Asus WL-320gE - Manual (Page 13)

1. Introduction
ASUS 802.11g Access Point 13
Chapter 1 - Introduction
1. Wireless Performance
This section provides the user with ideas for how to improve the performance
of a ASUS WLAN network.
1..1 Site Topography
For optimal performance, locate wireless mobile clients and the ASUS AP s
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
AP s in open areas or add the ASUS AP s as needed to improve coverage.
Microwave ovens operate in the same frequency band as the ASUS AP .
Therefore, if you use a microwave within range of the ASUS AP you may
notice network performance degradation. However, both your microwave
and your the ASUS AP will continue to function.
1.4.2 Range
Every environment is unique with different obstacles, barriers, materials, etc.
and, therefore, it is difficult to determine the exact range that will be achieved
without testing. However, has developed some guidelines to estimate the
range that users will see when the product is installed in their facility, 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 two devices have a
line of sight, meaning they see each other with no obstacles. However, 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. Therefore, a client that is close to the ASUS AP
may operate at higher speeds while a client that is on the fringe of coverage
may operate at lower speeds. 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.
1.4.3 Site Surveys
A site survey (utility provided with the ASUS WLAN Cards) analyzes the
installation environment and provides users with recommendations for
equipment and its placement. The optimum placement differ depending on
Performance