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Cisco Aironet 2700 Series User Manual

Cisco Aironet 2700 Series
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Cisco Systems, Inc.
www.cisco.com
Cisco Aironet Series 2700/3700 Access Points
Deployment Guide
Last Updated: May, 2014
Cisco Aironet Series 3700 Access Point
Abstract
This section covers the Cisco 3700 Series Access Points theory of operation and installation as part of a
Cisco wireless LAN (WLAN) solution. Subjects related include:
Choosing the right Access Point.
Differences between AP 3700 and AP 3600.
Feature module and ClientLink support.
Physical/Hardware details, mounting options, bracket choices, and installation considerations.
Antenna options, radiation patterns, and external antenna deployments.
Understanding spatial streams, MCS rates and beam-forming (802.11n Primer).
Review of 802.11ac and Wave-1 module for AP 3600.
Understanding 802.11ac and Wave-1 for the AP 3700.
Best Practices–Understanding Channel usage, 80 MHz, and available 11ac clients.
802.11ac performance considerations.
This document is intended for trained and experienced technical personnel familiar with the existing
Cisco Wireless Networking Group (WNG) product line and features.

Table of Contents

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Cisco Aironet 2700 Series Specifications

General IconGeneral
ModelCisco Aironet 2700 Series
CategoryWireless Access Point
Wireless Standards802.11a/b/g/n/ac
Frequency Band2.4 GHz and 5 GHz
Data Transfer RateUp to 1.3 Gbps
Mounting TypeCeiling, Wall
Ethernet Ports1x 10/100/1000BASE-T
Power Options802.3af/at PoE
Antenna TypeInternal
PoE SupportYes
Operating Temperature0°C to 40°C (32°F to 104°F)
Security Features802.1X, WPA/WPA2
ManagementCisco Prime Infrastructure

Summary

Abstract

Cisco Aironet Series 3700 Access Point Abstract

Covers theory of operation and installation of Cisco 3700 Series Access Points.

Choosing the Right Access Point

Cisco Aironet Access Point Models

Details the Cisco 3700 Series Access Point models and their capabilities.

AP Model Series Overview ('i', 'e', 'p')

Explains the 'i', 'e', and 'p' series models based on their design and use cases.

Differences between the AP 3700 and AP 3600

Mechanical Front Differences

Highlights visual differences in the mechanical front of AP 3700 and AP 3600.

AP 3700e Supports 802.11ac (Wave-1) Native

Explains AP 3700e's native 802.11ac support and feature module slot usage.

Feature Module Support

Wireless Security and Spectrum Intelligence (WSSI) Module

Details the WSSI module's functionality for spectrum analysis and security.

802.11ac (Wave-1) Functionality Module for AP 3600

Describes the 802.11ac Wave-1 option module for the AP 3600.

Beamforming – Understanding ClientLink

AP 3700 ClientLink 3.0 Capabilities

Explains AP 3700's ClientLink 3.0 support for 802.11ac and legacy clients.

AP 3600 ClientLink 2.0 and ECBF

Details AP 3600's ClientLink 2.0 and ECBF for 802.11n and 802.11ac.

Feature Comparison of AP 3600 and AP 3700

Key Feature Comparison Table

Compares key features like data rate, radios, beamforming, and modules.

Physical Dimensions and Mounting Options

Discusses physical dimensions and interchangeability of mounting options.

AP Mechanical Drawings and Installation Options

AP 1600/2600/3600 Mechanical Drawings

Provides mechanical drawings and dimensions for AP 1600, 2600, and 3600.

AP 3700 Mechanical Drawings and Installation

Provides drawings and discusses installation options and bracket choices for AP 3700.

Access Point Bracket Choices

Ceiling Installation Brackets

Details low-profile and universal brackets for ceiling installations.

Ceiling Grid Clips and Adapters

Explains different ceiling clips and channel adapters for grid mounting.

AP Mounting Methods

Mounting APs Directly into Ceiling Tiles

Details using optional bracket for mounting APs directly into ceiling tiles.

Wall Mounting APs

Discusses signal obstruction, antenna choice, and AP orientation for wall mounting.

Unique Installation Scenarios

Clean Room Installations

Details AP design suitable for clean room environments and their features.

