Understanding 802.11ac and the option module

Figure 69

Module antennas are internal to the Access Point and radiate omni-directionally

Because the 5 GHz module operates in the same frequency band as the internal 5 GHz 802.11n radio, both radios have been purposefully designed to work in tandem (think of it as a blended radio) where both radios work as one radio maintaining proper isolation and performance. Unlike the competition, this allows the 802.11ac client to be serviced by the module while legacy a/g and 802.11n clients are serviced by the integrated radios taking full advantage of Client Link 2.0 to beam form without having to try and bounce clients around based on signal strength.

Given the AP has a dual core processor with one core managing the module, similar to the “master/slave” approach that was used with IDE hard drives, the module always takes its direction from the “master” radio, in this case the integrated 802.11n radio. So when performing power and frequency selection for example selecting 80 MHz (802.11ac) channel bonding, the integrate radio and not the module radio sets the “anchor” point where the frequency starts with the module performing the overlay extending the 80 MHz over the existing channel selected by the integrated “master” radio (802.11n radio). Both the integrated radio and the module also share the same SSIDs.

This virtual radio approach requires both radios to be enabled so you cannot disable the integrated 5 GHz radio and just run the .11ac radio module.

Currently in the US, there are 22 (20 MHz) channels, 9 (40 MHz) channels, and 4 (80 MHz) channels. 802.11ac (Wave-2) supports 160 MHz channels but there is only 1 channel available today, this is likely going to get better as the Federal Communications Commission and other regulatory bodies realize the need for more unlicensed spectrum and are actively working to free up more spectrum.

Let’s take a look at the frequencies available and how the channel bonding would work.

Figure 70

Current channel allocation plan US Theater.

Cisco Aironet Series 1600/2600/3600 Access Point Deployment Guide, Release 7.5

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Cisco Systems AIRRM3000ACAK9 manual Current channel allocation plan US Theater
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AIRRM3000ACAK9 specifications

Cisco Systems has long been a leader in networking solutions, and one of its standout offerings in the wireless access point market is the AIR-RM3000-AK9 model. This device is designed to provide high-performance and reliable wireless connectivity for a wide range of applications, making it an ideal choice for organizations that demand robust networking capabilities.

One of the main features of the AIR-RM3000-AK9 is its dual-band operation, which allows it to operate on both the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz frequency bands. This dual-band capability enables the access point to support a greater number of devices and deliver higher data throughput, thereby enhancing the overall user experience. The access point can automatically select the best band, ensuring optimal performance based on network conditions and user requirements.

The device also supports the latest Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac) standard, delivering impressive wireless speeds and improved capacity compared to previous generations. With Multi-User Multiple Input Multiple Output (MU-MIMO) technology, the AIR-RM3000-AK9 can communicate with multiple devices simultaneously. This feature is particularly advantageous in crowded environments, as it helps to reduce latency and increase overall network efficiency.

Security is another critical aspect of the AIR-RM3000-AK9. It offers advanced security protocols such as WPA2 and WPA3, ensuring that data remains protected as it traverses the wireless medium. Additionally, with Cisco's identity and access services, organizations can manage user access and maintain compliance with security policies.

The access point is also designed for easy deployment and management. With support for Cisco DNA Center, network administrators can leverage a centralized platform for monitoring, troubleshooting, and optimizing network performance. This capability is essential for reducing operational costs and improving overall network reliability.

Moreover, the AIR-RM3000-AK9 features advanced Quality of Service (QoS) capabilities to prioritize traffic, ensuring that critical applications receive the bandwidth they need for seamless operation. This feature is particularly beneficial for organizations that rely on real-time applications such as video conferencing and VoIP.

In summary, Cisco Systems AIR-RM3000-AK9 access point stands out due to its dual-band operation, support for Wi-Fi 5, MU-MIMO technology, robust security features, and ease of management. These characteristics make it an excellent choice for businesses seeking to enhance their wireless networking capabilities while ensuring high performance and security.
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