Cisco Aironet Access Point Deployment Guide
Figure 20: Optional AIR‐AP‐BRACKET‐3 for Installation of APs into Ceiling Tiles
Use the “beauty ring” as a template to cut the tile. Cisco does not offer custom cut tiles but the tiles are easy to cut with a carpet knife or electric tool such as the Dremel™ or Rotozip™ rotary cutting tool.
A metal rail that extends the length of the tile supports the AP above the ceiling if the tile becomes wet or otherwise fails. A mechanical set screw pulls the AP tight to the ceiling and locks it into the bracket. Additionally, a Kensington style lock can be used for physical security of the AP, but, once installed, it is difficult to remove the AP without removing the tile since the AP does not slide out from the front side of the tile.
Note: This bracket fits the AP 1040, 1140, 1260, 1600, 2600, 3500, and 3600.
Installation on Walls
Walls can be a physical obstacle to the wireless signal and may compromise 360 degree coverage. If the wall is an outside wall or if the goal is to send the signal in a 180‐degree pattern rather than a 360‐ degree pattern, a directional antenna (often referred to as a patch antenna) used with the AP 3600e may be a better choice.
Avoid wall‐mounting APs with internal antennas such as the AP 3600i. The internal antenna model is designed to mount to a ceiling to provide 360‐degree coverage. If wall‐mounted in a non‐horizontal orientation, the signal may penetrate floors and ceilings. This causes unintended coverage and may result in additional, needless roaming access when, for example, a user with Wi‐Fi phone walks on an adjacent floor.
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