Motorola WR850GP - Manual (Page 15)

WR850 2-1
Section 2: Installation
This section will help you:
• physically install your WR850, and
• establish a first connection between a PC and the WR850.
Once this first connection is made, you can configure the WR850 to support all of the other
wired and/or wireless connections you need.
Physical Installation of the WR850
Positioning Your Router for Optimal Wireless Performance
Your wireless router uses a radio transmission technology defined by the Institute of
Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) called 802.11 Wireless Fidelity (Wi-Fi). This
standard is subdivided into distinct categories of speed and the frequency spectrum used,
designated by the lower case letter after the standard.
For example, your router supports both the ‘b’ and ‘g’ specifications. The 802.11b
specification transmits data rates up to 11 Mbps while the 802.11g specification transmits
data rates up to 54 Mbps. These are theoretical standards so your performance may vary.
The radio waves radiate out in a donut-shaped pattern. The waves travel through walls and
floors, but transmission power and distance are affected. The theoretical distance limit is
1,000 feet (305 meters), but actual throughput and distance varies.
Both standards operate in the 2.4 GHz range, meaning other electrical appliances also
might interfere with the router – televisions, radios, microwave ovens, or 2.4 GHz cordless
telephones. Therefore, positioning your router where it encounters the least interference
helps maintain a better connection.
The following lists the expected wireless range of the router. This table is only a guide and
coverage varies due to local conditions.
Data Rate Open Area Closed Area
54 Mbps Up to 100 ft (30m) Up to 60 ft (18m)
11 Mbps Up to 900 feet (275 m) Up to 160 feet (49 m)
5.5 Mbps Up to 1300 feet (396 m) Up to 200 feet (61 m)
2 or 1 Mbps Up to 1500 feet (457 m) Up to 300 feet (91 m)
To achieve the best wireless performance, review these guidelines before deciding where
to place your router:
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Placing your base station in the physical center of your network is the best location
because the antenna sends out the signal in all directions.