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Choosing a Wireless Network Configuration
1-2
Choosing a Wireless Network Configuration
The antennas you need depend on the wireless network configuration:
• LAN-to-LAN, Point-to-Point
This is a wireless link between two APs that connects two separate wired LANs.
Typically, two directional antennas are used.
• LAN-to-LAN, Point-to-Multipoint
In a point-to-multipoint network, up to seven APs provide wireless links to connect up
to seven LANs. One AP is designated as the central (multipoint) AP. The other APs
are called endpoints and only communicate with the Central AP. Typically, the Central
AP connects to an omni-directional antenna. The endpoint APs connect to a directional
antenna.
• Wireless Infrastructure
This is an inside/outside wireless network where one or more APs are used to connect
clients to a wired LAN. Typically, the APs use an omni-directional antenna or a
sectored antenna, and the clients use a vehicle-mount antenna. An example of this type
of network is a warehouse where drivers in forklifts need to access the LAN.
Determining the Antenna Locations
The locations where the antennas can be placed relative to one another and the distance
between them are based on the following factors:
• Type of antennas. The RoamAbout antennas are described in the “Antenna Options”
section on page 1-9.
• Length of cable from the antenna to the AP.
• Data rate required.
• Obstructions in the signal path.
• Type of RoamAbout PC Card.
• In a LAN-to-LAN network, the distance between the buildings.
• In a wireless infrastructure network, the area around the antenna where clients need to
communicate with the AP.
NOTE: Slot 2 of the RoamAbout R2 does not support Multipoint
mode.
NOTE