NetComm NP6800 - Manual (Page 6)

www.netcomm.com.au Rev.1 - YML655
Page 6 NP6800 - Wireless LAN Access Point
11 Mbps Operation
The NetComm NP6800 - Wireless LAN Access Point supports a maximum 11 Mbps data
transfer rate. When the adaptors transmit (TX) rate is set to Auto, the adaptor automatically
shifts to a 5.5, 2 or 1 Mbps data rate when unable to maintain a high quality connection at 11
Mbps. When the adaptor detects improved signal strength, it shifts to an increased data rate, up
to the maximum 11 Mbps.
The following factors can dynamically alter the data rate:
■ signal strength between the access point and adaptor,
■ the ratio of good transmitted packets to attempted transmitted packets that fall below a
threshold, or -
■ the adaptor finds a higher transmit rate with another AP or it encounters an unspecified data
rate.
Physical obstructions and numerous devices operating in close proximity to one another
negatively impact the ability to maintain an 11 Mbps access point association.
Signal Range
WLAN devices are designed to operate over a radius of 100 meters indoors and 300 metres
outdoors. Obstructions such as walls, ceilings, floors, office equipment, and furniture can reduce
this range. The following example or just some factors that affect the signal range of your
Wireless network.
■ Obstructions. The Wireless LAN radio signal can penetrate through ceilings and walls.
However, each wall or ceiling the signal must pass through to reach other WLAN devices
will reduce the effective range your Wireless LAN.
You should also keep the depth of the obstructions to a minimum. Take an example of a wall
that is half a metre thick. For a radio signal going through the wall, at a forty degree angle, it
must pass through almost one metre of material. At a two degree angle, this increases to over
14 metres! Position adaptors and access points so that the signal will travel straight through
a wall or ceiling for better reception.
Position your adaptors and access points above desk height so as to minimise the number
and depth of obstructions and always position your adaptors and access points so that the
signal passes through drywalls or open doorways and not through metallic materials.