No Wires Needed 10310308 User Manual 1

No Wires Needed 1

Bridge Manual

Wireless LAN to LAN bridge ManualPage 112-10-99No Wires NeededWB-S1100 / WB-C1100Wireless LAN to LAN bridgeUser ManualVersion 2.1.1 – October 1999
Wireless LAN to LAN bridge ManualPage 212-10-99User manualWB-S1100 / WB-C1100Wireless LAN to LAN bridgeNo Wires NeededJan Steenlaan 3-53723 BS BilthovenThe Netherlandswww.nwn.comVersion 2.1.1 – October 1999
Wireless LAN to LAN bridge ManualPage 312-10-99Trade marksCopyright © No Wires NeededThe publisher reserves the right to revise this publication and to make changes to any or allparts of this manual at any time, without obligation to notify any person or entity of suchrevisions or changes.Swallow, Parrot, Pelican, AirLock, APCenter, ASBF and Connect are trademarks of No WiresNeeded. Other product and company names are registered trademarks or trademarks of theirrespective holders.Copyright statementNo part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted inany form or by any means, whether electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, orotherwise without the prior writing of the publisher.Printed in Amsterdam, October 1999
Wireless LAN to LAN bridge ManualPage 412-10-99 Statement of Year 2000 ComplianceDetailed information about our statement is published on our website.http://www.nwn.com
Wireless LAN to LAN bridge ManualPage 512-10-99FCC Radiation Exposure StatementThis equipment complies with FCC radiation exposure limits set forth for an uncontrolledenvironment. This equipment should be installed and operated with no less then the minimumdistance between your body, excluding hands, wrists, feet and ankles, and the antennas asshown in the table below:Effective Gain Omni antenna (2dBi) 20cm (7 inches)Effective Gain Sector antenna (10dBi) 20cm (7 inches)Effective Gain Dish Directional antenna (18dBi) 20cm (7 inches)The above antennas are all to be mounted on the building exterior by professional antennainstallers.Warning: It is the responsibility of the professional installer to ensure that when using theoutdoor antenna kits in the United States (or where FCC rules apply), only these antennasmentioned in this manual are used. The use of any antenna other than those listed isexpressly forbidden in accordance with the FCC rules CFR47 part 15.204.Note: Detached antennas, whether installed indoors or out, should be installed ONLY byexperienced antenna installation professionals who are familiar with local building and safetycodes and, wherever applicable, are licensed by the appropriate government regulatoryauthorities.Failure to do so may void the No Wires Needed Product Warranty and may expose the enduser to legal and financial liabilities. No Wires Needed and its resellers or distributors are notliable for injury, damage or violation of government regulations associated with the installationof detached antennas.
Wireless LAN to LAN bridge ManualPage 612-10-99Declaration of ConformityThis device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following twoconditions: (1) this device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device mustaccept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.No Wires Needed Parrot, Pelican,WBS, WBC 1100Tested To ComplyWith FCC Standards FOR HOME OR OFFICE USE
Wireless LAN to LAN bridge ManualPage 712-10-991.0 INTRODUCTION .................................................................................................................82.0 HARDWARE INSTALLATION ..........................................................................................102.1 THE ANTENNA INSTALLATION ............................................................................................. 112.1.1 radiation diagram..................................................................................................... 112.1.2 Multi path .................................................................................................................122.1.3 Free space losses.................................................................................................... 142.1.4 Line of sight .............................................................................................................152.1.5 The link budget ........................................................................................................162.1.6 Mechanical installation of the antenna .................................................................... 172.1.7 Step by Step installation ..........................................................................................182.1.8 Lightening protection ............................................................................................... 192.2 BASIC ALIGNMENT OF THE ANTENNA .................................................................................. 202.3 CONFIGURATION OF THE BRIDGE UNITS.............................................................................. 23Antenna settings......................................................................................................................... 242.4 FINE TUNING OF THE BRIDGE LINK...................................................................................... 25The alignment............................................................................................................................. 252.5 INSTALLING THE BRIDGE UNIT ............................................................................................ 273.0 BCONFIG CONFIGURATION PROGRAM .......................................................................283.1 INSTALLATION................................................................................................................... 293.2 THE NETWORK CONFIGURATION......................................................................................... 30Community string ....................................................................................................................... 31Set a fixed IP address ................................................................................................................ 31Change write community............................................................................................................ 313.3 THE DEVICE SETTINGS ...................................................................................................... 32Encrypt link using AirLock™ security ......................................................................................... 32Contention window..................................................................................................................... 32ACK window............................................................................................................................... 33Short retry limit ........................................................................................................................... 33RTS/CTS threshold .................................................................................................................... 33Long retry limit............................................................................................................................ 