Airlink101 AWLH4030 Network Card User Manual


 
6
Installation Considerations
Designed to traverse distances up to 900 feet (~300 meters), the 108Mbps SuperG
Wireless PCI Adapter lets you access your network from your computer virtually
anywhere you want. Keep in mind, however, that the number and thickness of walls,
ceilings or other objects that the wireless signals must pass through may limit the range.
Typical ranges vary depending on the types of materials and background RF noise in your
home or business. The key to maximizing the transmission range is to follow these basic
principles:
1. Keep the number of walls and ceilings between the Access Point and your receiving
device to a minimum - Each wall or ceiling can reduce your Wireless product’s range
from 3-90 feet (1-30 meters.) For some businesses or for a large residential home
deployment, it may be beneficial to have more than one access point with overlapping
coverage.
2. Be aware of the direct line between Access Points and computers with wireless cards -
A wall that is 1.5 feet thick (.5 meters), at a 45-degree angle appears to be almost 3
feet (1 meter) thick. At a 2-degree angle it looks as if it were over 42 feet (14 meters)
thick! Try to make sure that the Access Points and Cards are positioned so that the
signal will travel in as straight a line through a wall or ceiling as possible for better
reception.
3. Building Materials make a difference - A solid metal door or aluminum studs can have
a negative effect on range. Try to position Access Points and computers with wireless
cards so that the signal passes through drywall or open doorways and not other
materials.
4. Make sure that the antenna is positioned for best reception by using the software
signal strength tools included with your 108Mbps SuperG Wireless PCI Adapter.
5. Keep your product away (at least 3-6 feet or 1-2 meters) from electrical devices or
appliances that generate RF noise.
For the average residence, range should not be a problem. If you experience low or no
signal strength in areas of your home that you wish to access, consider positioning the
Access Point in a location directly between the computers with wireless cards that will be
connected. Additional Access Points can be connected to provide better coverage in
rooms where the signal does not appear as strongly as desired.