N Type APs

vining

Is anyone deploying N type APs yet and if so what mode do you use? B/G/N mix, B/G mix only, N only.. etc..

If using B/G/N mix or N only how are you deploying multiples? Channels? Are you using WLAN controllers for installs using more than 2 APs when there's no wi-fi IP PBX installed that would require using a WLAN controller. In other words are you using a WLAN controller to manage the spectrum when using more than 2 APs even if you don't need it for IP cordless phone handoffs between APs.

ericmedley

N uses the entire 2.4GHZ (US) and can cause spotty connections on the G/B which divides the bandwidth into 11 sub-channels. ( you technically can't call them channels in that they are too close together.).

However, I've gotten them to play a little better if you use more than one AP and place them a little more judiciously. Also, only run the B\G APs on channels 1 and 11.

All this to say, however, that if you can go with a nice managed Rukus system, it does a great job of making a reliable wireless network. That's my real recommendation.

vining

My understanding of N is that it uses 40 mhz channels whereas B/G used 22mhz, now 20 mhz channels so in an unmanaged install your only safe with 2 N WAPs vs the 3 WAPs if BG on 1,6 & 11. Assuming you don't have a project large enough to possibly repeat channels.

I know there are dual band N which also uses type A and i thought there are some Ns that use multiple radios in which case if the radios are all in the 2.4 spectrum then 1 N could cover the entire spectrum and make multiple N APs unwise. My current thinking is that 2 N APs are ok but I have no first hand experience with N and i don't know if they actually make N APs with multiple radios in the 2.4. I'm pretty sure a single radio has only 40 MHz bandwidth so a single AP with a single 2.4 radio wouldn't cover the entire spectrum but 2 wouldn't leave enough room for a 3rd.

ericmedley

In my home I run two APs. The N is limited to 5Ghz only. The other does B and G.