Reference Manual for the ME103 802.11b ProSafe Wireless Access Point

Antenna Installation

The ME103 comes with two removable 2-dBi antenna. Two antennae provide what is called “space diversity”, which helps to combat the addition of electromagnetic waves in the space where the unit is installed. This effect is called “multipath fading.” Multipath fading is generated by the multiple reflections of electromagnetic waves in an office due to walls, ceiling, floors, partitions, doors, metallic polls, cubicles, etc. and the motion of people and objects. The benefits of two antennae are evident when there is distance or obstructions in the line of sight between the ME103 and the clients. When only one antenna is used, a degradation of up to 50% of data throughput can be noticed in several spots of the coverage and also at the fringes of the range.

The two 2dBi antenna are dipole and use vertical polarization. They provide an optimal radiation pattern in the plane perpendicular to their direction. When oriented vertically, they provide a optimal range in the horizontal plane (horizontal donut shaped signals). If the office is small and on multiple floors, it is advised to put the antenna flat so that the maximum coverage is vertical rather than horizontal. When the office is an odd shape, NETGEAR advises you to do some orientation trials.

For applications requiring more range, wireless accessories can be used such as external antennae and bi-directional booster(s). The first optional update is replacing the two 2dBi antennae by two 5-7dBi dipole antennae. Simply turn the ME103 off, unscrew the two antenna, and screw on the new ones. Be sure to use antenna with a reversed SMA connector.

Another solution is to relocate the antenna(e) with an RF cable to an optimal spot such as a ceiling, high on a wall, etc. One typical application is to locate the ME103 is in a secure location like a data center. Two external antenna are placed outside the room, for example on the ceiling, and connected with RF cables to the ME103. Another application is two external directional antennae, one pointing to one side of the building, and the other to the other side. Be aware of the loss in the cable. If the cable is too long and used with a medium gain antenna, the gain from placing the antenna in good spot may be reduced or eliminated. Only high gain antenna (more than 10dBi) should be used with a long cable such as 5 or 10m.

To cope with this inherent limitation, NETGEAR also provides bi-directional booster. This component amplifies the RF signal in transmit mode and in receive mode. It automatically switches itself to the receive or transmit mode. The booster is placed very close to the antenna and provides an outstanding output RF power of 500mW or 27dBm. It also includes a low noise amplifier for the receive path of 10dB gain minimum. The antenna and booster can be connected with a cable as long as 10 to 15m from the ME103 without any performance reduction.

Advanced Configuration

5-13

August 2003

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NETGEAR ME103 manual Antenna Installation
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ME103 specifications

The NETGEAR ME103 is a versatile and reliable Wireless Access Point designed to extend the reach of your network while providing enhanced connectivity for various devices. Ideal for both home and small office environments, the ME103 is an essential component for those seeking to improve wireless performance without compromising on speed or stability.

One of the main features of the NETGEAR ME103 is its compatibility with numerous wireless standards. It supports the 802.11b and 802.11g protocols, allowing users to connect a wide range of wireless devices, including laptops, smartphones, and tablets. This compatibility ensures that the ME103 can seamlessly integrate into existing networks, making it a flexible solution for upgrading Wi-Fi coverage.

The ME103 is equipped with fast data transfer rates, reaching up to 54 Mbps in 802.11g mode. This speed is sufficient for most online activities, including streaming videos and online gaming, providing users with a smooth and uninterrupted experience. Its ability to function as both an access point and a bridge allows for increased versatility, enabling connectivity between wired and wireless devices.

In terms of security, the NETGEAR ME103 has built-in features that protect your network from unauthorized access. It supports Wired Equivalent Privacy (WEP) and Wi-Fi Protected Access (WPA) encryption protocols, ensuring that data transmitted over the network remains secure. Additionally, it includes a built-in firewall that further safeguards against potential threats.

The device is also equipped with an easy-to-use web interface for configuration, making it simple for users to set up and manage their network settings. Its compact design allows for flexible placement options, whether mounted on a wall or placed on a desk. This adaptability is crucial for optimizing wireless coverage in larger spaces.

Power over Ethernet (PoE) support is another significant characteristic of the ME103, which simplifies installation by allowing the device to receive power through the Ethernet cable, eliminating the need for an additional power source.

Overall, the NETGEAR ME103 stands out due to its high compatibility, solid performance, and ease of use, making it an excellent choice for users looking to enhance their wireless connectivity efficiently.
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