Specifications

Cisco Aironet Series 702W Access Point Deployment Guide, Release 7.6.100.120

General Considerations Regarding Access Points

While cell sizes are similar, each higher end AP model employs methods that allow the user to

experience higher data rate connectivity with less retries. For example, using higher MCS rates, Spatial

streams, or Cisco’s ClientLink beam-forming technology. So, the take away is that the client experiences

a higher performance and faster connectivity, but it is not designed to change the actual cellular coverage

area so surveys maintain their validity across different AP models.

General Considerations Regarding Access Points

Following are some guidelines to remember regarding all access points.

1. Always try to mount the AP as close to the users as possible for best performance. Be aware of the

environment; for example, hospitals have metal doors and the coverage can change when the doors

close or old buildings can have metal grid work in the plaster or asbestos. Avoid mounting the AP

or antennas near metal objects because doing so can change the coverage area.

2. When using the 2.4 GHz frequency, the same 1, 6, and 11 channel scheme is used as is the 5 GHz

channel scheme. Avoid putting all the APs on the same channel, and reuse channels as you can. See

our other deployment guides for more on this topic.

Figure 19 Example of Channel Usage in 2.4 and 5 GHz (Two channels used if 40 MHz)

Try to determine which clients are going to be used and check the coverage using those clients. For

example, a PDA or Wi-Fi phone might not have the same range as a notebook or tablet.

Tip Verify coverage using the worst performing clients that you intend to deploy.

4. While site surveys are generally recommended, if the design is done at half power and Cisco RRM

is in place, sometimes a limited site survey (coverage check) is adequate for smaller venues. If this

is a very challenging environment such as train connectivity, Gas and Oil verticals, large hospitals,

and so on, Cisco has an Advanced Services team that can be contracted to help you get up to speed

or perform your installation. See your Cisco account team for more information.

5. The rule of thumb coverage plan is: 1 AP per 2500 square feet.

6. Some clients (especially older ones) do not support the UNII-2 extended client channels 100-140.

So, if you have a lot of older clients you may want to disable them in the DCA channel list.