KBC Networks Mesh2HT - Manual (Page 15)

Mesh2HT User Manual
Manual-MESH2HT-Rev1311
Copyright © KBC Networks 2012
Page 15 of 59 www.kbcnetworks.com
R2 antennas
R1 antennas
1.2.1 Configuration Standards & Topology
1.2.1.1 Basic Mesh2HT Radio Overview
Mesh2HT consists of two WiFi radios but one Ethernet LAN port. One
radio, Radio 1 or “R1” is default configured as a client while the second
radio (“R2”) is configured as an access point. When looking at the
Mesh2HT node chassis with the LAN port on the bottom of the case,
the two N-connector antenna ports on the top are for R1 and the two
adjacent to the LAN port and mounting block are the R2 ports. R1 and
R2 can be configured to their opposite nature (R1 converted to an AP,
R2 configured as a client) or to the same nature (both APs for
example). Regardless of R1 and R2 configurations, the two radios will
not associate with one another. In this manual, unless otherwise
noted, all diagrams and details will assume default configurations for
R1 and R2 nature configurations.
See section 3.2 and following for advanced set up details, the
following sections 1.1.1.2 – 1.1.1.3 provide an overview of the
topologies in which Mesh2HT nodes can operate.
1.2.1.2 Mesh2HT Ring Topology
Mesh nodes are commonly configured with redundant paths to provide a second wireless
connection as an attempt to avoid critical downtime. Several Mesh topologies exist but
certain Mesh formats are most appropriate for systems transmitting constant video
streaming. If redundancy is required in a wireless video system, the ring topology using
directional antennas is recommended. Configuring several (i.e. three or more) Mesh2HT-
AA-Ox nodes into a ring will enable the remaining nodes to sustain connectivity in the
event one of the nodes in the ring loses connection. In order for any type of network
connection where data packets can route through multiple paths to any given point
resulting in a network loop, spanning tree protocol (STP) must be configured. STP
essentially “breaks” one path to eliminate the loop and routes packets along the
remaining connection of the network.
Since the wireless connection is still established where STP has avoided routing the data,
STP will then restructure the connection should another portion of the ring be disturbed
and is no longer a part of the ring network. Mesh2HT contains an STP function
eliminating the need for a managed switch with STP as part of the wireless network.
Mesh2HT nodes shown with optional directional
patchantennas. Kit comes with omni-directional antennas.
STP
Power Loss
STP opens
link