User's Manual

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6. Performance Hints
This section provides information on how to improve the
performance of a wirefree network and describes certain com-
munication restrictions of which the user should be aware.
Microwave Ovens
Microwave ovens operate in the same frequency band as
OpenAir and HomeRF products. Therefore, if you use a micro-
wave within range of OpenAir or HomeRF products, you may
notice network performance degradation. However, both your
microwave and your Proxim network will continue to function.
Range
Every environment is unique with different obstacles, barriers,
materials, etc., and therefore, it is difficult to determine the
exact range that will be achieved without testing. Additionally,
Proxim has developed some guidelines to estimate the range
that users will see when the product is installed in their facility,
but there are no hard and fast specifications.
Radio signals may reflect off obstacles or be absorbed by others
depending on their construction. For example, with two
OpenAir radios you may achieve up to 1000' in open space
outdoors where the two antennas are line of sight, meaning they
see each other with no obstacles between them. However, the
same two units will only achieve up to 500' of range when they
have to travel through the cubicles usually used in modern
offices. If there are office walls to penetrate, the signal range
may decrease even further to up to 300'.
Proper antenna placement can help improve OpenAir perfor-
mance. Keep the Access Point’s antenna high above of the
floor and avoid metal obstructions, like a file cabinet.