33Fragmentation threshold............................................................................................................. 33Antenna settings......................................................................................................................... 33Regulatory domain ..................................................................................................................... 34Area ..................................................................................................................................34Channel...................................................................................................................................... 34ED Threshold ............................................................................................................................. 34Some other notes....................................................................................................................... 343.4 RESETTING THE BRIDGE .................................................................................................... 354.0 TROUBLESHOOTING ...................................................................................................... 36Problem: Can not access the bridge settings via network.......................................................... 36Problem: Low throughput on the link .......................................................................................... 36Problem: Link drops away every now and then.......................................................................... 365.0 SPECS...............................................................................................................................375.1 BRIDGE SPECS.................................................................................................................. 37Management and configuration.................................................................................................. 38!NETWORK:SNMP AGENT WITH SUPPORT FOR MIB-II AND IEEE 802.11MIB ....................385.2 OMNI ANTENNA SPECS (ART NUMBER 10380125) .............................................................. 39Features ..................................................................................................................................... 39Description ................................................................................................................................. 39Specifications ............................................................................................................................. 395.3 SECTOR ANTENNA SPECS (ART NUMBER 10380114) .......................................................... 40Features ..................................................................................................................................... 40Description ................................................................................................................................. 40Specifications ............................................................................................................................. 405.4 DISH ANTENNA SPECS (ART NUMBER 10380103) ............................................................... 41Description ................................................................................................................................. 41Specifications ............................................................................................................................. 415.5 POWER SUPPLY SPECIFICATIONS ....................................................................................... 42
Wireless LAN to LAN bridge ManualPage 812-10-991.0 IntroductionThank you for purchasing the No Wires Needed Wireless LAN to LAN Bridge.This manual will assist you with the installation and use of the bridge.The package you have received contains the following items:• WB-S1100 and/or WB-C1100• User manual• Diskette containing Bconfig™ software• Antenna (if ordered)A wireless bridge is used to create either a point-to-point or a point-to-multipoint link between two or more local area networks.The minimal set-up consists out of:• 1 WB-S1100 (server)• 1 WB-C1100 (client)Due to the complexity of installing a wireless bridge, always make sure aprofessional installs the bridge link. A professional installer not only providesyou with an optimised link; he also supplies you with a professionalmechanical installation.The professional installer covers the following areas:! Network link installation! Mechanical installation! Weather resistant installation! Lightening proof installationBy covering all these areas the installer will provide you with a link that hasthe highest possible uptime. He will also take away every possible chance ofdamaging your network.In order to establish a link between two or more networks, it is essential thatthe antenna of the server and the antenna of the client are in line of sight.Chapter 2 will define line of sight in depth and explains the installation of theantennas.Figure 1.1:The bridge, the connectors and indicators
Wireless LAN to LAN bridge ManualPage 912-10-99HINT: Before you start, write down the MAC addresses of both units.These addresses are located on the backside of the unit and are difficultto access after installation.
Wireless LAN to LAN bridge ManualPage 10 12-10-992.0 Hardware installationThis chapter describes:• The installation of the antennas• The installation and configuration of the WB-S1100 and the WB-C1100units• Connecting the antennas to the unitsBefore starting the installation, some understanding of antennas and theirbehaviour is necessary. In the following chapter the most importantcharacteristics are explained. If you are not familiar with antenna technologyplease take a few minutes to read this information and understand moreabout antenna installation.
Wireless LAN to LAN bridge ManualPage 11 12-10-992.1 The antenna installation2.1.1 radiation diagramThe bridge units are supplied with a choice of three different antennas.The type of antenna used depends on the type of link (point-to-point or point-to-multipoint) and the required range. All antennas are directional by nature;they cannot be made to radiate uniformly in all directions. Therefore,antennas are designed with controlled properties to guide available RFenergy in the desired direction. This directivity multiplied by antennaefficiency is gain. Gain is expressed in decibels relative to a hypotheticalisotropic source that radiates uniformly over a spherical surface. Figure 1.1displays this diagram versus the isotope. The gain of the isotropic source isthe unity or zero decibels.Depending on the directive behaviour of an antenna and the siterequirements, the type of antenna is chosen.This diagram displays the radiation power versus the direction. Figure 1.1displays the radiation diagram of a patch antenna.Figure 2.1,The radiation diagram of a patch antennaThe more directive an antenna is, the more gain an antenna has in onespecific direction.Installing an omni directional antenna for a point-to-point link is useless,unless the range between the two antennas is short. In such a case thechoice for an omni-directional antenna is a purely economical.
