Install the Access Point

This chapter outlines the pre-installation checks and detailed tasks necessary for completing the installation of the Cisco Wireless 9179F Wi-Fi 7 Access Point.

Package contents

Each standard shipment of the Cisco Wireless 9179F Wi-Fi 7 Access Point includes:

  • Cisco Wireless 9179F Wi-Fi 7 Access Point (with Indoor Environment Pack (CW-ACC-9179-A-00) pre-installed)

  • Grounding lug kit with oxide inhibitor

  • CDOC flyer

Separate orderable accessories

These accessories are available as separate orderable items for CW9179F:

Table 1. Orderable accessories

Accessory

PID

Articulating wall/pole mount bracket

 CW-MNT-ART3

Outdoor Environment Pack (IP65/ IP67 cover, glands)

 CW-ACC-9179-B-00

Indoor Environment Pack

 CW-ACC-9179-A-00

Solar shield kit (required for 45–50°C outdoor)

 CW-ACC-9179-CVR

Quick Connect Cable

 CW-ACC-QCKCNCT1

N-Type to RPTNC adapter connectors (x4)

 CW-ACC-N2RPTNC

Unpack the access point

Procedure

Step 1

Unpack and remove the access point and the selected mounting accessory kit.

Step 2

Return the packing material to the shipping container and save it for future use.

Step 3

Verify that you have received all the items you ordered. If any item is missing or is damaged, contact your Cisco representative or reseller for instructions.

Preinstallation Configuration - Cisco Catalyst Mode

Controller Discovery Process

To support the AP, the controller must be running Cisco IOS XE 17.18.1 or a later release.

Guidelines and Limitations

  • It is not possible to edit or query an access point using the controller CLI if the name of the access point contains a space.

  • Make sure that the controller is set to the current time. If the controller is set to a time that has already occurred, the access point might not join the controller because its certificate may not be valid for that time.

The AP must discover the controller before it can become an active part of the network. The AP supports the following controller discovery processes:

  • Locally stored controller IP address discovery: If the access point was previously joined to a controller, the IP addresses of the primary, secondary, and tertiary controllers are stored in the access point's nonvolatile memory. This process of storing controller IP addresses on an access point for later deployment is called priming the access point.

  • DHCP server discovery: This feature uses DHCP Option 43 to provide controller IP addresses to the access points. Cisco switches support a DHCP server option that is typically used for this capability. For more information about DHCP Option 43, see Configure DHCP Option 43.

  • DNS discovery: The access point can discover controllers through your domain name server (DNS). For the access point to do so, you must configure your DNS to return controller IP addresses in response to CISCO-CAPWAP-CONTROLLER.localdomain, where localdomain is the access point domain name. Configuring the CISCO-CAPWAP-CONTROLLER provides backwards compatibility in an existing customer deployment. When an access point receives an IP address and DNS information from a DHCP server, it contacts the DNS to resolve CISCO-CAPWAP-CONTROLLER.localdomain. When the DNS sends a list of controller IP addresses, the access point sends discovery requests to these controllers.

Perform a preinstallation configuration - Cisco Catalyst mode

Performing a preinstallation configuration is an optional procedure. If your network controller is properly configured, you can install your AP in its final location and connect it to the network from there.

The illustration shows the preinstallation configuration setup:

To perform preinstallation configuration for the AP in Cisco Catalyst mode, follow these steps:

Before you begin

Ensure that the Cisco Controller Distribution System (DS) port is connected to the network. Use the procedure for CLI or GUI, as described in the release-appropriate Cisco Catalyst 9800 Series Wireless Controller Software Configuration Guide.

  • Enable Layer 3 connectivity between APs, Cisco Controller Management, and AP-Manager interface.

  • Configure the switch to which your AP has to attach. See the Cisco Wireless Controller Configuration Guide for the release you are using, for additional information.

  • Ensure that the DHCP is enabled on the network. The AP must receive its IP address through DHCP.


