Table Of Contents
Network Configuration Examples
Repeater Unit That Extends Wireless Range
Central Unit in an All-Wireless Network
Overview
The Cisco Aironet access point is a wireless LAN transceiver that serves as the center point of a stand-alone wireless network or as the connection point between wireless and wired networks. In large installations, wireless users within radio range of an access point can roam throughout a facility while maintaining uninterrupted access to the network.
This chapter provides information on the following topics:
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Key features
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Key Features
This section describes the key features of the access point:
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Inline Power
Cisco Aironet 350 series access points receive power through the Ethernet cable, so you do not need to run a separate power cord to the access point. Plug the Ethernet cable into the Ethernet port on the back of the access point and plug the other end into one of three possible power sources:
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Note
Caution
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Caution
Omni-Directional Antennas
The access point's omni-directional, 2.2 dBi antennas provide diversity coverage for your wireless LAN area. Diversity coverage helps maintain a clear radio signal between the access point and wireless client devices. Just as you can improve signal clarity on your car radio at a stoplight by creeping ahead a few inches, the access point can improve signal quality by choosing the antenna that is receiving the best signal from a client device.
Some access points models are equipped with dual reverse-polarity TNC connectors that you can use to connect to your own antennas for special applications.
Ethernet and Serial Ports
Ethernet Port
The access point's Ethernet port accepts an RJ-45 connector, linking the access point to your 10/100 Ethernet LAN. The 350 series access point receives power through the Ethernet cable from a switch with inline power, from a power patch panel, or from the access point's power injector.
Serial Port
The access point's serial port provides console access to the access point's management system. Use a nine-pin, straight-through, male-to-female serial cable to connect your computer's COM 1 or COM 2 port to the access point's serial port. Assign the following port settings to a terminal emulator to open the management system pages: 9600 baud, 8 data bits, No parity, 1 stop bit, and Xon/Xoff flow control.
Metal Enclosure
The 350 series metal case access point contains a metal enclosure having adequate fire resistance and low smoke-producing characteristics suitable for operation in a building's environmental air space in accordance with Section 300-22(c) of the NEC. The 350 series metal case access point also supports an industrial temperature operating range.
Indicators
The three indicators on top of the access point report Ethernet activity, association status, and radio activity. The indicators are labeled in Figure 1-1 and Figure 1-2.
Figure 1-1 Indicators on the 340 and 350 Series Access Point
Figure 1-2 Indicators on the 350 Series Metal Case Access Point
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Network Configuration Examples
This section describes the access point's role in three common wireless network configurations. The access point's default configuration is as a root unit on a wired LAN. The other two possible roles, repeater unit and central unit in an all-wireless network, require specific changes to the default configuration.
Root Unit on a Wired LAN
An access point connected directly to a wired LAN provides a connection point for wireless users. If more than one access point is connected to the LAN, users can roam from one area of a facility to another without losing their connection to the network. As users move out of range of one access point, they automatically connect to the network (associate) through another access point. The roaming process is seamless and transparent to the user. Figure 1-3 shows access points acting as root units on a wired LAN.
Figure 1-3 Access Points as Root Units on a Wired LAN
Repeater Unit That Extends Wireless Range
An access point can be configured as a stand-alone repeater to extend the range of your infrastructure or to overcome an obstacle that blocks radio communication. The repeater forwards traffic between wireless users and the wired LAN by sending packets to either another repeater or to an access point connected to the wired LAN. The data is sent through the route that provides the greatest performance for the client. Figure 1-4 shows an access point acting as a repeater.
Figure 1-4 Access Point as Repeater
Central Unit in an All-Wireless Network
In an all-wireless network, an access point acts as a stand-alone root unit. The access point is not attached to a wired LAN; it functions as a hub linking all stations together. The access point serves as the focal point for communications, increasing the communication range of wireless users. Figure 1-5 shows an access point in an all-wireless network.
Figure 1-5 Access Point as Central Unit in All-Wireless Network
Access Point Specifications
Table 1-1 lists specifications for the access point.
