Symbol Technologies AP-5131 - Manual (Page 45)

Hardware Installation 2-5
metal, concrete, walls or floors block transmission. Install the AP-5131 in open areas or add access
points as needed to improve coverage.
Antenna coverage is analogous to lighting. Users might find an area lit from far away to be not bright
enough. An area lit sharply might minimize coverage and create dark areas. Uniform antenna
placement in an area (like even placement of a light bulb) provides even, efficient coverage.
Place the AP-5131 using the following guidelines:
• Install the AP-5131 at an ideal height of 10 feet from the ground.
• Orient the AP-5131 antennae vertically for best reception.
• Point the AP-5131 antenna(s) downward if attaching to the ceiling.
Symbol recommends conducting a site survey to define and document radio interference obstacles
before installing the AP-5131 to maximize its radio coverage area.
2.4.1 Site Surveys
A site survey analyzes the installation environment and provides users with recommendations for
equipment and placement. The optimum placement of 802.11a access points differs from 802.11b/g
access points, because the locations and number of access points required are different to support
the radio coverage area.
Symbol recommends conducting a new site survey and developing a new coverage area floor plan
when switching from 2 or 11Mbps access points (AP-3021 or AP-4131 models) to 54Mbps access
points (AP-5131 models), as the device placement requirements are significantly different.
2.4.2 Antenna Options
Both Radio 1 and Radio 2 require one antenna and can optimally use two antennae per radio (4
antennae total for dual-radio models). Two antennae per radio provides diversity that can improve
performance and signal reception. Symbol supports two antenna suites for the AP-5131. One antenna