    Note
    An AP is assigned an IP address from the DHCP server only if a default router (gateway) is configured on the DHCP server (enabling the AP to receive its gateway IP address) and the gateway ARP is resolved.

  • CAPWAP UDP ports must not be blocked in the network.

  • The AP must be able to find the IP address of the controller. This can be accomplished using DHCP, DNS, or IP subnet broadcast. This guide describes the DHCP method to convey the controller IP address. For other methods, see the product documentation. See also Configure DHCP Option 43 for more information.

Procedure

Step 1

Power the AP using a supported power source.

See Power the access point.

  • The AP checks for cloud connectivity and attempts to connect to the Meraki dashboard.

  • If the AP is unable to find cloud connectivity, it uses fast offline migration to look for a Cisco Catalyst 9800 Controller. The AP uses DHCP, DNS, and L2 discovery mechanisms for the migration. For more information, see Global use access points.

    Note

     

    The AP should not have cloud connectivity from its subnet if it intends to connect to a controller. If the AP joins a Meraki Dashboard, it can be later migrated to a controller.

Once the AP discovers the controller, it performs a firmware image download and reboots.

Step 2

If the preinstallation configuration is successful, the Status LED is green, indicating normal operation. Disconnect the AP and mount it on the location at which you intend to deploy it on the wireless network.

Step 3

If your AP does not indicate normal operation, turn it off and repeat the preinstallation configuration.

Note

 
When you are installing a Layer 3 access point on a subnet that is different from the Catalyst 9800 controller, ensure that the following setup is configured:

  • A DHCP server is reachable from the subnet on which you plan to install the AP.

  • The subnet has a route back to the controller.

  • This route has destination UDP ports 5246 and 5247 open for CAPWAP communications.

  • The route back to the primary, secondary, and tertiary controller allows IP packet fragments.

  • If address translation is used, the access point and the controller have a static 1-to-1 NAT to an outside address. Port Address Translation is not supported.

Preinstallation checks and installation guidelines

Before you mount and deploy your access point, we recommend that you perform a site survey (or use the Site Planning tool) to determine the best location to install your access point.

You should have the following information about your wireless network available:

  • Access point locations

  • Access point mounting options:

    • Mast or pole

    • Wall or flat surface


    Caution

    Verify that the mounting structure supports at least 50 lb (22.7 kg) of static weight.

  • Access point power options: Use either of the following options to power the access point:

    • Cisco-approved power injector

    • PoE with a supporting switch


    Note

    • The Underwriter Laboratories (UL)-approved Listed Power Adapter must meet the following minimum specifications: Rated output of 42.5 to 57 Vdc, min. 1.25-0.93A, Tma of 50°C minimum, altitude of 3048m minimum.

    • If 802.3af is used, all the radios get switched off. Ethernet gets downgraded to 1 GbE. The Wi-Fi client serving radios and IoT radio are switched off.

  • Indoor operating temperature range

    • CW9179F: 32°F to 122°F (0°C to 50°C)


    Note
    When installing the access point in an environment where the ambient temperature is in the range of 104°and 122°F (>40° and 50°C), the access point configuration changes.

    • 802.3bt: Radios scale to 2x2, both the Ethernet ports links remains at 10G

    • 802.3at: Radios scale to 2x2, the Ethernet port 0 link remains at 10G, Ethernet port 1 is disabled

  • Console access using the console port

    We recommend that you use a console cable that is one meter or less in length.


    Note
    The access point may face issues while booting if you use an unterminated console cable (not plugged into any device or terminal) or a console cable that is more than one meter in length.

We recommend that you make a site map showing access point locations so that you can record the device MAC addresses from each location and return them to the person who is planning or managing your wireless network.

Preinstallation Configuration - Cisco Meraki Mode

Perform a preinstallation configuration - Cisco Meraki mode

This is a brief overview only of the steps required to add the CW9179F access point to your network. For more information about creating, configuring and managing Meraki wireless networks, see the Cisco Meraki documentation.

