control menu includes the following options: • Change Access Rights – This screen determines the level of access rights to the BreezeNET PRO.11 unit’s setup and configuration menus. When the unit is first installed, the default setting is option (1), Installer and the default password is “user”: • User – The Local Terminal Management menus are read-only for a user who does not possess the correct password. The ESSID and security parameters are hidden by asterisks (*) at this level. • Installer – The installer has access to configure all required parameters in the system configuration menu, as well as some of the advanced settings. Access is password-protected. After
BreezeNET PRO.11 Series 3-28 User’s Guide configuration, the installer should change access rights to option (0), User. The installer can also change the installer password (see next parameter). • Technician – Only a Certified BreezeCOM Engineer possessing the correct password can select this option to configure all the parameters and settings. • Change Installer Password – Type in the new password according to the directions on screen. This screen changes the installer password to prevent unauthorized persons from making any changes in system configuration and setup. The password is limited to eight printable ASCII characters. This option is not available at User level. • Show Current Access Right – This read-only screen presents the current access right configuration. Important: If you change the Installer password do not forget it, or you will be unable to change the unit's access rights.
Planning and Installing Wireless LANs BreezeNET PRO.11 Series 4-2 User’s Guide 4. PLANNING AND INSTALLING WIRELESS LANS This chapter describes various possible system configurations, lists points to consider when performing indoor and outdoor installations, presents guidelines and restrictions regarding external antenna installation. It also describes some antennas that work well with BreezeNET PRO.11 units. 4.1. System Configurations This chapter describes various wireless LAN configurations, and how to set them up: • Single Cell Configuration – The wireless LAN consists of an Access Point and the wireless workstations associated with it. • Overlapping Cell Configuration – The wireless LAN consists of two or more adjacent Access Points whose coverage slightly overlaps. • Multicell Configuration – The wireless LAN consists of several Access Points installed in the same location. This creates a common coverage area that increases aggregate throughput. • Multi-Hop Configuration – The wireless LAN contains AP-WB pairs that extend the range of the wireless LAN. Many wireless LANs contain several of these configurations at different points in system. The Single Cell configuration is the most basic, and the other configurations build upon it.
Planning and Installing Wireless LANs BreezeNET PRO.11 Series 4-3 User’s Guide 4.1.1. Single Cell Configuration A basic BreezeNET cell consists of an Access Point and the wireless workstations associated with it. You can convert most workstations (PCs, X-Terminals, Apple, Digital, SUN, HP, IBM and others) that are equipped with an Ethernet network interface card (NIC) to wireless workstations simply by connecting a BreezeNET SA-10 PRO.11 Station Adapter. There are three types of Single Cell Configuration: • Point-to-Point • Point-to-Multipoint • Mobile Applications Each type is explained in the following sections. 4.1.1.1 Point-to-Point Point-to-Point installations (refer to Figure 5.1) require directional antennas at either end of the link. To select the best antenna for a specific application, consider the following factors: • Distance between sites • Required throughput • Clearance between sites • Cable length. Refer to the range tables (section 4.2.7) to determine the best combination of antennas for your application. 4.1.1.2 Point-to-Multipoint Point-to-Multipoint applications consist of one or more APs at the central site and several remote stations and bridges (SA-10, SA-40, WB-10). In this case, use an Omni antenna with the Access Point because of its 360° radiated pattern. Ιn the United States, the Omni-8 antenna (which also has a 360° radiated pattern but has a wider range) can also be used. The Omni-8 antenna comes with 20ft. of low loss cable and a mast mount bracket for rooftop installations.
