Roaming Network; Roaming Modes - Crestron TPMC-3X Operation Manual

Isys™ 2.8" Handheld WiFi Touchpanel
44 • Isys™ 2.8" Handheld WiFi Touchpanel: TPMC-3X
The best WAP performance will be achieved with a CEN-WAP, as the TPMC-3X
and CEN-WAP have been configured through firmware to provide the best battery
life and optimal range.
When uninterrupted roaming is desired, only managed wireless networks should be
used. This means systems similar to Cisco LWAPP (Light Weight Access Point
Protocol) controllers should be installed and configured by qualified personnel.
Autonomous access points that do not speak to each other to share authentication or
wireless information are not recommended and will not allow for seamless roaming.
Outages may occur in this type of configuration.

Roaming Network

A proper, uninterrupted roaming environment consists of multiple access points,
network devices and wireless clients that work together to provide a means for
managing client transitions. This involves much more than simply installing several
access points with the same SSID, with the same authentication protocols. A well
designed roaming system is aware of the air space and its neighbors and manages
that space to provide constantly changing specifications that adapt to anything that
might enter its environment.
These WLAN systems use different methods to provide management of the wireless
client throughout the air space and make sure each unit that connects to the network
is authenticated network wide. Crestron has tested Cisco LWAPP units with the
TPMC-3X units. Although other manufacturers make similar equipment, Cisco gear
has been specifically tested and approved to work with the TPMC-3X.
Crestron strongly recommends the use of this type of network equipment if
uninterrupted roaming is required for the TPMC-3X and that it be set up by qualified
manufacturer certified technicians.
It is strongly recommended that the typical usage area of the TPMC-3X contain an
access point and that this area is not considered a roaming zone, where multiple
access points service this primary location.

Roaming Modes

There are two modes available on the TPMC-3X which allow you to customize the
unit for your particular location and access point solution. For use with a CEN-WAP,
Crestron recommends the High Performance mode. Refer to "Performance Options"
on page 20.
•
High Performance mode (default):
Always ready for use, with instantaneous response to any button press.
Allows advanced power management. Requires CEN-WAP access point or
compatible third-party access point.
•
Extended Battery Life mode:
Allows TPMC-3X to conserve power by powering down its Wi-Fi circuit
when not in use. Requires additional re-initialization time upon restart to
locate network, re-authenticate and obtain DHCP addresses.
Some third-party access points do not support the High Performance mode and may
cause premature TPMC-3X battery drainage. Extended Battery Life mode can
significantly improve battery life with some third-party access points, at the expense
of slightly delayed touchpanel response when re-initializing. Using DHCP instead of
static IP addresses can serve to reduce this delay. (Refer to IP Config" on page 19.)
Crestron TPMC-3X
Operations Guide – DOC. 6789F