Before you begin

You should complete these steps before going on-site to perform an installation.

Follow these steps to configure dashboard network.

Procedure

Step 1

Log in to Cisco Meraki dashboard. If this is your first time, create a new account.

Step 2

Find the network to which you plan to add your APs or create a new network.

Step 3

Add your APs to your network. You will need your Meraki order number (found on your invoice) or the Cloud ID of each AP, which looks like Qxxx-xxxx-xxxx, and is found on the bottom of the unit. You will also need your license key, which you should have received via email.

Step 4

Go to the map or floor plan view and place each AP on the map by clicking and dragging it to the location where you plan to mount it.

Warning

 

If the Networks in the Organization where the CW9179F is to be installed have Meraki Sensors, it is required to create a separate network for the CW9179F for staging purposes. Once the CW9179F connects to the cloud and updates the new firmware, then the AP can be moved to the network where the CW9179F needs to operate.

What to do next

For more information about onboarding access points, see Wireless Access Points Quick Start Guide.

Install the access point

The CW9179F access point offers versatile mounting options for both indoor and outdoor environments. You can install the CW9179F access point on a pole or wall.


Tip

We recommend adhering to all safety and regulatory guidelines throughout the installation process.

Complete these steps to install CW9179F.

Before you begin

  • Decide on a mounting location.

    The Access Point should be mounted clear of any obstructions to the side or front of the enclosure, which contains the radiating elements. Remember to aim this Access Point at the intended coverage area. Therefore, you should mount the Access Point and adjust it to achieve the desired mechanical tilt.


    Caution

    As with all the outdoor installations, you must install the antenna with cables exiting downward which helps prevent water from accumulating around the cable exit points.

  • These items are required for installation and must be sourced separately:

    • Mount Kit components

    • Tools required for mounting

      • Safety tether (not supplied; must meet local safety requirements)

    • M13 wrench and socket tools

    • Bolts and anchors for wall mounting (must support a 50 lb static load)

    • Dielectric grease (used with Outdoor Environment Pack)

  • Accessories

    • Articulation Mount Kit: CW-MNT-ART3

    • Solar Shield Kit: CW-ACC-9179-CVR-00

    • Quick Connect Cable: CW-ACC-QCKCNCT1​

    • N-Type or RP-TNC Adapter Connector: CW-ACC-N2RPTNC​

This table lists the standard mounting hardware supported by CW9179F.

Table 2. Mounting hardware

Mounting Hardware

Description

Surface

Pole or Mast

Articulating mount bracket, supports ±60° azimuth/elevation, 75mm x 75mm VESA pattern, stainless hardware

Ceiling or Wall (flat)

 Use as above; mount with M8 screws/anchors (not supplied)

Hardware Kits

Outdoor/IP65 and IP67

Outdoor Environment Pack with glanded cover

Solar Shield

Solar shield kit used for direct sun exposure and ambient temperatures above 45° C

External Antenna use

N-Type to RPTNC adapter kit (required for some external antennas)

Quick Connect Cable

Ethernet quick connect dongle for pre-installation

Procedure

Step 1

Change environment pack (if outdoor pack is ordered).

Step 2

Install Quick Connect Cable (if ordered).

Step 3

Mount the access point.

Step 4

Secure the access point with a safety tether.

Step 5

Ground the access point.

Step 6

Install Ethernet cables.

Required tools and equipment

Important safety instructions


DANGER

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS: Before you work on any equipment, be aware of the hazards involved with electrical circuitry and be familiar with standard practices for preventing accidents. Read the installation instructions before using, installing, or connecting the system to the power source.