Wireless LAN to LAN bridge ManualPage 12 12-10-992.1.2 Multi pathDirect Sequence technology is more sensitive for multi-path effects than thetraditional Frequency Hopping. Multi-path effects can be explained ascoherent signals (signals from the same source) arriving at the antenna atdifferent times due to the difference in path length. Several signals from thesame source meeting at the receiving antenna can arrive in phase, out ofphase or in between.When the level of each incoming signal is included, the effects can be any ofthe following:Level Phase ResultEqual In Strong receptionUnequal In Good resultsEqual Out Possible loss of receiptionRandom Random Variable levelsThe conductivity of the reflector and polarisation of the wave before reflectionprimarily affect the level of the signal. Horizontal polarised signals, which areparallel to the reflecting surface, will reflect almost totally without appreciableloss at the point of bounce.Vertically polarised signals are perpendicular to the reflecting surface, and willeither be totally reflected from a conductor, or will propagate along thesurface (depending on the angle of the arriving energy). Since radiated wavespenetrate lossy materials, energy can be lost to heat generation.RefractionThe velocity of RF energy is delayed with prolonged passage throughdielectric materials that are denser than dry air. This is refraction, or thechange of direction of propagation. The time spent in the denser materialcontrols the degree of refraction and the resulting direction of the emergingwave.DiffractionPerfect shadows that are cast by RF-opaque structures or objects are rare atwireless system frequencies. Because of diffraction, energy scatters at theedges of the obstruction. Diffraction is more pronounced in sharp or knifeedged corners. According to field theory, edges cause secondary radiationwhen illuminated. This is generally independent of polarisation when thescatterer is much longer than the impinging signal’s wavelength.Diffraction forms a fuzzy signal source at the edges, which tends to fill in theshadowed regions. The signal levels are low but often usable. These edgescan be corners of a building, window frames or large vehicles. Diffraction alsofigures significantly in scattering at hilltops lying in the propagation path.A choice of three antennas can be made; the table below describes thecharacteristics of each. Fixed length cable is included. (cable and uniqueconnector loss is 4.5 dB)Omni antenna Sector antenna Dish antennaGain (EIRP) 2 dBi 10 dBi 18 dBiAlignmentaccuracy Low Medium HighMultipathsensitivity High Low LowSize Small Medium LargeCosts Low Medium MediumRange 1Km 3Km 6Km
Wireless LAN to LAN bridge ManualPage 13 12-10-99The gain of the antenna is directly linked to the range. According to the abovetable, it is clear that a dish should only be chosen when a distance of 3km ormore needs to be covered.Locating the antennaFree space radiation patterns are the baseline performance criteria beforeinstallation in the real world environment. Since sites are located on rooftops,or on the side of buildings; many opportunities exist for interference fromchimneys, walls, masts, towers and other antennas. Although it is difficult topredict level changes you can take steps to minimise pattern distortion.Obstructions are either conducting or non-conducting. Conducting objectscreate the most severe disturbances. Those near the resonant length of theantennas, such as other antennas, behave as the parasitic elements of anuncontrolled array, producing random nulls and lobes. Larger conductingstructures causes severe shadowing. The closer the spacing, the larger theshadow.
Wireless LAN to LAN bridge ManualPage 14 12-10-992.1.3 Free space lossesSpreading is the principal contributor to signal loss for line of sightpropagation. As a signal radiates it spreads or expands into a sphericalsurface. The available RF power is distributed over this surface and weakenswith increasing range. The signal is reduced by 6 dB for every doublingdistance from the source. We compute the loss path between the sourceradiators with spherical patterns using the following equation:Lp(dB)= 92,45 + 20log10 F+20 LOG10dLp= Path lossF= frequency in GHzdB= decibelsd= Distance in kilometresExample:A distance of 6 kilometre provides a free space loss of –115,67 dB.
Wireless LAN to LAN bridge ManualPage 15 12-10-992.1.4 Line of sightRadio signals require a clear path between antennas. It is necessary to knowthe requirements of a clear path (known as ‘line of sight’).Line of Sight (LOS) means a bit more than the words say. Of course the firstcondition for a LOS link is that the two antennas can be connected with animaginary straight string. There should never be any object blocking this line.Achieving this with a short link is fairly easy. Long links, however, can causeproblems. As well as binoculars and a compass, a large calibrated tetherballoon can be used for determining line of site. Letting this balloon up on oneside until it is visible from the other side will tell you exactly the requiredheight for this link. Repeat this both side.Besides the LOS there is the Fresnel zone. This zone is an elliptical areaimmediately surrounding the visual path. It varies in thickness depending onthe length of the signal path and the frequency of the signal. The necessaryclearance for the fresnel zone can be calculated, and must be take in accountwhen determining the height of the antennas. Figure 2.2A rule of thumb for the clearance needed above and below the signal path(H2) is that for every 1.5 km a clearance of 4 meter is necessary. A result ofthis rule is that large distances need great heights.Think about the following things if you have to determine the line of site:− Trees grow leaves− Make sure you have enough height
Wireless LAN to LAN bridge ManualPage 16 12-10-992.1.5 The link budgetFor each link a ‘link budget’ needs to be made. The link budget will calculatethe signal level through the link, and predicts the signal level at the receiver’sside. Within the ‘link budget’ there are a few parameters that are influencedby the location of the link. These are humidity and terrain roughness. Thelength of the link has also got a major influence on the ‘link budget’.
