User`s guide

ZyAIR G-5100
10
4 Hardware Installation
In general, the best location for the access point is at the center of your intended wireless coverage area. It is
recommended that you do the initial configuration of the ZyAIR prior to mounting.
The ZyAIR can be mounted on the side of a building or mounted to an antenna mast as described:
A wall (side) mount allows for mounting an antenna (mast) on the side of a building or on the side of an
elevated penthouse. This will provide a convenient mounting location when the roof overhang is not excessive
and/or the location is high enough to provide a clear line of sight.
An antenna couples RF signals onto air. A transmitter within a wireless device sends an RF signal to the
antenna, which propagates the signal through the air. The antenna also operates in reverse by capturing RF
signals from the air.
Choosing the right antennas and positioning them properly increases the range and coverage area of a
wireless LAN.
In most situations mounting an antenna directly to the wall will not allow you to properly align the antenna with
the corresponding antenna at the opposite end of your wireless link. As poor alignment will typically result in
poor performance, it is advised that you mount the ZyAIR to a mast.
4.1 Antenna Mast/Antenna Requirements
To accommodate the ZyAIR, the mast must satisfy the following requirements:
• The construction of the mast must be of a sturdy, weatherproof and non-corrosive material, for example, galva-
nized or stainless steel construction pipe.
• Typical diameter of the mast should be between 35 mm (1.4”) and 41 mm (1.625”). Subject to the type of mast
that you intend to install, other diameters are possible.
• The height of the antenna mast must be sufficient to allow the antenna to be installed at least 1.5 m (5’) above
the peak of the roof. If the roof is metal, then the height of the antenna should be a minimum of 3m (10’) above
the roof.
• The mast or wall-bracket must be free from any substance that may prevent a good electrical connection with
the antenna, for example, paint.
4.2 Grounding
A safe grounding system is necessary to protect your outdoor installation from lightning strikes and the build-
up of static electricity.
Direct grounding of the antenna mast, ZyAIR and surge arrester are very important. The ZyAIR has a built in
surge arrester. The ZyAIR’s frame ground (see Section 3 on page 2) should be connected to the same
grounding system as the antenna mast and the AC wall outlet.