Planning and Installing Wireless LANs BreezeNET PRO.11 Series 4-4 User’s Guide The remote units should use directional antennas aimed in the direction of the AP’s antenna(s). 4.1.1.3 Mobile Applications In mobile applications, station orientation changes continuously. In order to maintain connectivity throughout the entire coverage area, most mobile applications require omni-directional antennas for both Access Points and wireless stations. In a motor vehicle, for example, you can install an SA-10 in the cabin, and mount the antennas on the roof. 4.1.1.4 Extending the LAN with WLAN Bridging The figures below demonstrate how the WB-10 can be used to extend a regular network with a wireless link. Disclaimer: This diagram is for illustrative purposes only. It should not be confused with the transceiver operating in a standalone mode. When this diagram is in use, the transceiver will be used in conjunction with amp model AMP-2400S-250/500 and the antennas listed in this manual. Figure 5.1: Connecting Remote Offices to Main Office Network
Planning and Installing Wireless LANs BreezeNET PRO.11 Series 4-5 User’s Guide The WB-10 PRO.11 also enables connectivity between a wireless LAN and individual workstations or workgroups located outside the LAN. The WB-10 PRO.11 enables these wireless stations in its coverage area to communicate with the wireless LAN and gain access to all of the network resources such as file servers, printers and shared databases. Figure 5.2: Wireless Bridging Between Two or More Wireless LAN Segments 4.1.1.5 Setting Up a Single BreezeNET Cell ÞÞ To set up a single BreezeNET cell: 1. Install the Access Point (refer to section 2, Basic Installation). Be sure to position the Access Point as high as possible. Note: It is not necessary at this point to connect the Access Point to an Ethernet backbone, since Access Points continuously transmit signals (beacon frames) whether they are connected to an Ethernet backbone or not. 2. Install a Station Adapter (refer to section 2, Basic Installation). 3. Check the LED indicators of the front panel of the Station Adapter, to check signal strength. 4. Make any necessary adjustments, for example:
Planning and Installing Wireless LANs BreezeNET PRO.11 Series 4-6 User’s Guide • Adjust the antennas • Adjust the location of the Station Adapter • Adjust the location of the Access Point 5. Proceed to setup the other workstations. Figure 5.3: Single Cell Configuration Disclaimer: This diagram is for illustrative purposes only. It should not be confused with the transceiver operating in a standalone mode. When this diagram is in use, the transceiver will be used in conjunction with amp model AMP-2400S-250/500 and the antennas listed in this manual.
Planning and Installing Wireless LANs BreezeNET PRO.11 Series 4-7 User’s Guide 4.1.2. Overlapping Cell Configuration When two adjacent Access Points are positioned close enough to each other, a part of the coverage area of Access Point #1 overlaps that of Access Point #2. This overlapping area has two very important attributes: • Any workstation situated in the overlapping area can associate and communicate with either Access Point #1 or Access Point #2. • Any workstation can move seamlessly through the overlapping coverage areas without losing its network connection. This attribute is called, Seamless Roaming. Figure 5.4: Three Overlapping Cells ÞÞ To set up overlapping BreezeNET cells: 1. Install an Access Point (refer to section 2, Basic Installation). Be sure to position the Access Point as high as possible. 2. Install the second Access Point so that the two are positioned closer together than the prescribed distance (refer to section Error! Reference source not found.). 3. To allow roaming, configure all Access Points and stations adapters to the same ESSID. 4. To improve collocation and performance, configure all Access Points to different hopping sequences of the same hopping set.
Planning and Installing Wireless LANs BreezeNET PRO.11 Series 4-8 User’s Guide 5. Install a Station Adapter or SA-PCR Card on a workstation. 6. Position the wireless workstation approximately the same distance from the two Access Points. 7. Temporarily disconnect the first Access Point from the power supply. Verify radio signal reception from the first Access Point. View the LED indicators of the front panel of the Station Adapter, or the Site Survey application of the SA-PCR Card, to check signal strength of the first Access Point. 8. Disconnect the second Access Point from the power supply and re-connect the first Access Point. View the LED indicators of the front panel of the Station Adapter, or the Site Survey application of the SA-PCR Card, to check signal strength of the second Access Point. 7. If necessary, adjust the distance between the Access Points so the coverage areas overlap. 8. Continue setting up overlapping cells until the required area is covered. Note: It is not necessary at this point to connect the Access Points to an Ethernet backbone, since Access Points continuously transmit signals (beacon frames) whether they are connected to an Ethernet backbone or not.