Wireless LAN to LAN bridge ManualPage 17 12-10-992.1.6 Mechanical installation of the antennaA solid mechanical installation of the antenna is the base of a quality link. Anoutdoor mounted antenna is exposed to extreme weather conditions. Metalbrackets oxidise, and vibrations will cause slack on connections. Therefore,the mechanical connection between the antenna and its carrier needs to besolid. Use locktite on screws. The connector between the cable and theantenna needs to be sealed with threading tape. Corrosion on the connectorwill cause signal losses due to changing impedance of the connection.Outside mounted antennas are lightening-strike sensitive. Lightening strikesalways are common at highest and smallest point, typically an antenna. Theantenna cable will then conduct the enormous amount of energy towards thebridge. If no lightening arrestor is placed in-between the antenna cable thebridge unit will be damaged, or worse, set on fire. Therefore, always use alightening arrestor.When placing the antennas the following points should be kept in mind:• Place an omni antenna always risen above conducting objects• Place a flat panel and Yagi antenna always on the edge of a roof ormounted on a wall• With an outdoor installation of the antenna always use a lighteningarrestor• Make sure that the mounting of the antenna can handle high forces. Windcan cause misalignment or even permanent damage• Keep the cable length between the antenna and the bridge limited to theminimum. Every meter of cable causes signal loss
Wireless LAN to LAN bridge ManualPage 18 12-10-992.1.7 Step by Step installation1. Determine the antenna location• Line of sight• Make sure your antenna fits the range• No large conducting objects in the area• No other antennas close• When mounting on a pole: Let the antenna rise above the pole• Remember that trees grow!!!2. Mount the antenna• It can never be too solid• Use Locktite with screws• Seal connectors with threading tape• Use a lightening arrestor3. After installation• Double check
Wireless LAN to LAN bridge ManualPage 19 12-10-992.1.8 Lightening protectionLightening strikes can cause major damage on equipment and buildings. Anantenna placed on a roof is often the place of strike. Dish antennas mountedagainst a wall are less risky. The cable conducts the lightening into thebuilding. Due to this behaviour an antenna installation requires dualprotection. The antenna needs to be grounded, and the cable requires asurge protector.Contact a local lightening specialist for advise on grounding. Below are somegeneral hints on lightening protection:! Never mount an antenna though the roof, only on the roof! Keep the antenna cable as much as possible out doors! The cable shield needs to be grounded on the highest possible point, andat the point of entering the building.! Place a surge protector on the antenna connection at the bridge, and alsoon the power supply of the bridgeLightening protection is a profession. A specialist supplies a professionalinstallation that reduces the risks of damage caused by lightening strikes.No Wires Needed advises to always use a professional lighteningspecialist.
Wireless LAN to LAN bridge ManualPage 20 12-10-992.2 Basic Alignment of the antennaDue to its directive behaviour an antenna needs to be aligned. Alignment isdone by maximising the antenna signal and by minimising phase noise. Thephase noise directly influences bit error rate. The alignment is essentialbecause certain weather conditions can degrade the signal strength. To avoidlink dropouts with bad weather the antennas need to receive the strongestsignal possible with the lowest possible phase noise. In most situations a highsignal level means a low bit error rate, but it does not go without saying. Insome cases the lowest Bite Error Rate is reached at a signal strength levelthat is not the highest possible.The bridge has got a Radio Signal Strength Indicator (RSSI) and a SQ2indicator. These indicators need to be used during alignment. Both indicatorsare displayed at the same time.To be able to read the RSSI and SQ2 the bridge needs to be connected to acomputer via a small hub. This computer needs to be equipped with anEthernet card.The set-up depicted in figure 2.3 needs to be made.Picture 2.3 Interconnection during installationPicture 2.4. The power connectorPicture 2.5. The Ethernet connector
Wireless LAN to LAN bridge ManualPage 21 12-10-99On the other side of the bridge, connect the antenna and bridge unit theregular way. Always use the antenna connector 1 for this, the network doesnot have to be connected to it. If you have a directive antenna, aim it at theother antenna.Figure 2.6This diagram is based on a 10Base-T (RJ-45) connection. This connector islocated on the back side of the bridge unit. Picture 2.4 shows the Ethernetconnector. After interconnecting the units, they can be powered up. Thepower switch is next to the power connector. See picture 2.3.Figure 2.7. The led indicatorsThe LED indicators (fig.2.7) display the status of the bridge. The power LED,on the right, displays the power status. Green means a correct power feed,red indicates wrong firmware or power failure.The LED in the middle displays the network status. If the bridge is connectedto a network it will light-up green, otherwise it will be red or off.NOTE: The bridge unit is equipped with two antenna connectors (1 & 2).Always use connector 1, Connector 2 is only used inspecial cases by anexperienced installer. For information about using the second antennaoption, please contact No Wires Needed.The left hand side LED displays the radio link status. The client function ofthis LED differs from the server. The radio link LED of the server will blinkas soon as it is transmitting a beacon, approximately 10 times persecond, even if there is no connection to the client. The client will blinkas soon as it receives a beacon.
Wireless LAN to LAN bridge ManualPage 22 12-10-99It is this function that is used for the first alignment. First, install the serverside of the bridge. Aim the server antenna (unless it is an onmi antenna)towards the client side of the bridge. Then power up the server side.Secondly, the client side needs to be installed. Aim the client antennatowards the server side and power-up the client unit. This should result in ablinking radio link LED at the client side. Please remember the server radiolink LED will always blink, while the client LED blinks only when it receives abeacon. If the client radio link LED is not blinking realign the antennas (bothserver and client side).
