Installation Consideration - Airlink101 AWLH3026 User Manual

1.2 Installation Consideration

Designed to traverse distances up to 900 feet (~300 meters), the 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
Adapters – 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 the wall will appear as if it were
over 42 feet (14 meters) thick! Try to make sure that the Access Points and Wireless
Adapters 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 Adapters 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 Wireless
Utility included with your Wireless PCI Adapter to monitor the Signal Strength and
Link Quality.
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 central location between the computers with the Wireless Adapters.
Additional Access Points can be connected to provide better coverage in rooms where
the signal does not appear as strongly as desired.
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