2
I

NSTALLING

THE

A
CCESS
P
OINT

Before You Begin

The following items are required for installation:
■
3Com Integrated Power-over-Ethernet power supply and power cord.
■
Standard category 5 straight (8-wire) Ethernet cable for connecting the access
point to the power supply. This length of cable must reach from the access
point to the power supply.
If you plan to connect the access point to a wired network, you will need an
additional length of Ethernet cable.
■
If you plan to mount the access point on a wall:
■
Mounting template
■
Wall mount hardware kit
■
If you plan to mount the access point to the T-rail grid of an acoustical ceiling:
■
Mounting bracket
■
Two #6 panhead screws

Deciding Where to

Place Equipment

Select a clean, dry location that provides good reception. The site should not be
close to transformers, heavy-duty motors, fluorescent lights, microwave ovens,
refrigerators and other electrical equipment.
The power supply must be located near a power source. If you are connecting the
access point to a wired network, the location must provide an Ethernet
connection. You will need to run an Ethernet cable from the power supply to the
access point.
An access point provides coverage at distances of up to 1000 feet. Signal loss can
occur if metal, concrete, brick, walls, or floors block transmission. If your office has
these kinds of obstructions, you may need to add additional access points to
improve coverage.
If you plan to use one of the available optional antennas instead of the standard
detachable antennas, review “Selecting A Different Antenna” on page 11 before
For advanced installations, we recommend that you conduct a site survey before
permanently installing the access point. A site survey tool is provided on the
3Com CD. To conduct the survey, you must also use the administrator utilities to
set up a wireless client. See “Conducting a Site Survey” on page 37.
Only professional network personnel should install the access point, cables, and
antennas.