Wireless LAN to LAN bridge ManualPage 23 12-10-992.3 Configuration of the bridge unitsThis chapter describes the configuration of the bridge during alignment. Thismeans that certain settings or parameters are not mentioned because they dono effect the alignment of the antennas. Chapter 3 will give a clear descriptionof the meaning of each option, and when to change or use that option.Start the Bconfig program. Firstly, the MAC address of the bridge unitconnected to the antenna needs to be entered. The MAC address can befound on the backside label.Figure 2.8When the bridge is powered up for the first time, the top IP address field isempty. To set an IP address select ‘Set a fixed IP address’; then enter theMAC address, IP address, Subnet mask, and finally the default gateway. Ifyou have a DHCP server within your network you can select the DHCPoption, an IP address is then automatically assigned. If you prefer to useDHCP because of its centralised administration, but want a fixed IP addressfor the bridge unit, you can make a reservation for the MAC address in theDHCP server.After this information is entered press the ‘Connect’ button. Then the systemdescription will display the bridge name and firmware version.After entering this information select the ‘Device’ tab. The following screenwill be displayed:Figure 2.9
Wireless LAN to LAN bridge ManualPage 24 12-10-99In this menu the radio settings can be set. It contains the following options:! SSID (name of the link, both sides need the same name)! Encrypt using AirLock™! MAC properties! Contention window (use if more data goes upstream thandownstream)! ACK window (use when large distances need to be covered)! Short retry limit! RTS/CTS threshold! Long retry limit! Fragmentation threshold! Physical properties:! Antenna settings! Regulatory domain! Channel! ED thresholdMost of these settings do not require any changes for normal operations.Point-to-point links up to 3 km do not need any changes from the default MACsettings. If the distance exceeds 3 km, increase the minimum of the ACKwindow to 10.A new installation does require the SSID, Regulatory domain and Channel tobe set.The SSIDThis is the name of the bridge link. The client and the server need to havethe same name in this field (the only restriction for this setting).The Regulatory domainWith reference to the table shown on page 35 The Regulatory Domain,some countries have the FCC rules applied, other countries have the ETSIrules applied with some minor changes as shown in the table.ChannelThis setting also needs to be the same on both sides of the bridge. Thissetting becomes important if multiple bridge links are installed. It could be thatone bridge link will interfere with the other bridge link. By choosing anotherchannel, interference can be avoided. Within ETSI the available channelsettings are channel 1, 7, and 13. Within the FCC domain the availablechannel settings are channel 1, 6 and 11.These channels are not interferingand need to be used when bridges are co-located.The other settings are described in chapter 3. These do not need to bechanged for normal use. If you do, however, change the settings and it has anegative effect on the link quality, the settings can be changed back to theoriginal values without damaging the bridge.Antenna settingsMake sure the antenna options selected match your set-up. The diversityoption will influence the performance if only one antenna is connected.
Wireless LAN to LAN bridge ManualPage 25 12-10-992.4 Fine tuning of the bridge LinkThe link quality is measured via the Tuning tab. Two quality indicators aredisplayed. These are:! RSSI (radio signal strength indicator)! SQ2 (indication for quality of received signal)The tuning selection looks like this:Figure 2.10Two lines are displayed. The top one (green) represents the radio signalstrength indicator (RSSI), the other (red) represents the signal quality (SQ2).Before the signal quality measurement can be started, the MAC address ofthe other side of the bridge needs to be entered in the PEER field.It is also possible to change the update speed of the measurements.Remember: If this measurement is activated, no normal IP traffic ispossible.So this mode can only be used during trouble-shooting and installation.The status bar at the bottom of the screen shows the current status of thelink.The alignmentThe alignment is done by maximising the radio signal strength and minimisingthe SQ2 indicator. Slowly turning the antenna left and right, up and down, willaffect the RSSI. Now start to peak this level.After finding the peak level, monitor the SQ2 indicator. This indicator displaysthe multipath effects. Now try to peak this indicator by again turning theantenna very slowly in all directions. Once you have found the SQ2 signalpeak, monitor the RSSI indicator again and verify that it is still at anacceptable level.Repeat this procedure on both sides of the bridge several times.
Wireless LAN to LAN bridge ManualPage 26 12-10-99Figure 2.11The chart below displays the signal level versus the RSSI, SQ2, and thespeed. Speed is displayed as a percentage of the maximum. If SQ2 displays100%, the red line in the tuning screen displays 0. You can use this graph todetermine if the throughput fits the RSSI and SQ-2 value the tuning functiondisplays.
Wireless LAN to LAN bridge ManualPage 27 12-10-992.5 Installing the bridge unitThe bridge unit should be installed in a dry and temperature controlledlocation. The bridge units should not be exposed to hostile environments;temperature should not drop below zero or exceed fifty degrees Celsius.Preferably mount the unit inside; if that is not possible use the outdoorhousing. The housing supplied/advised by No Wires Needed contains aheating element and a sensor.The antenna is supplied with an antenna cable. Use this cable with yourinstallation. If for some reason this cable is too short, consult No WiresNeeded for another cable. If the cable is too long, do not cut the cable or rollthe cable. The length of the cable determines the characteristics of thesystem.Note:If you cut the antenna cable the system will not perform according tothe specs. Modifying the cable will void NWN’s warranty. If for somereason changing the antenna cable is unavoidable please contact NWN.
Wireless LAN to LAN bridge ManualPage 28 12-10-993.0 BConfig configuration programThis chapter describes the configuration program of the bridge. This programallows you to install and maintain your bridge link. It contains an excellentperformance monitor for fine-tuning and troubleshooting.Within this chapter all options in the program are described together with thecircumstances in which it is useful to use these setting.
