Psion Teklogix 9160 G2 - Manual (Page 78)

Chapter 6: Managing Access Points & Clusters
Understanding Clustering
56 Psion Teklogix 9160 G2 Wireless Gateway User Manual
6.3 Understanding Clustering
A key feature of the 9160 G2 Wireless Gateway is the ability to form a dynamic,
configuration-aware group (called a cluster) with other 9160 G2 Wireless Gateways
in a network in the same subnet. Access points can participate in a self-organizing
cluster which makes it easier for you to deploy, administer, and secure your wireless
network. The cluster provides a single point of administration and lets you view the
deployment of access points as a single wireless network rather than a series of sep-
arate wireless devices.
6.3.1 What Is A Cluster?
A cluster is a group of access points which are coordinated as a single group via
9160 G2 Wireless Gateway administration. You can have multiple clusters on the
same subnet if they have different cluster “names”.
6.3.2 How Many APs Can A Cluster Support?
Currently, there is no hard limit on the number of access points in a cluster. Valida-
tion testing has verified a dozen or more supported on the same subnet. You can
include as many APs as needed in a cluster at any one time.
6.3.3 What Kinds Of APs Can Cluster Together?
A single 9160 G2 Wireless Gateway can form a cluster with itself (a “cluster of
one”) and with other 9160 G2 Wireless Gateways. In order to be members of the
same cluster, access points must be:
• Compatible devices as designated by the manufacturer (access points must
have compatible design features).
• Of the same radio configuration (all one-radio APs or all two-radio APs).
• Of the same band configuration (all single-band APs or all dual-band APs).
• On the same LAN .
Having a mix of APs on the network does not adversely affect 9160 G2 Wireless
Gateway clustering in any way. However, it is helpful to understand the clustering
behaviour for administration purposes: