Fi Win Inc WM68-1 User Manual

 

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For an infrastructure configuration (with an Access Point and several wireless 

clients), physical placement of the Access Point will be key as it determines the 

range of the wireless LAN network and it’s connection to the wired LAN network 

(if present). 

Wireless LAN networks have the best range in open areas or environments with 

few obstacles. For every wall, door, ceiling the signals have to travel through, the 

range is reduced. Thicker obstacles or metal environments reduce the range 

even further. When placing Access Points, try to decrease the number of 

obstacles in the area so that mobile wireless clients have the best access and 

range. Access Points (like radio towers on top of hills) have the best range when 

they are raised above obstacles such as furniture. When ever possible, mount 

your Access point high up a wall. This could also help your range if your Access 

Point is downstairs and you are try to provide WLAN coverage to a floor above 

you. 

Wireless signals also degrade if they pass through object at an angle. Again, 

direct line of contact and minimal obstacles will increase the range. Also, note 

that high RF noise objects such as antennas, microwaves, monitors can affect 

signal sensitivity and range. Positioning wireless equipment a few feet away from 

them will minimize their effect. 

 

Here are a few ways to do this. 

• Check 

the 

System Tray bar (lower right hand corner of Windows desktop) and 

verify that the Wireless LAN Card is connected (no Red X through it) 

• 

Check to ensure that at least one green Signal Strength Indicator bar is 

colored or