User's Manual

Wireless Bridge Link Planning 6 - 1
6
6
Wireless Bridge Link Planning
The MP-622 supports fixed point-to-point or point-to-multipoint wireless links. A single link
between two points can be used to connect a remote site to a larger core network. Multiple bridge
links can provide a way to connect widespread Ethernet LANs.
For each link in a wireless bridge network to be reliable and provide optimum performance, some
careful site planning is required. This chapter provides guidance and information for planning
your wireless bridge links.
Data Rates
Using a 5 GHz integrated antenna, the MP-622 can operate over a range of up to 9.6 miles (15.4
km) or provide a high-speed connection of 54 Mbps. However, the maximum data rate for a link
decreases as the operating range increases. A 9.6 mile link can only operate up to 6 Mbps,
whereas a 54 Mbps connection is limited to a range of 0.81 mile (1.3 km).
When you are planning each wireless bridge link, take into account the maximum distance and
data rates for the various antenna options. A summary for 5 GHz (802.11a) antennas is provided
in the following table. For full specifications for each antenna, see Antenna Specifications.
Note:
The planning and installation of a wireless bridge link requires professional
personnel that are trained in the installation of radio transmitting equipment. The
user is responsible for compliance with local regulations concerning items such as
antenna power, use of lightning arrestors, grounding, and radio mast or tower
construction. Therefore, it is recommended to consult a professional contractor
knowledgeable in local radio regulations prior to equipment installation.
Table 6– 1. Data Rates Achieved over Distances using MP-622 Antennas
Data Rate
17 dBi
Integrated
8 dBi Omni
13.5 dBi
120-Degree
Sector
16.5 dBi
60-Degree Sector
23 dBi Panel
6 Mbps 9.567 mi (15.4 km) 2.05 mi (3.3 km) 6.4 mi (10.3 km) 8.7 mi (14 km) 15.16 mi (24.4 km)
9 Mbps 9.13 mi (14.7 km) 1.8 mi (2.9 km) 5.72 mi (9.2 km) 8.32 mi (13.4 km) 14.48 mi (23.3 km)
12 Mbps 8.7 mi (14 km) 1.62 mi (2.6 km) 5.1 mi (8.2 km) 7.95 mi (12.8 km) 13.8 mi (22.2 km)
18 Mbps 7.95 mi (12.8 km) 1.3 mi (2.1 km) 4.04 mi (6.5 km) 7.27 mi (11.7 km) 12.61 mi (20.3 km)
24 Mbps 6.9 mi (11.1 km) .932 mi (1.5 km) 2.86 mi (4.6 km) 5.72 mi (9.2 km) 10.9 mi (17.7 km)
36 Mbps 4.04 mi (6.5 km) .5 mi (0.8 km) 1.62 mi (2.6 km) 3.23 mi (5.2 km) 8.7 mi (14 km)
48 Mbps 1.8 mi (2.9) km .25 mi (0.4 km) .75 mi (1.2 km) 1.42 mi (2.3 km) 5.72 mi (9.2 km)
Note: Distances provided in this table are an estimate for a typical deployment and may be reduced by
local regulatory limits. For accurate distances, you need to calculate the power link budget for your
specific environment.