User`s guide

Welcome to the Aironet 4000 Series Wireless LAN Adapter

1-6

Here are some operating and environmental conditions that

need to be considered:

• Data Rates. Sensitivity and range are inversely propor-

tional to data bit rates. The maximum radio range is

achieved at the lowest workable data rate. There will be

a decrease in receiver threshold sensitivity as the radio

data rate increases.

• Antenna Type and Placement. Proper antenna conﬁg-

uration is a critical factor in maximizing radio range. As

a general guide, range increases in proportion to

antenna height.

For a detailed explanation of antenna types and conﬁg-

urations along with guidelines on selecting antennas for

speciﬁc environments, see the Aironet Antenna Guide,

document number 710-003725.

• Physical Environments. Clear or open areas provide

better radio range than closed or ﬁlled areas. Also, the

less cluttered the work environment, the greater the

range.

• Obstructions. A physical obstruction such as metal

shelving or a steel pillar can hinder the performance of

the Wireless LAN Adapter. Avoid locating the comput-

ing device and antenna in a location where there is a

metal barrier between the sending and receiving

antennas.

• Building Materials. Radio penetration is greatly inﬂu-

enced by the building material used in construction. For

example, drywall construction allows greater range than

concrete blocks. Metal or steel construction is a barrier

to radio signals.