Planning and Installing Wireless LANs BreezeNET PRO.11 Series 4-9 User’s Guide 4.1.3. Multicell Configuration Areas congested by many users and a heavy traffic load may require a multicell structure. In a multicell structure, several Access Points are installed in the same location. Each Access Point has the same coverage area, thereby creating a common coverage area that increases aggregate throughput. Any workstation in the overlapping area can associate and communicate with any Access Point covering that area. ÞÞ To set up a BreezeNET multicell: 1. Calculate the number of Access Points needed as follows: Multiply the number of active users by the required throughput per user, and divide the result by 1.5Mbps (net throughput supported by collocated Access Points). Consider the example of 5 active stations, each requiring 0.5 Mbps throughput. The calculation is (5*.5)/1.5=1.6. Two Access Points should be used. This method is accurate only for the first few Access Points. The aggregate throughput of the common coverage area is equal to the number of co-located Access Points, multiplied by the throughput of each individual Access Point, minus a certain amount of degradation caused by the interference among the different Access Points. 2. Install several Access Points in the same location a few meters from each other so they cover the same area. Be sure to position the Access Points as high as possible. 3. To allow roaming and redundancy, configure all Access Points and stations adapters to the same ESSID. 4. To improve collocation and performance, configure all Access Points to different hopping sequences of the same hopping set. 5. Install Station Adapters or SA-PCR Cards on workstations. 6. Make sure that the Load Sharing option is activated. Stations will automatically associate with an Access Point that is less loaded and provides better signal quality.
Planning and Installing Wireless LANs BreezeNET PRO.11 Series 4-10 User’s Guide Note: It is not necessary at this point to connect the Access Points to an Ethernet backbone, since Access Points continuously transmit signals (beacon frames) whether they are connected to an Ethernet backbone or not. Figure 5.5: Multicell Configuration
Planning and Installing Wireless LANs BreezeNET PRO.11 Series 4-11 User’s Guide 4.1.4. Multi-hop Configuration (Relay) When you want to connect two sites between which a line-of-sight does not exist, an AP-WB pair can be positioned at a third location where line-of-sight exists with each of the original locations. This third location then acts as a relay point. In areas where a wired LAN backbone is not available, another AP can be added to the AP-WB relay to distribute a wireless backbone. In this way, the range of a wireless system can be extended. System configuration is as follows: ÞÞ To set up a BreezeNET multi-hop cell: 1. Install an AP at the main office (refer to section 2, Basic Installation). 2. Install a WB at the remote site (refer to section 2, Basic Installation). 3. Install an AP-WB pair in a high location that has a clear line of sight to both the main office and the remote site. Many AP-WB pairs can form a chain. 4. When an AP and WB communicate over the wireless LAN, set them both to the same ESSID. For example, set the AP of the main office and the WB of the first AP-WB relay pair to the same ESSID. Also, set the AP of the last AP-WB relay and the WB of the remote site to the same ESSID; this ESSID should be different from the first ESSID. Another option is to use one ESSID, and to set the Preferred AP parameter of each WB to its paired AP (refer to section 3.4.3). This option allows stations to roam between the sites. 5. As usual, make sure that the hopping sequence of the Access Points are different.
Planning and Installing Wireless LANs BreezeNET PRO.11 Series 4-12 User’s Guide Figure 5.6: Multihop Configuration 6. If desired, an additional AP may be added at the main office and remote site, and between each AP-WB pair to provide wireless LANs at those points (see illustration). Figure 5.7: Advanced Multihop Configuration 7. Install Station Adapters or SA-PCR Cards on workstations (refer to section 2, Basic Installation).
Planning and Installing Wireless LANs BreezeNET PRO.11 Series 4-13 User’s Guide 4.2. Outdoor Installation Considerations This chapter describes various considerations to take into account when planning an outdoor installation including site selection, antenna alignment, antenna diversity, antenna polarization, antenna seal, and cell size. 4.2.1. Site Selection Factors When selecting a location for external antennas, remember to take into consideration the following guidelines: • Minimum distance between sites • Maximum height above the ground • Maximum line of sight clearance • Maximum separation between antennas (diversity option) Path of Clearest Propagation A propagation path is the path that signals traverse between the antennas of any two bridges. The “line” between two antenna sites is an imaginary straight line which may be drawn between the two antennas. Any obstacles in the path of the “line” degrade the propagation path. The best propagation path is, therefore, a clear line of sight with good clearance between the “line” and any physical obstacle. Physical Obstacles Any physical object in the path between two bridges can cause signal attenuation. Common obstructions are buildings and trees. If a bridge’s antenna is installed indoors, the walls and/or windows between the two sites are physical obstructions. If the antenna is positioned outdoors, any buildings or other physical structure such as trees, mountains or other natural geographic features higher than the antenna and situated in the path between the two sites can constitute obstructions. Install indoor antennas as close as possible to a window (or wall if a window is not accessible) facing the required direction. Avoid metal obstacles such as metal window frames or metal film anti-glare windows in the transmission path. Install outdoor antennas high enough to avoid any obstacles which may block the signal.
