Cisco Aironet Access Point Deployment Guide

the Intel card or open a case with Intel or the laptop manufacturer for a possible remedy. During the AP 3600 beta trials, Cisco observed differences in performance with different notebooks using the Intel 6300 card.

Note: Sometimes it can be difficult to reliably maintain a 3SS link, since it is easy for the client to rate‐shift out of the 3SS mode. The ability to maintain a 3SS link varies with the quality of the client and the test environment.

The AP 3600, with its extra radio per band, can use the extra redundant radio to beamform (thanks to ClientLink 2.0) and uses this to maintain the advantage of 3SS links. ClientLink 2.0 can also improve the overall performance of 802.11n clients using one, two, and three spatial streams and legacy .11a/g clients.

Beamforming in ClientLink 1.0 and 2.0

ClientLink 1.0 was first introduced with the AP 1250 and the AP 1140; it is a method to create a stronger signal on the downlink side for 802.11a/g clients by hearing the clients on the uplink and then adjusting the transmitter timing so the signal appears much stronger at the client end.

This feature was previously user configurable. However, starting with 7.2 code stream, it is now on by default and is not user configurable because there is no benefit to disabling it.

The AP 3600 fully supports ClientLink 1.0 for 802.11a/g clients but has a greater advantage, for it also supports all 802.11n clients including one, two, and three spatial stream clients. This capability is called ClientLink 2.0. There is a distinct advantage with ClientLink 2.0 over the 802.11n enhanced beamforming specification, because ClientLink 2.0 works with all clients today and does not require any client sounding or support. (See Figure 55.)

Figure 55: ClientLink 2.0

With beamforming technology, changing the timing of two transmitters creates a stronger signal for the receiver (for example, a client device). This is referred to as constructive interference. If the opposite happens, and the signals cancel each other out, it is called destructive interference. (See Figure 56.)

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Cisco Systems AIRCAP1602EAK9, 3602i, AP2600, AP3600, AP1600, AIRCAP3602IAK9RF manual Beamforming in ClientLink 1.0

AP3600, AIRCAP1602EAK9, 1602E, 3602i, 1600 specifications

Cisco Systems 1600 series routers are well-regarded in the networking industry for their reliability, versatility, and performance. Designed to meet the needs of small to medium-sized businesses, the Cisco 1600 series is primarily oriented towards providing robust connectivity for branch offices and remote sites.

One of the most significant features of the Cisco 1600 series is its modular architecture. This allows users to customize their routers with various interface cards, enabling support for different types of WAN technologies, including serial, ISDN, and Frame Relay. The modular design not only enhances flexibility but also extends the lifespan of the equipment, as businesses can upgrade their capacity and functionalities according to evolving demands.

Another key characteristic of the Cisco 1600 routers is their advanced routing capabilities. These devices support a wide range of routing protocols, including RIP, OSPF, EIGRP, and BGP. This versatility ensures seamless integration into existing network infrastructures, facilitating the scalability and adaptability that modern networks require.

Security is also a crucial aspect of the Cisco 1600 series. Incorporating features such as access control lists (ACLs) and support for Virtual Private Networks (VPNs), these routers help businesses safeguard their sensitive data during transmission. Enhanced security features allow companies to implement secure remote access for employees, thereby maintaining productivity without compromising safety.

In addition to routing and security, the Cisco 1600 series boasts Quality of Service (QoS) capabilities. This technology enables better management of network traffic, ensuring that critical applications receive the bandwidth they need for optimal performance. By prioritizing important data flows, businesses can enhance user experience and minimize disruptions across their network.

The Cisco 1600 series routers are also equipped with user-friendly interfaces and management tools. Cisco's IOS software platform provides a command-line interface (CLI) and web-based graphical interface for straightforward configuration and monitoring. This simplifies network management tasks and reduces the learning curve for IT personnel.

In summary, the Cisco Systems 1600 series routers offer a significant combination of modularity, robust routing protocols, enhanced security measures, Quality of Service features, and user-friendly management options. These characteristics make them an excellent choice for small to medium-sized enterprises looking to establish a reliable and secure networking infrastructure. With the continued evolution of networking technologies, the Cisco 1600 series stands as a dependable solution for businesses navigating an increasingly complex digital landscape.