Use the statement number provided at the end of each warning statement to locate its translation in the translated safety warnings for this device. SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS Statement 1071


DANGER

Only skilled person should be allowed to install, replace, or service this equipment. Refer to Statement 1089 for description of skilled person. Statement 1090


DANGER

To reduce the risk of electric shock, refer to national and local codes for proper installation and grounding of antennas. Statement 1052


DANGER

To reduce the risk of electric shock, the chassis of this equipment needs to be connected to permanent earth ground during normal use. Statement 0445


Caution
The fasteners and the mounting surface should be capable of maintaining a minimum pullout force of 150 pounds (68 kg) to support the weight of the antenna and bracket, along with the potential wind loading on the antenna.

Caution
The pole or mast must be rigid enough to hold the weight of the antenna along with the associated forces produced by wind loads. Also, the pole or mast must be structurally strong enough to withstand the clamping force of the hose clamps.

Mounting accessories

Before you mount the AP, go through the supported mounting procedures and ensure that you have all tools and fasteners mentioned therein ready. The following is a general list of fasteners and tools not included in the antenna and brackets kit:

  • To mount the antenna on a wall or ceiling, you need four mounting M8 screws or bolts and wall anchors.

  • To mount the antenna on a pole or mast, you may need either or both of these supplies:

    • A slotted screwdriver or a wrench to tighten the screws on the hose clamps

    • A Hex key to tighten set screws

Change the Environment Pack

The AP is shipped as an indoor unit and can be used immediately in indoor environments. However, if you plan to deploy the AP outdoors, it is necessary to install the Outdoor Environment Pack to ensure proper weatherproofing and protection.

Follow these steps to install the Outdoor Environment Pack and prepare your AP for outdoor use.

Before you begin

If you use the Quick Connect Cable, install it in place of the Ethernet cable during these steps.

Procedure

Step 1

Unscrew the Indoor Environment Pack. The screws are captive; do not remove them completely.

Figure 1. Unscrew Indoor Environment Pack

Step 2

Select and use the appropriate gland(s) based on your deployment needs. The options include:

  • Light Gray Gland: Ethernet cable diameter 6-7mm

  • Dark Gray Gland: Ethernet cable diameter 7-8 mm

Step 3

Apply dielectric grease to the Ethernet cable.

  1. Apply some dielectric grease inside the Ethernet port to help absorb moisture, especially for outdoor installations.

    If deploying outdoors, always apply dielectric grease and double-check that the gland and cover are properly sealed to prevent moisture ingress.

  2. Coat the cable to ensure a secure seal.

Note

 

Dielectric grease is not supplied with the access point or kit. We recommend that you use dielectric grease such as Dow DC4, Permatex Dielectric Tune-Up Grease, or MG Chemicals 8462, or an equivalent product.

Warning

 

Failure to use dielectric grease compromises water integrity and may damage your AP.
Figure 2. Apply dielectric grease

Step 4

Install the gland onto the Ethernet cable.

Step 5

Seal any open port positions on the gland with the provided plug to maintain water integrity.

Step 6

Insert the gland into the designated cavity.

Figure 3. Insert gland

Step 7

Slide the Ethernet cable upward and plug it into the Ethernet port of the device.

The AP will power on if the Ethernet cable is connected to a powered switch.

Step 8

Install the Outdoor Environment Pack.

  1. Ensure the screws are in the upright position.

  2. Pivot the flange and slide it into place.

    Figure 4. Slide in

  3. Press down on the protruding features of the cover so they fit into the rubber gland. Tighten the screws to secure the cover.

Step 9

Use a screwdriver, tighten the four screws on the cover in a cross pattern to ensure even and secure fastening.

Note

 

Tighten the screws in a cross-pattern (or diagonal pattern), as shown by the arrows. Alternate tightening opposing screws (e.g., top-left, then bottom-right; then top-right, then bottom-left) to ensure even pressure distribution and prevent the cover from warping or improper seating. Tighten each screw to a torque of 15–17 kgf-cm (13–14.8 lbf-in).

Figure 5. Secure Outdoor Environment Pack

What to do next

  • Ensure all connections are secure to maintain environmental protection, especially for outdoor deployments.

  • Take care not to over-tighten the screws to avoid damaging the cover or glands.