Planning and Installing Wireless LANs BreezeNET PRO.11 Series 4-14 User’s Guide Minimal Path Loss Path loss is determined mainly by several factors: • Distance between sites Path loss is lower and system performance better when distances between sites are shorter. • Clearance Path loss is minimized when there exists a clear line of sight. The number, location, size, and makeup of obstacles determine their contribution to path loss. • Antenna height Path loss is lower when antennas are positioned higher. Antenna height is the distance from the imaginary line connecting the antennas at the two sites to “ground” level. “Ground” level in an open area is the actual ground. In dense urban areas, “ground” level is the average height of the buildings between the antenna sites. 4.2.2. Rooftop Installation Warning: Rooftop antenna installations are extremely dangerous! Incorrect installation may result in death, serious injury and/or damage. Such installations should be performed by professional antenna installers only! Rooftop installations offer several advantages: • Increased antenna range. • Less obstacles in path. • Improved performance due to greater height. • Reduced multipath problems. 4.2.3. Antennas for Outdoor Applications The BreezeNET PRO.11 Series can be used in point-to-point or point-to-multipoint configurations.
Planning and Installing Wireless LANs BreezeNET PRO.11 Series 4-15 User’s Guide 4.2.3.1 Point-to-Point A point-to-point link is based on the use of one Access Point with external antennas and one adapter (SA-10/40D, WB-10D). The AP and the WB must be equipped with one or two directional antennas. The necessary antenna gain depends on the required range and performance. 4.2.3.2 Point-to-Multipoint Setting up a point-to-multipoint link requires the use of an AP-10D equipped with omni-directional antennas and a remote WB-10D (or SA-10/40D) equipped with high-gain directional antennas. 4.2.3.3 Antenna Alignment Low gain antennas do not require alignment due to their very wide radiation pattern. High gain antennas have a narrow beamwidth necessitating an alignment procedure in order to optimize the link. Check antenna alignment by using the LED indicators on the front panel of whichever adapter is used in the link (WB-10D or SA-10/40D). These LED indicators provide indication of reception quality. ÞÞ To perform antenna alignment: 1. Assemble antennas according to the assembly instructions included with the antenna set. 2. Mount the antennas as high as possible. 3. Connect the coaxial cable to the AP at the main site. 4. Connect the coaxial cable to the WB (or SA) at the remote site. 5. Power on the AP and the WB (or SA). 6. Synchronize the units by aligning the antennas manually until the WLNK indicator LED on the front panel of the wireless Bridge and/or Station Adapter illuminates. 7. Align antennas at the main and remote sites until maximum signal quality is obtained. (Check QLT LEDs on the front panel of the Station Adapter and the wireless Bridge.)