Installing APs Above Ceiling Tiles

Aesthetics and Security Mounting Above Ceilings

Discusses installing APs above ceiling tiles for aesthetics or security.

T-Bar Hangar Accessories for Ceiling Mounting

Mentions third-party T-Bar hangars for mounting APs above ceiling tiles.

AP Installation in Harsh Environments

NEMA Enclosures for Stadiums and Harsh Areas

Recommends NEMA enclosures for harsh environments like stadiums.

Installing APs Above Ceiling Tiles: Best Practices

Provides guidance on installing APs above ceiling tiles to avoid obstructions.

Warehouse and Factory Installation Considerations

Site Surveys in Warehouses

Advises checking coverage at full stock levels in warehouses for accurate surveys.

AP Placement and Antenna Selection in Warehouses

Discusses AP placement and antenna types for warehouse aisles.

Cabling and Antenna Connection Recommendations

Ethernet Cable Standards (CAT6a)

Recommends CAT6a cabling for new installations adhering to 10GE standards.

Antenna Cable Length Considerations

Advises keeping antenna cable runs as short as possible for optimal performance.

Access Point Spacing and RF Considerations

AP Spacing for Channel Interference

Recommends spacing APs apart to avoid channel interference and degradation.

WLAN Design for High Density Client Environments

Guide for designing WLANs for high-density client environments.

Not Recommended for DAS Deployments

States that Cisco does not recommend or certify Wi-Fi over DAS deployments.

DAS Vendor Responsibilities and Elevator Installations

DAS Vendor Support and Responsibilities

Outlines responsibilities of DAS vendors for coverage and RF issues.

Challenges of Elevator Coverage and Installation

Discusses challenges of achieving elevator coverage and following local regulations.

External Antenna Options for APs

Lists available dual-band antennas for specific AP models.

Antenna Options for Outdoor and Stadium Deployments

"P" Series Antennas for Outdoor Use

Recommends "P" series antennas for outdoor deployments in the US.

Stadium Applications High Gain Antenna

Mentions high-gain antenna for stadium applications with FCC approval.

Using Cisco Antennas

Advises using Cisco antennas whenever possible for optimal performance.

AIR-ANT2524Dx-R Dual-Band Dipole Antenna Specifications

Technical Specifications for Dipole Antenna

Lists technical specifications for the AIR-ANT2524Dx-R dual-band dipole antenna.

Dipole Antenna Radiation Patterns

Shows radiation patterns for the AIR-ANT2524Dx-R dipole antenna.

AIR-ANT2566P4W-R Dual-Band Patch Antenna Specifications

Patch Antenna Technical Specifications

Details specifications for the 4-element dual-band patch antenna.

Patch Antenna Radiation Patterns

Displays radiation patterns for the patch antenna.

AIR-ANT2524V4C-R Dual-Band Omni Antenna Specifications

Omni Antenna Technical Specifications

Lists specifications for the 4-element dual-band omni antenna.

Omni Antenna Radiation Patterns

Shows radiation patterns for the omni antenna.

AIR-ANT2544V4M-R Dual-Band Omni Antenna Specifications

MIMO Omni Antenna Technical Specifications

Details specifications for the 4-element MIMO omni antenna.

MIMO Omni Antenna Radiation Patterns

Displays radiation patterns for the dual-band omni antenna.

Stadium Antenna Option for AP 3702p

Describes a high-gain antenna option for stadium deployments.

AIR-ANT2513P4M-N Antenna Mechanicals and Specifications

AIR-ANT2513P4M-N Antenna Specifications

Lists specifications and mechanical details for the AIR-ANT2513P4M-N antenna.

AP 3600 and 802.11ac Module Features

AP 3600 3SS and Beamforming Capabilities

Explains AP 3600's support for 3SS and beamforming.

MCS Rates for AP 2600/3600 and AP 1600

Lists supported MCS rates for AP 2600/3600 and AP 1600.

3 Spatial Stream Clients and ClientLink

Emerging 3SS Clients and Performance Impact

Discusses the increasing prevalence of 3SS clients and their performance impact.

Understanding Legacy ClientLink 1.0 and 2.0

Describes ClientLink 1.0 and 2.0 functionality for legacy and 802.11n clients.

