Cisco Aironet Access Point Deployment Guide

Note: Beamforming to a 3SS client requires n+1 radio frequency (RF) design. To accomplish this, the AP 3600 has an additional radio per band, which improves client performance by using Cisco ClientLink 2.0.

The AP 3500e has separate antennas for each band, 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz, and does not support 3SS technology, since it has only two transceivers (transmitter/receiver) and one extra receiver per band enabling operation up to two spatial streams.

Unlike the AP 3500, the newer AP 3600 design supports an optional, add‐on feature module. The bottom of the AP 3600 has openings to support the feature module, as shown in Figure 8. The openings, while fully sealed, permit the module to have access to the top of the AP, which allows the module antennas (if present) to fully function. The unit includes a positive snap “spring loaded BB” so the installer can feel a positive lock when the AP is fully engaged in the bracket.

Figure 8: Bottom View of the AP 3600 with Support for a Feature Module

Comparison of the 3600 and 2600 Series

The AP 3600 has a modular design that offers future protection with optional .11ac and security modules. The AP 2600 does not support optional modules. However, the AP 2600 does have a slightly higher antenna gain in the 2.4 GHz band.

The AP3600 and the AP2600 are the same size, but it is easy to identify each one by noting whether the Cisco logo has an embossed frame (AP 3600) or not (AP 2600). (See Figure 9.)

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Cisco Systems 1600 Comparison of the 3600 and 2600 Series, Bottom View of the AP 3600 with Support for a Feature Module
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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.
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