Mount the access point

CW9179F can be mounted in these places:

  • Pole

  • Overhanger

  • Rafter


Attention

Tether the access point and mounting hardware to a secure mounting surface using the tether anchor on the AP. The mounting kit does not include a tether strap.

Mounting tasks

Perform these mounting tasks.


Note

  • Always use the provided grounding hardware and ensure earth ground connection per local code.

  • For pole or mast installations, use included clamps and ensure mechanical integrity for wind loads.

  • For outdoor use, always install the outdoor environment pack (CW-ACC-9179-B-00) to maintain IP65 or IP67 rating.

  • Adjust azimuth or elevation using the articulation feature of the bracket for optimal coverage.

Mount kit contents

The CW9179F Mount Kit is a collection of hardware components such as necessary brackets, clamps, and fasteners. Use these components to help firmly attach CW9179F to a pole or a wall.

Figure 6. Mount kit
Table 3. Contents

Item #

Item

Quantity

1

ARM

1

2

Flange

2

3

Clamp Small

3

4

Clamp Large

2

5

Screw, Socket Head Cap, M8 x 180mm, Fully Threaded

2

6

Screw, Hex Head, M8 x 140mm

2

7

Screw,Hex Head Cap, M8 x 45mm

2

8

Screw, Hex Head, Serrated Flange, M8 x 25mm

2

9

Screw, Hex Head, Serrated Flange, M8 x 16mm

4

10

Nut, Serrated Flange, M8

6

11

Washer, Flat, OD 15.0mm, ID 8.4mm, Thickness 1.8mm


4

12

Washer, Split Lock, M8

2

13

Nut, Hex, M8

2
Figure 7. Wall mount flange

1

Pole mount bolt holes

2

Hose clamp holes

Mount to Small Pole with Arm and Bracket (2-axis pivot)

The arm is a key component that enables safe, stable, and adjustable mounting of Cisco Wireless 9179F Access Point onto small poles, ensuring optimal operation and ease of maintenance.

This task involves securely mounting the Cisco Wireless 9179F Access Point to a small pole using the recommended arm mount kit. The pole-mounting method is particularly useful for outdoor installations where wall or ceiling mounting is not feasible or optimal. Mounting the AP on a pole allows for flexible placement, maximizing signal coverage and minimizing physical obstructions.

Follow these steps to mount an arm bracket on a small pole.

Before you begin

Always use the hardware suitable for your specific pole diameter.

Figure 8. Bracket Mechanical Specifications

Procedure

Step 1

Secure the mounting flange to the back of the access point using the supplied screws.

  1. Place the mounting flange onto the designated area on the back of the access point.

  2. Align the holes of the mounting flange with the corresponding holes on the access point.

  3. Insert four hex bolts through the mounting flange and into the access point.

  4. Ensure all bolts are properly aligned and tighten them securely to fix the flange in place using a 13-mm wrench.

Figure 9. Secure mounting flange

Step 2

Assemble the arm bracket to the mounting flange by insert the main pivot bolt(s), washers and nuts through the mounting flange and the arm bracket.

Note

 

There are two sets of pole clamps and hardware to accommodate both large (76 mm–127 mm [3"–5"]) and small (50 mm–89 mm [2"–3"]) diameter poles.

Step 3

Install the 140mm long bolts and secure the arm bracket.

We recommend that you select the appropriate length clamp bolts as per the pole size.

  1. Slide the clamp bolts through the arm bracket.

  2. Add the washers and nuts, but do not fully tighten yet.

Note

 

The inset illustration highlights the correct order: the bolt and flat washer passes though flange, then a flat washer, then the nut.

Figure 10. Install bolts

Step 4

Place the assembly around the pole and adjust the bracket so it is level and properly positioned.

Figure 11. Place the assembly around the pole

Step 5

Secure the arm mount to the pole by tightening all fasteners securely, starting with the mounting flange, then the arm bracket, and finally the pole clamps.

