Installation Guidelines - Cisco 4G-ANTM-OM-CM Manual

Cisco Aironet 2.4-GHz/5-GHz 8-dBi Directional Antenna (AIR-ANT2588P3M-N)

Installation Guidelines

6. If the assembly starts to drop, get away from it and let it fall. Remember, the antenna, mast, cable, and metal guy
wires are all excellent conductors of electrical current. Even the slightest touch of any of these parts to a power line
completes an electrical path through the antenna and the installer: You!
7. If any part of the antenna system should come in contact with a power line, do not touch it or try to remove it
yourself. Call your local power company. They will remove it safely.
8. If an accident occurs with the power lines, call for qualified emergency help immediately.
Installation Guidelines
Because the antennas transmit and receive radio signals, they are susceptible to RF obstructions and common sources
of interference that can reduce throughput and range of the device to which they are connected. Follow these guidelines
to ensure the best possible performance:

Mount the antenna as high as possible to take advantage of its propagation characteristics.

Keep the antenna away from metal obstructions such as heating and air-conditioning ducts, large ceiling trusses,
building superstructures, and major power cabling runs. If necessary, use a rigid conduit to lower the antenna away
from these obstructions.

The density of the materials used in a building's construction determines the number of walls the signal must pass
through and still maintain adequate coverage. Consider the following before choosing the location in which to install
your antenna:
— Paper and vinyl walls have very little affect on signal penetration.
— Solid and pre-cast concrete walls limit signal penetration to one or two walls without degrading coverage.
— Concrete and wood block walls limit signal penetration to three or four walls.
— A signal can penetrate five or six walls constructed of drywall or wood.
— A thick metal wall causes signals to reflect, causing poor penetration.

Install the antenna away from 5 GHz cordless phones. These products can cause signal interference because they
operate in the same frequency range as the device your antenna is connected to.
Site Selection
Before attempting to install your antenna, determine where you can best place the antenna for safety and performance.
To determine a safe distance from wires, power lines, and trees:
1. Measure the height of your antenna.
2. Add this length to the length of your tower or mast and then double this total for the minimum recommended safe
distance.
Caution: If you are unable to maintain this safe distance, stop and get professional help.
Generally, the higher an antenna is above the ground, the better it performs. Good practice is to install your antenna about
5 to 10 ft (1.5 to 3 m) above the roof line and away from all power lines and obstructions. If possible, find a mounting
place directly above your wireless device so that the lead-in cable can be as short as possible.
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