ClientLink 2.0 vs. IEEE Beamforming

ClientLink 2.0 Feature Comparison Table

Compares ClientLink 2.0 with IEEE Enhanced Beam Forming (EBF).

Beamforming Interference Concepts

Explains constructive and destructive interference in beamforming.

ClientLink 1.0 vs. ClientLink 2.0 Visual Comparison

Visually compares ClientLink 1.0 (1SS) and ClientLink 2.0 (3SS).

ClientLink Functionality Summary

AP 3600/3700 Beamforming Capabilities

Details AP 3600/3700's ability to beamform to 3SS clients.

ClientLink 3.0 vs. ClientLink 2.0 Capabilities

Summarizes ClientLink 3.0 (AP 3700) and ClientLink 2.0 (AP 3600) capabilities.

Cisco ClientLink and IEEE ECBF Differences

Value and Comparison of ECBF and ClientLink 3.0

Explains the value and differences between ECBF and ClientLink 3.0.

Site Survey Considerations for ClientLink

Discusses site survey considerations related to AP cell sizes and ClientLink.

AP Site Survey Ranges and Sensitivity

AP 3600 Site Survey Ranges and Cell Sizes

Shows typical cell sizes and ranges for AP 3600 site surveys.

Site Survey Sensitivity and SNR Metrics

Provides sensitivity and SNR data for different MCS indexes and spatial streams.

Site Survey Guidelines and AP Placement

RSSI/SNR Guidelines for Site Surveys

Presents RSSI/SNR guidelines for different data rates and channels.

General AP Placement Best Practices

General advice on AP placement close to users and avoiding metal objects.

Channel Usage and Reuse Strategies

Discusses channel usage and reuse strategies for 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands.

Client Device Impact on Coverage

Advises checking client coverage with various client devices.

Site Survey Best Practices and 802.11ac Features

Verifying Coverage with Worst-Performing Clients

Recommends verifying coverage using the worst-performing clients.

802.11ac Wave-1 Features Overview

Details new features and functionality of 802.11ac Wave-1.

80 MHz Channel Bonding in 802.11ac

Describes 80 MHz channel bonding in 802.11ac for increased throughput.

802.11ac Module and Channel Bonding Details

802.11ac Module Limitations and ClientLink Value

Discusses AP 3600 802.11ac module limitations and ClientLink synergy.

802.11ac 256-QAM and MCS Rates

Explains 802.11ac's introduction of 256-QAM and its MCS rates.

Channel Bonding for Bandwidth Enhancement

Explains 80 MHz channel bonding in 802.11ac for increased bandwidth.

802.11ac Data Rates and Spatial Streams

Importance of Channel Bonding for Speed

Discusses why channel bonding is important for achieving faster speeds.

802.11ac Wave-1 Data Rates (2 & 3 Spatial Streams)

Shows typical Wave-1 data rates for 2 and 3 spatial streams.

AP 3600 802.11ac Radio Module

AP 3600 Radio Module Features and Operation

Lists features and explains the operation of the AP 3600 802.11ac radio module.

AP 3600 Module Powering Options

Cisco Switch PoE Support for 3600 Modules

Details Cisco switch PoE support for AP 3600 modules via different PoE standards.

Low Power (802.3af) Module Powering

Illustrates powering options for the AC radio module with low power PoE.

AP 3600e Antenna Radiation and Mounting

AP 3600e Module Antenna Radiation Patterns

Explains how the AP 3600e module antennas operate omni-directionally.

Wall Mounting AP 3600e with Modules

Advises on wall mounting AP 3600e with modules and antenna types.

AP 3600 Blended Radio Operation and Client Band Steering

Blended Radio Operation (Integrated + Module)

Details how the integrated and module radios work together as a blended radio.

Client Band Steering Benefits

Discusses client band steering and its advantages.

AP 3600 Radio Interfaces and Client Associations

Virtual/Blended Radio Operation Explained

Explains AP 3600's virtual or blended radio operation with modules.

Identifying Client Associations via Slot ID

Explains how to identify client associations via Slot ID in the controller.

Troubleshooting AP 3600 Module Issues

Common Module Installation and Configuration Problems

Lists common issues with AP module installation and configuration.

Diagnosing Missing AP Modules

Provides steps to diagnose if the module is not recognized by the AP.