Note

 

Use the correct order of hardware: flat washer, spring lock washer, and then bolt (as shown in the zoom-in detail).
Figure 12. Secure arm mount
Figure 13. Close-Up View of the Azimuth and Elevation-Adjustment Pivots

Step 6

Attach the access point (with the attached mounting flange) to the mounted arm assembly.

Figure 14. Attach the access point

Mount to Large Pole with Arm and Bracket (2-axis pivot)

The arm is a key component that enables safe, stable, and adjustable mounting of Cisco Wireless 9179F Access Point onto large poles, ensuring optimal operation and ease of maintenance.

This task involves securely mounting the Cisco Wireless 9179F Access Point to a large pole using the recommended arm mount kit. The pole-mounting method is particularly useful for outdoor installations where wall or ceiling mounting is not feasible or optimal. Mounting the AP on a pole allows for flexible placement, maximizing signal coverage and minimizing physical obstructions.

Follow these steps to mount an arm bracket on either a large pole.

Before you begin

Always use the hardware suitable for your specific pole diameter.

Figure 15. Bracket Mechanical Specifications

Procedure

Step 1

Secure the mounting flange to the back of the access point using the supplied screws.

  1. Place the mounting flange onto the designated area on the back of the access point.

  2. Align the holes of the mounting flange with the corresponding holes on the access point.

  3. Insert four hex bolts through the mounting flange and into the access point.

  4. Ensure all bolts are properly aligned and tighten them securely to fix the flange in place using a 13-mm wrench.

Figure 16. Secure mounting flange

Step 2

Assemble the mount flange to the a large clamp by inserting bolts throught flange and clamp and securing with nut.

Note

 

There are two sets of pole clamps and hardware to accommodate both large (76 mm–127 mm [3"–5"]) and small (50 mm–89 mm [2"–3"]) diameter poles.

Figure 17. Assemble the flange to clamp

Step 3

Install the 180mm long bolts and secure the arm bracket.

We recommend that you select the appropriate length clamp bolts as per the pole size.

  1. Slide the clamp bolts through the arm bracket.

  2. Add the washers and nuts, but do not fully tighten yet.

Note

 

The inset illustration highlights the correct order: the bolt passes through the bracket, then a flat washer, then the nut.

Figure 18. Install bolts

Step 4

Place the assembly around the pole and adjust the bracket so it is level and properly positioned.

Figure 19. Place the assembly around the pole

Step 5

Secure the arm mount to the pole by tightening all fasteners securely, starting with the mounting flange, then the arm bracket, and finally the pole clamps.

Note

 

Use the correct order of hardware: flat washer, spring lock washer, and then bold (as shown in the zoom-in detail).
Figure 20. Secure arm mount
Figure 21. Close-Up View of the Azimuth and Elevation-Adjustment Pivots

Step 6

Attach the access point (with the attached mounting flange) to the mounted arm assembly.

Figure 22. Attach the access point

Mount to a Small Pole without Arm (1-axis pivot)

Before you begin

The pole must be rigid enough to hold the weight of an antenna along with the associated forces produced by wind loads. In addition, the pole must be structurally strong enough to withstand the clamping force of the hose clamps.

Procedure

Step 1

Determine the mounting location for the access point on the pole.

Step 2

Position and mount the mounting flange bracket onto the pole using the accessories provided in the kit.

  1. Align the four holes on the mounting flange with the corresponding threaded inserts on the access point.

  2. Insert four bolts (with washers underneath their heads) through the holes in the mounting flange and into the access point.

  3. Tighten these four bolts to secure the mounting flange firmly to the access point.

Figure 23. Mount flange

Step 3

Assemble the short bolt and the long bolts for the pole clamp.

Secure each of all the bolts on the other side of the pole clamp with a nut to complete the attachment of the pole clamp to the mounting flange.

Figure 24. Assemble bolts

Step 4

With he mounting flange and pole clamp assembled, slide the pole clamp around the pole.