Planning and Installing Wireless LANs BreezeNET PRO.11 Series 4-16 User’s Guide If the received signal quality is lower than expected for this antenna/range combination, change antenna height and verify RF cables connections. 4.2.3.4 Antenna Diversity In applications where no multipath propagation is expected, a single antenna is sufficient to ensure good performance levels. However, in cases where multipath propagation exists, BreezeCOM recommends that two antennas be used. This takes advantage of space diversity capabilities. By using two antennas per unit, the system can select the best antenna on a per-packet basis (every several milliseconds). Multipath propagation is to be expected when there are potential reflectors between the main and remote sites. These reflectors may be buildings or moving objects such as airplanes and motor vehicles. If this is the case, the radio signal does not travel in a straight line, but is reflected or deflected off of the object, creating multiple propagation paths. When installing a single antenna, modify the transmit antenna option to either antenna 1 or antenna 2, according to the antenna being used (refer to section 3.4.3). Note: Only antennas from Table 1 FCC Type Acceptance Configurations can be used. 4.2.3.5 Antenna Polarization Antenna polarization must be the same at either end of the link. In most applications, the preferred orientation is vertical polarization. Above-ground propagation of the signal is better when it is polarized vertically. To verify antenna polarization, refer to the assembly instructions supplied with the antenna set. 4.2.4. Antenna Seal When using outdoor antennas, you must seal the antenna connectors against rain. Otherwise the antennas are not suitable for use in outdoor installations. 4.2.5. Cell Size Cell size is determined by the maximum possible distance between the Access Point and the Station Adapter, usually related to point-to-multipoint installations using external antennas. For open outdoor areas with an unobstructed line of sight between the Access Point and the BreezeNET
Planning and Installing Wireless LANs BreezeNET PRO.11 Series 4-17 User’s Guide PRO.11 workstation, the suggested maximum distance between Access Point and workstation is: Standard AP-10 PRO.11..........................700m (2000 ft.) 4.2.6. Link Distance Link distance is the maximum distance between the AP and the station adapter, usually related to point-to-point installations using external antennas. For open outdoor areas with an unobstructed line of sight between the Access Point and the wireless bridge, the suggested maximum distance is: AP-10D PRO.11 with external antennas.......up to 10Km (7 miles) in the USA Note: The maximum distance of 10Km/7 miles is achieved using 24 dBi antennas. 4.2.7. Using Outdoor Range Tables Outdoor installations must have a clear line-of-sight. Solid obstacles such as buildings or hills prevent the establishment of a link. Partial obstacles such as trees or traffic can reduce range. Extending coaxial cables can cause an increase in assembly signal loss and a reduction in range. The ranges in the following tables are attained under good propagating conditions when using the standard cables supplied in the antenna set. Actual ranges may vary due to specific multipath and interference conditions. For specific range guidelines and information about extending cables, consult your local dealer or BreezeCOM central offices. Ranges are subject to change without notice.
Planning and Installing Wireless LANs BreezeNET PRO.11 Series 4-18 User’s Guide 4.3. Precautions 4.3.1. Professional Installers Only Caution: Detached antennas, whether installed indoors or out, should be installed ONLY by experienced antenna installation professionals who are familiar with local building and safety codes and, wherever applicable, are licensed by the appropriate government regulatory authorities. Failure to do so may void the BreezeNET Product Warranty and may expose the end user to legal and financial liabilities. BreezeCOM and its resellers or distributors are not liable for injury, damage or violation of government regulations associated with the installation of detached antennas. 4.3.2. Transmit Antenna Gain Regulations regarding maximum antenna gains vary from country to country. It is the responsibility of the end user to operate within the limits of these regulations and to ensure that the professional installer is aware of these regulations, as well. The FCC in the United States and ETSI in Europe limit effective transit power See the EUT output power table for the appropriate power levels. Violation of government regulations exposes the end user to legal and financial liabilities. BreezeCOM and its resellers and distributors shall not be liable for expense or damage incurred as a result of installations which exceed local transmit gain limitations. 4.3.3. Lightning Protection Lightning protection is designed to protect people, property and equipment by providing a path to ground for the lightning’s energy. The lightning arrestor diverts the strike energy to ground through a deliberate and controlled path instead of allowing it to choose a random path. Lightning protection for a building is more forgiving than protection of electronic
Planning and Installing Wireless LANs BreezeNET PRO.11 Series 4-19 User’s Guide devices. A building can withstand up to 100,000 volts, but electronic equipment may be damaged by just a few volts. Lightning protection entails connecting an antenna discharge unit (also called an arrestor) to each cable as close as possible to the point where it enters the building. It also entails proper grounding of the arrestors and of the antenna mast (if the antenna is connected to one). The lightning arrestor should be installed and grounded at the point where the cable enters the building. The arrestor is connected to the unit at one end and to the antenna at the other end. The professional installer you choose must be knowledgeable about lightning protection. The installer must install the lightning protector in a way that maximizes lightning protection. BreezeCOM offers the following high-quality lightning arrestor assembly: BreezeNET AL 1 Lightning Arrestor - Part No. 872905 5 ft (1.5m), “N” Male to “N” Female. 4.3.4. Rain Proofing Antennas must be sealed against rain at the point the cable enters the pole before they are suitable for external use.

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