Cisco Meraki MR36H - User Manual

The Cisco Meraki MR36H is a dual-band 802.11ax cloud-managed access point with integrated Ethernet ports, designed for room wireless and wired connectivity. It is easy to install on a single gang box on the wall and is the first cloud-managed hospitality AP from Meraki. This guide provides instructions for installation, configuration, mounting, and limited troubleshooting.

Function Description

The MR36H serves as a cloud-managed access point, providing both wireless (802.11ax) and wired connectivity. It is particularly suited for hospitality environments due to its design for room-specific deployment and integrated Ethernet ports. The device can be powered via Power over Ethernet (PoE), either through a Meraki PoE Injector (sold separately) or a PoE switch. When powered by an 802.3af source, the MR36H operates in a low power mode, disabling 802.3af output on the LAN1 port but still providing full wireless capabilities.

The device features a system status LED and Ethernet status LEDs to convey its operational state. It supports "Run Dark" mode for enhanced security and reduced visibility, where the LEDs are not illuminated during normal operation, though an orange LED will briefly light up during boot before turning off.

Important Technical Specifications

Physical Specifications:

Interfaces:
- 1x Gigabit Ethernet (RJ45) with 802.3af Power over Ethernet output (Note: It can work with 802.3af with lower capabilities).
- 2x Gigabit Ethernet (RJ45) outputs.
Power:
- Power over Ethernet: 37 - 57V (802.3at compatible).
- Power consumption: 25W max (802.3at).
- Power over Ethernet injector sold separately.
Environment:
- Operating temperature: 32 °F to 104 °F (0 °C to 40 °C).
- Storage and Transportation Temperature: -4 °F to 158 °F (-20 °C to 70 °C).
- Humidity: 5 to 95% non-condensing.
Physical Security:
- Two security screw options (included).
- Concealed mount plate.

Ethernet Ports:

Uplink: A Gigabit Ethernet RJ45 port on the rear accepts 802.3at and 802.3af power for WAN connection.
LAN Access Ports: Three LAN ports (labeled 1 through 3). Port 1 can provide 802.3af power out to an end device if the MR36H is powered by an 802.3at source. These ports function as access ports on a switch and do not accept incoming traffic with a VLAN (802.1q) tag. Connecting another Meraki MR device to these LAN ports is not a supported topology.

LED Indicators (System Status):

Orange: AP is booting (permanent orange suggests a hardware issue).
Blinking Orange: AP cannot find uplink.
Rainbow: AP is initializing/scanning.
Blue: AP in Gateway mode with clients.
Blinking Blue: AP is upgrading.
Green: AP in Gateway mode with no clients.

Usage Features

Network Configuration:

Dashboard Integration: The MR36H is managed through the Meraki dashboard. Users can log in to http://dashboard.meraki.com, create a new account if necessary, and add APs using their Meraki order number or serial number and Enterprise license key. APs can be placed on a map/floor plan view within the dashboard.
Firmware Management: It is recommended to facilitate a firmware upgrade prior to mounting. The device will automatically check for upgrades upon connection to power and the internet. The LED will blink orange during an upgrade and turn solid green or blue once complete.
Firewall Settings: If a firewall is in place, it must allow outgoing connections on specific ports to particular IP addresses, details of which can be found in the Meraki Dashboard's help section.
IP Address Assignment: Gateway MR36Hs require routable IP addresses, which can be dynamically assigned via DHCP or statically assigned.
- Dynamic Assignment: DHCP servers should be configured to assign static IP addresses for each AP's MAC address (DHCP reservations).
- Static Assignment: Static IPs are configured via the AP's local web server (http://my.meraki.com or http://10.128.128.128). The default login is the serial number (e.g., Qxxx-xxxx-xxxx) with no password.

Installation:

Mounting Location: Choose a location with an unobstructed line of sight for optimal performance. Power over Ethernet supports a maximum cable length of 360 ft (100 m).
Mount Cradle: The MR36H mount cradle provides a flexible mounting solution. It can be attached to a 4" square cable junction box or European outlet boxes using appropriate mounting hardware.
Attaching the MR36H: Line up the top edge of the AP with the top tab of the mount cradle, guide it towards the top tab, and insert the top tabs into the MR36H's slot. Then, adjust the MR36H to guide its bottom slot into the cradle's bottom tab until it clicks into place. Secure it with one of the included screws in the cradle's bottom tab.
Security: The MR36H can be secured using a Torx security screw (included) to prevent accidental dislodging and theft.
Ejecting from Mount Plate: To release, first remove the security screw, then use the eject tool (included) to trigger the release mechanism.

Verification:

Device Functionality: Check the Power LED (solid green/blue indicates normal operation, flashing blue indicates firmware upgrade).
Network Coverage: Verify good signal strength throughout the coverage area using a client device.
Access Point Connectivity: Connect an 802.11 client device to the MR36H and verify proper connectivity via a web browser.

Maintenance Features

Troubleshooting:

Basic Steps:
- Reset the access point.
- Factory reset by holding the factory reset button for 5 seconds.
- Try switching cables or testing the cable on another device.
Check Radio Functionality (Repeater Mode): Disconnect the Ethernet cable from a gateway AP (while powered on) to switch it to repeater mode. If no other gateways are in range, it will broadcast an SSID appended with "-scanning." Connecting to this SSID and accessing my.meraki.com confirms radio functionality. Placing a repeater AP next to a working gateway AP should result in solid green or blue radio/signal strength LEDs, indicating it has detected the gateway and checked into Dashboard.
Check Ethernet Port Functionality:
- Disable the computer's wireless adapter.
- Ensure the computer's Ethernet adapter is set to obtain an IP address via DHCP.
- Connect the computer to the AP's Ethernet port. The Ethernet LED on the AP should turn solid green or blue.
- If the LED doesn't light up, try swapping the cable or using another port if available.
- If the Ethernet LED still doesn't light up, the port on the AP may be faulty.
Check Static IP Address Configuration: If the AP has a static IP, green signal LEDs will flash, and no IP will be received via DHCP. Disconnect the Ethernet cable, associate with the AP's SSID, and access my.meraki.com to verify the MAC address and configure static IP settings.

Safety and Warnings:

Always power off the unit before beginning installation.
Read installation instructions thoroughly.
Be aware of electrical circuitry hazards.
Use correct hardware for wall-mounting to prevent hazardous situations.
Product relies on building's installation for short-circuit protection; protective device rating should not exceed 15A, 125 Vac, or 10A, 240 Vac.
Only use provided power cables or standard PoE for regulatory compliance.

Warranty and Support:

Warranty: Indoor MR36H APs have a lifetime warranty, covering the MR device and Ethernet cables in the box. Warranty terms are subject to printed information on Meraki data sheets.
Hardware Replacement: To initiate a hardware replacement, access to original packaging (including serial number and order information) is required.
Support: For installation issues or additional help, contact Meraki Support by logging into dashboard.meraki.com and opening a case via the Get Help section.
FCC Compliance: MR36H devices comply with FCC rules (part 15, Class B digital device) to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in residential installations.
Environmental Considerations: Equipment is intended for industrial/commercial activities, not domestic use, and is subject to installation and maintenance by qualified specialists. Disposal at end-of-life must comply with state regulations. Do not dispose of with household waste. Store in original packaging, protected from atmospheric precipitation, within specified temperature and humidity ranges. Transport in original packaging in covered vehicles, adhering to storage temperature and humidity ranges.