Figure 25. Slide pole clamp

Step 5

Secure the access point assembly without arm to the pole.

  1. With the pole clamp positioned around the pole (as shown in Step 4), bring the access point assembly (which includes the attached mounting flange and pole clamp) towards the pole.

  2. Insert a long bolt (with flat and lock washer) through the top hole of the bracket that extends from the access point assembly.

  3. Guide this bolt through the corresponding hole in the pole clamp and secure it with a nut on the other side. This final bolt secures the entire access point assembly to the pole.

Figure 26. Secure the access point

Step 6

Ensure that the antenna cannot rotate about the mast.

Step 7

Adjust the azimuth (side-to-side position) and the antenna’s elevation (up-and-down position).

Step 8

After adjusting the access point position, tighten all nuts at the pivot points to 25.0 +/- 1.0 Nm torque.

Step 9

Connect the Ethernet cable to the access point using the termination kit.

Mount to a Large Pole without Arm (1-axis pivot)

Before you begin

The pole must be rigid enough to hold the weight of an antenna along with the associated forces produced by wind loads. In addition, the pole must be structurally strong enough to withstand the clamping force of the hose clamps.

Procedure

Step 1

Determine the mounting location for the access point on the pole.

Step 2

Position and mount the mounting flange bracket onto the pole using the accessories provided in the kit.

  1. Align the four holes on the mounting flange with the corresponding threaded inserts on the access point.

  2. Insert four bolts (with washers underneath their heads) through the holes in the mounting flange and into the access point.

  3. Tighten these four bolts to secure the mounting flange firmly to the access point.

Figure 27. Mount flange

Step 3

Assemble the short bolt and the long bolts for the pole clamp.

Secure each of all the bolts on the other side of the pole clamp with a nut to complete the attachment of the pole clamp to the mounting flange.

Figure 28. Assemble bolts

Step 4

With he mounting flange and pole clamp assembled, slide the pole clamp around the pole.

Figure 29. Slide pole clamp

Step 5

Secure the access point assembly without arm to the pole.

  1. With the pole clamp positioned around the pole (as shown in Step 4), bring the access point assembly (which includes the attached mounting flange and pole clamp) towards the pole.

  2. Insert a long bolt (with flat and lock washer) through the top hole of the bracket that extends from the access point assembly.

  3. Guide this bolt through the corresponding hole in the pole clamp and secure it with a nut on the other side. This final bolt secures the entire access point assembly to the pole.

Figure 30. Secure the access point

Step 6

Ensure that the antenna cannot rotate about the mast.

Step 7

Adjust the azimuth (side-to-side position) and the antenna’s elevation (up-and-down position).

Step 8

After adjusting the access point position, tighten all nuts at the pivot points to 25.0 +/- 1.0 Nm torque.

Step 9

Connect the Ethernet cable to the access point using the termination kit.

Install solar shield

Install the Solar Shield accessory on an outdoor access point (AP) to reduce direct sun exposure and minimize heat load. The Solar Shield is generally not required for most installations, but is recommended for APs mounted in locations with direct, intense sunlight (e.g., desert environments).


Note

  • Ensure the shield is installed before AP is mounted for easier access.

  • Installation is optional and only necessary in environments with intense sun exposure and ambient temperatures exceeding 45° C.

  • Installation is recommended for APs exposed to direct sunlight for extended periods (for example, desert or high-heat locations).

Before you begin

Installation involves placing the shield on top of the access point and securing it with four included screws. No additional hardware or washers are necessary, and installation is simplified by pre-packaged components.

Parts are pre-packaged for easy identification and installation.

Procedure

Step 1

Unbox the Solar Shield and confirm all parts are present (shield and 4 screws).

Step 2

Lay the Solar Shield on top of the AP before mounting the AP onto its pole or surface.

Step 3

Secure the shield using the 4 provided screws (no additional hardware required).

Step 4

Proceed with the installation.