Wireless LAN to LAN bridge ManualPage 29 12-10-993.1 InstallationBconfig runs on any Windows 95/ 98 or Windows NT machine with TCP/IPinstalled.To install the Bconfig program, insert disk 1 into your disk drive and run theBconfig setup.exe. The set-up wizard will guide you through the installationprocess.Figure 3.1Select the directory you want to install BConfig in.After installation is finished you can start the BConfig program. It will start atthe network screen. The network screen allows you to enter the MAC addressor the IP number of the bridge. It also allows you to set or change thecommunity string.Figure 3.2
Wireless LAN to LAN bridge ManualPage 30 12-10-993.2 The network configurationThe Network configuration screen.The bridge can be configured before it is actually installed. The configurationconsists of two parts, the wireless settings and the network settings.The network settings contain the following parameters:• IP address (DHCP or manual)• Sub-net mask• Default route/ gateway• Community string (password)• Lock (remote management on/off)If an IP address is already set, only the IP address needs to be entered at thetop field (IP address or DNS name of WBS/WBC). Click the Connect button tocontinue. The system description will then be shown, the MAC address etc.If the bridge is connected for the first time, two situations are possible. Thefirst situation is when you have the bridge connected to a network without aDHCP server, and the second situation is where there is a DHCP serverinstalled in the network.If a DHCP server is used in the network where the bridge is installed, firstcheck the IP address it has been assigned. Then enter that number at thenetwork screen and press Connect. This will display the MAC address, sub-net mask, and default gateway.If no DHCP server is running select ‘Set an fixed IP address’. Then enter theMAC address and the IP address manually. Also, the sub-net mask anddefault gateway has to be entered. Press Connect. The network side of thebridge unit is now configured. Repeat this procedure on both sides of thebridge.Figure 3.3
Wireless LAN to LAN bridge ManualPage 31 12-10-99Below you find a summary of all settings in the network settings part.IP address or DNS name of WBS/WBC:The configured bridge can be accessed via this field.Community stringThe password protection on the bridge settings.Use DHCP or BOOTP to obtain an IP address.If a DHCP server is installed, an IP address can automatically be assigned tothe bridge.Set a fixed IP addressWith this option an IP address can be manually set. First the MAC addressneeds to be entered. If an IP address is already configured, it will appear afterentering the MAC address. Sub-net mask and default gateway can also beentered in to this field.Change write communityThis option allows you to change the password of the bridge unit. If theLOCK field is flagged, the bridge can not be accessed via the network. It canonly be configured directly.
Wireless LAN to LAN bridge ManualPage 32 12-10-993.3 The device settingsThe radio setting can influence the performance of the link. After installation itis essential to go through each parameter and determine the best settings.Some parameters are related to each other, this means that the bestcombination needs to be found. Pay special attention during fine-tuning to theED the threshold, ACK window, and the contention window.In the Device tab the following parameters can be set:• SSID (name of the link)• Security algorithm used (AirLock™ or none)• Radio channel (preferred 1, 7 or 13)• Bit rate (Auto, 2 Mbps, 5,5 Mbps, 10 Mbps)• Antenna settings• Access control setting (MAC address client )Figure 3.4Link Name (ESSID)The link name is the link ID. Both sides of the bridge need to have the samename. This name can be considered the general link name.Encrypt link using AirLock™ securityThis option allows you to switch the security on or off. It is advised to haveAirLock™ always switched on. Airlock™ provides you superior security andprotects you against preaking, eavesdrops, hacking etc. The appendixcontains the AirLock™ white paper.Contention windowThe contention window default is 31 to 1023. This is the back-off windowexpressed in slot time. 1 means 1slot time, which equals 20 microsecond.This parameter may need to be manipulated when the traffic is out of balanceor if the link is set to point-to-multipoint. Out of balance means more dataupstream then downstream, or vice versa. Having the diversity optionselected with in the antenna field will also creates some extra requirementsfor the contention window. Diversity makes the radio listen to both antennas.This does not happen at the same time; it will constantly switch between thetwo antennas. So it will listen 1 slot time to antenna 1 and the next slot time toantenna 2. This means that theoretically it can take 50% more time to receivethe right signal. Therefore increase the minimum value of the contentionwindow when using diversity.
Wireless LAN to LAN bridge ManualPage 33 12-10-99ACK windowThis is the waiting time for the acknowledgement, again expressed in slottime. 1 unit is 1slot time (roundtrip) and represents 3 km. Increase thisnumber for large distances. 2 represents 6 km, 3 represents 9 km etc. It willnot harm the link if the ACK window is larger than the corresponding distance.To fine tune the throughput, increase the number, measure the throughput,and then start to decrease the ACK window while monitoring the throughput.An excellent way of measuring the throughput is the program called‘Bricks’.Short retry limitThe short retry limit sets the number of retries for packets smaller than thenumber defined in the RTS/CTS threshold field.RTS/CTS thresholdPackages longer than this value will be transmitted via ‘request to send/ clearto send’ routine. This method of transmitting provides an extremely secureand reliable link, but will slow it down significant. Since the reliability of thelink without RTS/CTS communication is already outstanding it is advised touse this option only if complex and hostile environments.Long retry limitThe long retry limit sets the number of retries for packets longer than thenumber defined in the RTS/CTS threshold field.Fragmentation thresholdThis value sets the threshold where above which the packets will befragmented.Antenna settingsThe bridge contains two antenna ports. With this option you can select thefollowing options:! Receive and send on antenna 1! Receive and send on antenna 2! Receive on 1 send on 2! Antenna diversityBe very careful selecting the right antenna setting. Having diversity switchedon while only one antenna is connected will harm the performance of the link.Also make sure that the contention window is not below 31 if diversity isswitched on.
