Meru Networks AP320 Installation Manual page 62

Installing the Access Points
any strong radio signals using the 802.11a or 802.11bg channel frequencies. Always use a
channel frequency that is furthest away from another signal.
Weather Conditions
Take into account any extreme weather conditions that are known to affect your loca-
tion. Consider these factors:
Temperature — The OAP180 is tested for normal operation in temperatures from - 40°F
to 140°F. Operating in temperatures outside of this range may cause the unit to fail.
Wind Velocity — The OAP180 can operate in winds up to 44 m/s and survive higher wind
speeds up to 66 m/s. You must consider the known maximum wind velocity and
direction at the site and be sure that any supporting structure, such as a pole, mast,
or tower, is built to withstand this force.
Lightning — The OAP180 includes its own built-in lightning surge protection. However,
you should make sure that the unit, any supporting structure, and cables are all
properly grounded. Additional protection using lightning rods, lightning arrestors, or
surge suppressors may also be employed. Antenna sockets should point upwards in a
vertical manner
Rain — The OAP180 is weatherproofed against rain. Also, prolonged heavy rain has no
significant effect on the radio signal. However, it is recommended to apply
weatherproof sealing tape around the Ethernet port and antenna connectors for extra
protection. If moisture enters a connector, it may cause a degradation in performance
or even a complete failure of the link.
Snow and Ice — Falling snow, like rain, has no significant effect on the radio signal.
However, a build up of snow or ice on antennas may cause the link to fail. In this case,
the snow or ice has to be cleared from the antennas to restore operation of the link.
Ethernet Cabling
When a suitable antenna location has been determined, plan a cable route from the
OAP180
The Ethernet cable length should never be longer than 100 ft.
Determine a building entry point for the cable.
Determine if conduits, bracing, or other structures are required for safety or protection
of the cable.
For lightning protection at the power injector end of the cable, consider using a
lightning arrestor immediately before the cable enters the building.
The shield of the ethernet cable needs to be grounded at the lightning arrestor. If, by
design, the lightning arrestor cannot provide this ground, the shield of the ethernet
cable will need to be grounded by the installer.
48 Meru Access Point and Radio Switch Installation Guide
outdoors to the power injector module indoors. Consider these points:
© 2008 Meru Networks, Inc.