User's Manual

8 of 24 OAP180 Hardware Installation Instructions
© 2007 Meru Networks, Inc.
z Wind Velocity — The OAP180 can operate in winds up to 44 m/s and survive higher
wind speeds up to 66 m/s. You must consider the known maximum wind velocity
and direction at the site and be sure that any supporting structure, such as a pole,
mast, or tower, is built to withstand this force.
z Lightning — The OAP180 includes its own built-in lightning surge protection.
However, you should make sure that the unit, any supporting structure, and cables
are all properly grounded. Additional protection using lightning rods, lightning
arrestors, or surge suppressors may also be employed. Antenna sockets should
point upwards in a vertical manner
z Rain — The OAP180 is weatherproofed against rain. Also, prolonged heavy rain has
no significant effect on the radio signal. However, it is recommended to apply
weatherproof sealing tape around the Ethernet port and antenna connectors for
extra protection. If moisture enters a connector, it may cause a degradation in
performance or even a complete failure of the link.
z Snow and Ice — Falling snow, like rain, has no significant effect on the radio signal.
However, a build up of snow or ice on antennas may cause the link to fail. In this
case, the snow or ice has to be cleared from the antennas to restore operation of
the link.
Ethernet Cabling
When a suitable antenna location has been determined, plan a cable route from the
OAP180 outdoors to the power injector module indoors. Consider these points:
z The Ethernet cable length should never be longer than 100 m (328 ft).
z Determine a building entry point for the cable.
z Determine if conduits, bracing, or other structures are required for safety or
protection of the cable.
z For lightning protection at the power injector end of the cable, consider using a
lightning arrestor immediately before the cable enters the building.
Grounding
It is important that the OAP180, cables, and any supporting structures are properly
grounded. The OAP180 unit includes a grounding screw for attaching a ground wire.
Be sure that grounding is available and that it meets local and national electrical
codes.
Test Basic Link Operation
Set up the OAP180 on the ground, either outdoors or indoors. Connect the unit as indi-
cated in this document and perform the basic configuration tasks outlined below.
When you are satisfied that the OAP180 is operating correctly, proceed to mounting
the unit in the intended location.