Wireless LAN to LAN bridge ManualPage 34 12-10-99Regulatory domainSome countries have the FCC rules applied, other countries have the ETSIrules applied with some minor changes as shown in the table. Examples areFrance and Spain. In these countries some channel settings are not allowed.RegulatoryDomain Area PermissibleChannels BridgePredefinedchannelsFCC United States 1 – 11 1, 6, 11DOC Canada 1 – 11 1, 6, 11ETSI Europe exceptSpain and France 1 – 13 1, 7, 13SPAIN Spain 10 10FRANCE France 10 10MKK Japan 14 14ChannelThe options displayed in this field are the allowed channels with in the chosenregulatory domain. Use this option if multiple bridges are co-located or anindoor wireless network is installed. With the channel settings, interference ofother equipment working in the same frequency band can be avoided.ED ThresholdED threshold allows you to kill background noise. If there is interference fromother weaker signals on the same frequency, the ED threshold can be usedfor reducing the influence of this noise. If it is set to 0, the unit will adjust itself.64 represents the highest sensitivity possible. 1 represents the lowestsensitivity.The tuning tab of the Bconfig program displays the RSSI. The RSSIparameter displays the signal strength, which corresponds with the EDThreshold. For example, if the RSSI displays an average of 44, adjust the EDThreshold to 40. This way you optimise the receiver to the link signal.As the noise level with in the link goes up, the ED threshold needs to godown.Some other notesFine tuning a link requires knowledge of the IEEE 802.11. For every link therecan be an optimal configuration found. Understanding the influence of eachparameter is essential to find this optimal configuration. Experiment andmonitor each change to reach this configuration.
Wireless LAN to LAN bridge ManualPage 35 12-10-993.4 Resetting the bridgeYou can reset the wireless bridge unit’s settings to factory defaults by pushinga paperclip in the little hole, next to the power switch, while switching thebridge unit on.When you push a paperclip in the reset hole while the bridge unit is switchedon, only the lock set by BConfig is deactivated.Figure 2.5
Wireless LAN to LAN bridge ManualPage 36 12-10-994.0 TroubleshootingThis chapter displays the common problems that can occur whilesetting up a bridge link. If your problem is not related to any of thebelow mentioned problems please contact your reseller. If you arethe reseller, contact No Wires Needed.Problem: No connection between the networksIf the radio LED of the client is not blinking:! Check if both sides are powered up.! Check if the distance range does not exceed the range! Check if the channel settings on both sides are the same! Check if antenna is connected or cable is not broken! Check if antennas are in line of sight (NO obstacles areallowed!!)! Check if no other device is transmitting on the same frequency.You can do this by changing the frequency settings on bothsides.! Bring the ED threshold downIf the radio LED of the client is blinking:! Check if the SSID of both bridges are the sameProblem: Can not access the bridge settings via network! Check if SUBNET mask and default gateway is set according thenetwork the bridge is connected to. (to do this you need to connectdirect to the unit, see configuration for alignment)! Check if the unit has got an IP address (again use the first alignmentsetup)Problem: Low throughput on the link! Check if the average of SQ2 is below 5 (go to monitor screen inBconfig setting)! Check if the ACK time fits the range.! Check if the network card of the PC you are measuring with canhandle the throughput.Problem: Link drops away every now and then! Check the antenna alignment! Check the line of sight (trees)! Check antenna mountingIf this not results into a stable link, please contact your reseller.
