User`s guide

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10. Performance Hints
This section provides the user with ideas as to how to increase performance and network
satisfaction on a wireless network.
Microwave Ovens
Microwave ovens operate in the same frequency band as RangeLAN2. Therefore, if you use
a microwave within range of RangeLAN2 (about 10') you may notice network performance
degradation. However, both your microwave and your RangeLAN2 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. The site survey
tool and antenna aiming tools were developed to aid in this process. Additionally, Proxim has
developed 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 of some obstacles or be absorbed by others depending on their
construction. For example, with two RangeLAN2 radios using our lowest gain antennas, 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. 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'.
If you are interested in antenna options, contact your Proxim Sales Representative about
antenna kits.