Client Connection Caveats for 802.11ac Module

Lists caveats for clients connecting to the 802.11ac module.

AP 3700 802.11ac Features and Design

Unsupported Module Features

Lists features not supported by the 802.11ac module (MFP, CCX, IAPP).

AP 3700 Architecture and Shielding

Details the AP 3700's architecture, ClientLink 3.0, and metal shielding.

AP 3700 Power Over Ethernet (PoE)

AP 3700 PoE Powering Options and Modes

Explains AP 3700 powering via PoE, local power, or injectors and modes.

Lower PoE Budgets and AP 3700 Functionality

Discusses AP 3700 functionality with lower PoE budgets like 15.4W.

PoE Injector Compatibility and Selection

Clarifies compatibility between PoE injectors and APs/modules.

AP 3700 PoE Power Status Indicators

AP 3700 in 802.3af (15.4 Watt) Medium Power Mode

Shows AP 3700 in medium power mode (15.4W), conserving power.

AP 3700 in Full Power Mode

Shows AP 3700 in full power mode with adequate power supply.

Cisco Switch PoE Support for AP 3700 Powering

PoE Support Table for AP 3700 Series

Table showing Cisco switch PoE support for 3700 APs and modules.

802.11ac Channel Bonding and Availability

Discusses 802.11ac channel availability and 80 MHz bonding in the US.

Wireless Channel Allocation Plans

US Theater FCC Channel Allocation Plan

Shows the current FCC channel allocation plan for the US theater.

ETSI and Japan Channel Allocation Plans

Shows channel allocation plans for ETSI and Japan regions.

Future Spectrum Allocation Trends

Discusses future spectrum allocation and potential channel increases.

Proposed Channel Plan and Client Channel Usage

Proposed Channel Plan Considerations

Summarizes proposed channel plans and considerations for 80 MHz bonding.

Client Perspective on Channels and Bonding

Explains how channels and bonding affect client connectivity and speed.

80 MHz Channel Bonding Examples

2-Stream Client Example at 80 MHz

Shows an example of a 2-stream client bonded at 80 MHz.

Setting AP Channel Width for 80 MHz Links

Advises setting AP channel width to 80 MHz for 80 MHz client links.

Configuring AP 3700 for 80 MHz Channels

RF Channel Assignment via Controller

Shows how to configure AP 3700 channel and width via the controller.

802.11ac Client Interoperability

Details hardware/software configurations for interoperability testing.

Client Interoperability Testing

Laptop and Client Interoperability List

Lists laptops and clients tested for interoperability with Cisco APs.

802.11ac Devices on the Market

Integrated and USB 802.11ac Devices

Lists integrated and USB clients supporting 802.11ac.

Ethernet Bridges for 802.11ac

Lists Ethernet bridges supporting 802.11ac.

Variables Impacting 802.11ac Performance

Discusses variables like drivers, ports, and bandwidth affecting performance.

802.11ac Client and Performance Factors

802.11ac Client and Driver Information

Details 802.11ac clients, streams, DFS, and driver versions.

Checking Spectrum Cleanliness

Advises checking spectrum for Wi-Fi and non-Wi-Fi interference.

Client Impact on Wi-Fi Performance

Discusses client interface type and spatial stream impact on performance.

Client Distance and Modulation Maintenance

Explains how distance affects modulation maintenance for 256 QAM.

AP Mounting and Data Rate Monitoring

11n vs. 11ac Modulation and Bonding Impact

Compares 11n and 11ac modulation and 80 MHz channel bonding.

Optimal AP Mounting Locations and Practices

Advises on AP placement for close-in tests and general mounting best practices.

Examples of Non-Optimal AP Installations

Shows examples of non-optimal AP installations to avoid.

Examples of Poor AP Installations

Avoiding Metal and Clutter in Installations

Illustrates poor installations near metal and clutter.

Incorrect Patch Antenna Mounting Against Metal

Shows incorrect patch antenna mounting against a metal fence.

Impact of Metal Clutter and Proper AP Mounting

Metal Clutter's Negative Impact on Performance

Explains how metal clutter creates multipath and degrades performance.

Level and Secure AP Mounting Best Practices

Emphasizes mounting APs level and securely, away from metal objects.

