Asus WL-320gE - Manual (Page 12)

1. Introduction
Chapter 1 - Introduction
12 ASUS 802.11g Access Point
1. Wireless Performance
This section provides you with information on how to improve the performance of
an ASUS WLAN network.
1..1 Site Topography
For optimal performance, locate wireless mobile clients and the ASUS APs away
from transformers, heavy-duty motors, fluorescent lights, microwave ovens,
refrigerators, and other industrial equipment. Signal loss can occur when metal,
concrete, walls or floors block transmission. Locate the ASUS APs in open areas or
add the ASUS APs as needed to improve coverage.
Microwave ovens operate in the same frequency band as the ASUS AP . If you use
a microwave within range of the ASUS AP, you may notice network performance
degradation. But both your microwave and your the ASUS AP continue to function.
1..2 Range
Every environment is unique with different obstacles, barriers, or materials. Hence,
it is difficult to determine the exact range that will be achieved without testing.
Some guidelines have been developed so users can estimate the rage, but there
are no hard and fast specifications.
Radio signals may reflect off of some obstacles or be absorbed by others
depending on their construction. For example, with two 802.11b radios, you may
achieve up to 1000’ in open space outdoors where there are no obstacles between
the two devices. The same two units may only achieve up to 300’ of range when
used indoors.
By default, the ASUS AP will automatically adjust the data rate to maintain a usable
radio connection. A client that is close to the ASUS AP may operate at a higher
speed while a client that is on the fringe of coverage may operate at a lower speed.
As mentioned earlier, you can configure the data rates that the ASUS AP will use.
If you limit the range of data rates available to the ASUS AP, you may reduce the
effective wireless range of the WLAN coverage.
1..3 Site Surveys
A site survey, a utility provided with the ASUS WLAN cards, analyzes the
installation environment and provides you with recommendations for the device
and its placement. The optimum placement differ depending on the ASUS AP
design and specifications.