WLAN 2300 Series Outdoor Solution with Indoor Mounted AP 43Nortel WLAN 2300 Series Outdoor Solution GuideBasic outdoor installation informationSignal path distanceIn an environment without obstacles in the signal path, the maximum communication distance betweenantennas depends primarily on the types of antennas, the operating frequency, the data rate and the free spaceloss between them. Make sure your proposed mounting site provides adequate clearance around thetransmitting antenna to enable adequate signal propagation. The Nortel WLAN 2300 Series Outdoor Solutionsupports data rates up to 54 Mbps.Signal attenuation and loss in outdoor installations“Appendix” on page 69Antenna polarization“Appendix” on page 69Signal path clearanceA radio beam is intended to travel from one antenna to another in a direct path. Therefore, the path between theantennas must be free of major obstacles. The effects of obstacles and terrain, both along and near the path,have a significant bearing on the propagation of radio signals and can cause both interference and signaldegradation.When choosing a site, consider the effects of the following common obstacles:• Trees and large plantsA tree directly in the path can completely block the signal. With sufficient clearance above the trees there areusually no secondary effects, but you should allow for future tree growth.• Man-made obstaclesA large round container such as a gas storage reservoir or water tower that is partially in the path causes someblocking. These obstacles may also reflect some energy, which can interfere with other receivers. Square orrectangular objects in or near the path have rectangular surfaces that can block and diffract signals over andaround them.• Earth surfaceThe earth surface also interferes with signals if the antenna is mounted too low. Mount the antenna just highenough to allow adequate clearance from the ground. Placing the antenna too high makes it susceptible tointerference from other systems.Physical site surveyPerform a visual inspection of the site to determine and document the physical characteristics of the site and toensure that all requirements are met for the proper installation and operation of the system.