Installation Considerations
Designed to go up to 100 meters indoors and up to 300 meters outdoors, D-Link Air lets you access your network from anywhere you want. Keep in mind, however, that the number of walls, ceilings or other objects that the wireless signals must pass thru will limit range. Typical ranges vary depending on the types of materials and background RF noise in your home or business. The key to maximizing range is to follow these basic principles:
1.Keep the number of walls and ceilings to a minimum - Each wall or ceiling can reduce your D-Link Air Wireless products range from 1-30 meters. Position your Access Points, Residential Gateways, and Computers so that the number of walls or ceilings is minimized.
2.Be aware of the direct line between Access Points, Residential Gateways, and Computers - A wall that is .5 meter thick, at a 45 degree angle appears to be almost 1 meter thick. At a 2 degree angle it looks over 14 meters thick! Try to make sure that the AP and Adapters are positioned so that the signal will travel straight through a wall or ceiling for better reception.
3.Building Materials make a difference - A solid metal door or aluminum studs may have a negative effect on range. Again, try to position Access Points, Residential Gateways, and Computers so that the signal passes through drywall or open doorways and not other materials.
4.Make sure that the antenna is positioned for best reception by using the software signal strength tools included with your product.
5.Keep your product away (at least 1-2 meters) from electrical devices that generate RF noise, like microwaves, Monitors, electric motors, etc.
For the average American 4-bedroom home, range should not be a problem. If you experience low or no signal strength in areas of your home that you wish to access, consider positioning the Access Point in a location directly between the Residential Gateways and/or Computers that will be connected. Additional Access Points can be connected to provide better coverage in rooms where the signal does not appear as strong as desired.