Outdoor Installation Recommendations - ZyXEL Communications ZyAIR G-5100 User Manual

Outdoor Installation Recommendations

This appendix provides information on site requirements for the installation of your outdoor
wireless device See the Quick Start Guide for more information on site installation.
Mounting
An antenna couples RF signals onto air. A transmitter within a wireless device sends an RF
signal to the antenna, which propagates the signal through the air. The antenna also operates in
reverse by capturing RF signals from the air.
Positioning the antennas properly increases the range and coverage area of a wireless LAN.
A wall (side) mount allows for mounting an antenna (mast) on the side of a building or on the
side of an elevated penthouse. This will provide a convenient mounting location when the roof
overhang is not excessive and/or the location is high enough to provide a clear line of sight.
In most situations mounting an antenna directly to the wall will not allow you to properly align
the antenna with the corresponding antenna at the opposite end of your wireless link. As poor
alignment will typically result in poor performance, you are advised to always mount the
outdoor wireless device to a mast.
Antenna Mast/Antenna Requirements
To accommodate the outdoor wireless device, the mast must satisfy the following
requirements:
• The construction of the mast must be of a sturdy, weatherproof and non-corrosive
material, for example, galvanized or stainless steel construction pipe.
• The diameter of the mast may vary, see the Hardware Specifications for details.
• The height of the antenna mast must be sufficient to allow the antenna to be installed at
least 1.5 m (5') above the peak of roof. If the roof is metal, then the height of the antenna
should be a minimum of 3m (10') above the roof.
• The mast or wall-bracket must be free from any substance that may prevent a good
electrical connection with the antenna, for example, paint.
Grounding
A safe grounding system is necessary to protect your outdoor installation from lightning
strikes and the build-up of static electricity.
Appendix H Outdoor Installation Recommendations
ZyAIR G-5100 User's Guide
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