Poor AP Installation Examples and Antenna Orientation

High Mounting and Conductive Foil Installation Issues

Shows poor installation with AP too high and buried in conductive foil.

Correct Dipole Antenna Orientation for Vertical Polarity

Explains correct dipole antenna orientation for vertical polarity.

Reduced Coverage from Incorrect Antenna Orientation

Illustrates reduced coverage due to incorrect dipole antenna orientation.

Outdoor Antenna Mounting Best Practices

Mounting Outdoor Antennas with Wires Down

Advises mounting outdoor antennas with wires down and not obstructing drain holes.

Outdoor Antenna Lead Orientation and Weatherproofing

Outdoor Antenna Lead Downward Mounting

Reiterates mounting outdoor antennas with leads DOWN to prevent water entry.

Using Coax-Seal for Weatherproofing Antenna Connectors

Recommends Coax-Seal for weatherproofing antenna connectors.

Cisco Aironet Series 2700 Access Point Features

Key Features of the Cisco Aironet 2700 AP

Lists key features of the Cisco Aironet 2700 AP, including 802.11ac.

AP 2700 vs. AP 3700 Module Support Comparison

Notes that AP 2700 lacks module support compared to AP 3700.

Cisco Aironet AP Lineup Overview

Cisco Aironet Indoor Access Point Series

Provides an overview of Cisco Aironet indoor AP series, including AP 2700.

Identifying Cisco Access Point Models

Shows physical identification of AP 2700, 2600, 3600, and 3700 models.

Supported Cisco Access Point Modes

Lists standard operating modes supported by Cisco Access Points.

AP 2700 Supported Operational Modes

Enhanced Local Mode and wIPS Support on AP 2700

Highlights Enhanced Local Mode and wIPS support on AP 2700.

Auxiliary Ethernet Port (AUX) Functionality

Details the AUX port's function, limitations, and PoE requirements.

AP 2700 Port Configuration and Powering

AP 2700 Port Layout (Console, AUX, PoE)

Shows the AP 2700 ports: CONSOLE, AUX, and PoE.

AP 2700 Power Requirements and Status

Details power requirements for AP 2700 and AUX port status indicators.

AP Mounting Options

Cisco Mounting Bracket Options

Lists available Cisco mounting brackets: Bracket-1, Bracket-2, Flush Mount.

AP 2700e Model Dimensions and Supported Antennas

AP 2700e Model Physical Dimensions

Shows physical dimensions of AP 2700e models.

Supported Antennas for AP 2700

Lists supported antennas and their gains for the AP 2700.

AP 2700i Antenna Patterns @ 5 GHz

AP 2700i 5 GHz Radiation Patterns

Displays Azimuth and Elevation patterns for AP 2700i at 5 GHz.

AP 2700 Antenna Patterns @ 2.4 GHz

AP 2700 2.4 GHz Radiation Patterns

Displays Azimuth and Elevation patterns for AP 2700 at 2.4 GHz.

Cisco Aironet Heat Maps and Q&A

AP Heat Maps Comparison (2700 vs 3700)

Shows heat maps comparing AP 2700, 3700, 2600, and 1600.

AP Selection for Warehouses and Manufacturing

Recommends AP models for manufacturing and warehouse environments.

Power Injector Comparison (AIR-PWR-INJ5 vs. AIR-PWR-INJ4)

Compares Cisco power injectors AIR-PWR-INJ5 and AIR-PWR-INJ4.

Miscellaneous Q&A on APs and 802.11ac

Industrial Interference Sources and Power Draw

Lists interference sources and AP 3600 module power draw.

802.11ac Requirements and Radio Operation

Details 802.11ac requirements and AP 3600 radio operation with modules.

5 GHz Radio Channel Management

Discusses how 5 GHz radios work together on the same channels.

Useful URL Links and Resources

Cisco Antenna Resources

Provides links to Cisco antenna datasheets and reference guides.

Understanding Antenna Patterns

Provides a guide to understanding antenna patterns.

AP and Controller Datasheets

Provides links to datasheets for APs and Controllers.

Additional Cisco Technical Resources

WLAN Design and Deployment Guides

Links to guides for WLAN design, deployment, and high-density environments.

802.11ac Technology and Use Cases

Links to resources on 802.11ac technology, use cases, and modules.

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