Wireless LAN to LAN bridge ManualPage 37 12-10-995.0 Specs5.1 Bridge specsStandards compliance:• IEEE 802.11 standard for wireless LAN• Compliant with ETS 300 328 and ETS 300 826• (CE marked)• in USA compliant with FCC (47 CFR) Part15C, Section 15.247• all major networking standards (including IP, IPX)Security:• AirLock™ Access control, 128 bit encryption, No key managementRadio/ modem:• Frequency range: 2.4-2.483,5 GHz• Supported bit rates: 11 Mbps / 5.5 Mbps (as well as interoperable withIEEE 802.11 Direct Sequence Spread Spectrum compliant devices thatsupport1 Mbps and 2 Mbps)• Modulation:1.0Mbps DBPSK2.0 Mbps DQPSK5.5 / 11 Mbps CCK• Number of Channels:Europe: 13 (3 non-overlapping)US: 11 (3 non-overlapping)France: 4 (1 non-overlapping)• Transmit power: Dish Antenna 0dBmYagi Antenna 7dBmOmni Antenna 16dBm• Range:Omni antenna: Max. 1km @ 11 MbpsYagi Antenna: Max. 3km @ 11 MbpsDish antenna: Max. 6km @ 11 Mbps• Antenna system: A variety of antennas can be attached for any specificsituation• ASBF™ Automatic link speed optimiser.Wireless LAN interface:• Standards: IEEE 802.11CSMA /CANetwork Interfaces:! Standards: IEEE 802.3 CSMA/CD Supports 1024 Mac addresses! Connection type: 10Base2 (BNC) and 10Base-T(RJ-45)! Mobility: Seamless roaming across cell boundariesMechanical:! Dimensions: 180 x 220 x 40 mmEnvironmental:! Temperature Range: 0 - 40 °C operatingTemperature 95% humidity (non-condensing)(US) AC 110V 60 Hz to 9VDC converter Included(Europe) AC 240V 50Hz to 9VDC converter Included
Wireless LAN to LAN bridge ManualPage 38 12-10-99Management and configuration! Network:SNMP agent with support for MIB-II and IEEE 802.11MIB! LEDs: -Ethernet connection-RF activity-Power! Utility software included
Wireless LAN to LAN bridge ManualPage 39 12-10-995.2 Omni antenna specs (Art number 10380125)Due to ETSI limitations the Omni antenna can only be used with the followingbridges within Europe:! WB-S1100 standard range Art code: 10370225 & 10370124! WB-C1100 standard range Art code: 10370125 & 10370226Features! Light weight – slim profile! Patented Printed circuit technology! Watertight Ultrasonic and O-ring sealed! Groundplane Independent! Stainless steel hardwareDescriptionThe omni antenna consists of vertical polarised collinear arrays utilising apatented printed circuit technology for the radiating elements. This ruggedantenna is housed in a UV stable ultrasonically bonded polycarbonaterandom. Installation is easy due to the small footprint, mounting system andthe convenient pigtail connection. The Omni antenna is groundplaneindependent and can be mounted in any direction. Mounting bracket andfixed length cable is included. (cable and unique connector loss is 4.5 dB)SpecificationsFrequency 2400- 2500 MhzPeak gain 7 dBi typicalBeamwidth – 3dB 22 degreesPolarisation VerticalNominal impedance 50 OhmVSWR 2.0:1 MaxRF power average 50 WLength 40 cmPigtail 12” N-femaleEIRP 2 dBi typical
Wireless LAN to LAN bridge ManualPage 40 12-10-995.3 Sector antenna specs (Art number 10380114)Due to ETSI limitations the sector antenna can only be used with thefollowing bridges within Europe:! WB-S1100 Medium range Art code: 10370214 & 10370113! WB-C1100 Medium range Art code: 10370114 & 10370215Features! UV stable material! Maximum gain! Low profile housing! Sable performance across the band! Easy mountingDescriptionThe sector antenna is designed to cover frequencies between 2300 and 2500MHz with a VSWR of less that 1.5:1. The small and low profile housingprovides a maximum gain of 13 dBi. Easy mounting allows you to apply theantenna in a wide variety of locations. Mounting bracket and fixed lengthcable is included. (cable and unique connector loss is 4.5 dB)SpecificationsFrequency 2300- 2500 MhzPeak gain 13 dBi typicalBeamwidth – 3dB H 35 degreesPolarisation VerticalNominal impedance 50 OhmVSWR 1.5:1 MaxRF power average 20 WDimentions 220 x 200 x 28 mmPigtail Female TNCEIRP 10 dBi typical
Wireless LAN to LAN bridge ManualPage 41 12-10-995.4 Dish antenna specs (Art number 10380103)Due to ETSI limitations the dish antenna can only be used with the followingbridges within Europe:! WB-S1100 long range Art code: 10370102 & 10370203! WB-C1100 long range Art code: 10370103 & 10370204Features! Strong and recyclable ABS! Metal parts are stainless steel! Exceptional design! Increased performance in bandwidth and gain! Fast and easy installationDescriptionThe dish antenna is optimised for use with the No Wires Needed wirelessLAN to LAN bridge. It can withstand the harshest environments of snow,wind, rain, and ice. The dish is supplied with galvanised clamps for polemount or wall mount. Mounting bracket and fixed length cable is included.(cable and unique connector loss is 4.5 dB)SpecificationsFrequency 2300- 2500 MhzPeak gain 22,2 dBi typicalBeamwidth – 3dB 13,8 degreesPolarisation LinearNominal impedance 50 OhmVSWR 1,8:1 MaxRF power average 50 WDish diameter 620mmPigtail Female NDish material ABS plast UV resistantRadome material ABS plast UV resistantMetal hardware Stainless steelTemperature -40 to +80 degreesWeight 2,5 KgEIRP 18 dBi typical
Wireless LAN to LAN bridge ManualPage 42 12-10-995.5 power supply specifications• AC input range 90~264VAC/0.5A• Inrush current cold start,<60A peak @ 230VAC• Hold up time 10ms @ full load, nominal line• Overload protectionpulsing mode, auto recovery• Over voltage protection 110%~145%• Operating temperature 0-30°C @ 100%, 40°C @ 50% load• Withstand voltage I/P-O/P:3KVAC, I/P-FG:1.5KVAC, 1min.• Safety standards UL 1950, CSA 22.2, TUV EN60950• EMC standards EN55022, EN50082-1• Humidity 20%~90% RH• Length of output cable 120cm (typical)• Plug of DC output 5.5ϕx2.1ϕx11mm, center “+”• Type No. MA15-090,• Output 9V, 1.67A,• Tol. ±5%,• R&N 90mV• Eff. 70%,• P.p. 26
Wireless LAN to LAN bridge ManualPage 43 12-10-99

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