Ground the access point

In all installations, after mounting the access point, you must properly ground the unit before connecting power cables.


Warning

This equipment must be grounded. To reduce the risk of electric shock, never defeat the ground conductor or operate the equipment in the absence of a suitably installed ground conductor. Contact the appropriate electrical inspection authority or an electrician if you are uncertain that suitable grounding is available.


Warning

To reduce risk of electric shock or fire, installation of the equipment must comply with local and national electrical codes.

The access point is shipped with a grounding kit.

Figure 31. Access point grounding kit contents

1

Grounding lug

2

Screws x 2, M4 x 6mm

Note

The grounding kit also includes the oxide inhibitor, which is contained in a tube.

Warning

Apply the oxide inhibitor only to the ground lug surface.

To ground the access point:

Procedure

Step 1

Use a crimping tool to crimp a 6-AWG (13.3 mm2) ground wire (not included in the grounding kit) to the ground lug.

Step 2

Connect the supplied ground lug to the access point ground connection point using the supplied screws. Apply supplied oxide inhibitor between the ground lug and the access point ground connection.

1

AP ground connection point

Step 3

Tighten the screws to 20-25 inch-lbs of torque.

Step 4

If necessary, strip the other end of the ground wire and connect it to a reliable earth ground such as a grounding rod or appropriate ground point on a grounded pole. Length of the ground cable should not exceed 1 meter, and 0.5 meter is preferred. Use supplied oxide inhibitor on the grounded interface.

Power the access point


Caution
Ensure that the AP is powered using a Underwriters' Laboratories-compliant (UL-compliant) PoE power source. You must connect the unit only to the PoE network, without routing to the outside plant.

Input power requirements

  • 802.3bt Cisco Universal PoE (Cisco UPOE®), 802.3at Power over Ethernet Plus (PoE+), 802.3af PoE (only for configuring staging, all radios off)

  • (Or) Cisco Power Injector – CW-INJ-8

Table 4. Input power requirements

Power Source

2.4-GHz radio

5-GHz radio

6-GHz radio

Link speed

Max PoE power consumption

802.bt (Class 6) (UPOE)

4x4

4x4(LB) + 4x4(HB)

4x4

2x 10G

47W

802.3at (PoE+) (Quad Radio mode)

2x2

2x2 (LB) + 2x2 (HB)

2x2

2x 2.5G

25.5W

802.3at (POE+) (Tri Radio Mode)

2x2

4x4 (FB)

2x2

2x 1G

25.5W

802.3af (PoE)

—

—

—

1x 1G

13.95W

Note

  • Actual power consumption may vary depending on access point usage. It is recommended that you ensure that Link Layer Discovery Protocol (LLDP)/Cisco Discovery Protocol is enabled to allow proper power negotiation.

  • FB is Full Band, LB is Lower UNII Bands (UNII 1 and 2) and HB is Higher UNII Bands (UNII 2E and 3).

Deploy the access point on a wireless network

After you mount the access point, follow these steps to deploy it on a wireless network:

Procedure

Step 1

Connect and power up the access point.

Step 2

Observe the access point LED.

For LED status descriptions, see LED status indications for access point.

  • When you power up the access point, it begins a power-up sequence that you can verify by observing the access point LED. If the power-up sequence is successful, the discovery and join process begins. During this process, the LED blinks green, red, and off sequentially. When the access point joins a controller, the LED is green if no clients are associated, or blue if one or more clients are associated.

  • If the LED is not on, it is most likely that the access point is not receiving power.

  • If the LED blinks sequentially for more than five minutes, the access point is unable to find its primary, secondary, and tertiary controller. Check the connection between the access point and the Cisco Wireless Controller, and be sure that the access point and the Cisco Wireless Controller are either on the same subnet or that the access point has a route back to its primary, secondary, and tertiary Cisco Wireless Controller. Also, if the access point is not on the same subnet as the Cisco Wireless Controller, ensure that there is a properly configured DHCP server on the same subnet as the access point.