User's Manual

SkyPilot SkyAccess DualBand Installation 12
SkyGateway
The SkyGateway operates as a base station for a wireless mesh
network. It provides an interface between wired infrastructure and a
wireless network of subscribers who enjoy secure, high-speed access to
the Internet or to wide area networks.
A SkyPilot wireless network requires at least one SkyGateway for
operation. If necessary, you can add additional SkyGateways to increase
network capacity or provide redundancy.
The SkyGateway typically resides at a location with easy access to wired
infrastructure—usually a POP (point of presence) or data center.
For optimal performance, install the SkyGateway on an elevated site
such as a cell tower or the top of a tall building.
SkyExtender Devices
SkyExtenders, SkyExtender DualBands, and SkyExtender TriBands
provide a cost-effective way to add capacity and balance network loads
by operating as “repeaters” to extend the wireless range of a
SkyGateway (see Figure ). You can add any SkyExtender device to
your network to expand your coverage footprint and provide redundancy
through SkyPilot’s mesh networking features. SkyExtender devices
(except DualBands) can provide subscribers with a direct connection to
the wireless network via the device’s Ethernet port.
SkyExtender DualBand is a dual-radio solution that combines SkyPilot’s
long-range, high-capacity 5 GHz mesh backhaul with a high-powered 2.4
GHz 802.11b/g access point that allows service providers and
municipalities to offer standard Wi-Fi services over great distances—for
targeted hot zones or dense, ubiquitous coverage patterns.
SkyExtender TriBand integrates a 5.8 GHz mesh backhaul with the
DualBand’s access point and adds a third radio accessible through a
second access point. The second access point leverages the 4.9 GHz
Public Safety band, using 802.11a communication protocol. Each access
point uses a single antenna, and these