A rough calculation of the actual effect that changes to antennas, boosters and cables would make to your wireless network can be calculated quite easily. dBm and dBi, the units for power increase and power loss, can be added and subtracted from one another.

For example, the effect of adding a cable and an antenna:

Our 10 meter cable has about a 6 dB signal attenuation (a loss)

+

Our ANT24D18 antenna has 18 dBi gain (an improvement)

=

12 dB (the overall improvement)

How much improvement is that? Outdoors, in perfect conditions where there are no obstructions an extra 6 dB will double the transmission distance. 12 dB will double it, twice over (I.e., multiply it times 4). So, for example, a WG302 NETGEAR Access Point, which can reach 200 feet under optimal conditions, might now be able to reach 800 feet.

Inside of a building, there are many other factors that reduce wireless range.

• For hints about optimizing your existing antennas and wireless equipment, see Improving Wireless Range.
• For estimates about how combinations of NETGEAR equipment will improve range and throughput, contact NETGEAR's cost-effective ProSupport: This support for advanced features is available by phone, or with an on-site NETGEAR representative. For large orders contact NETGEAR sales.

Consulting With NETGEAR Sales For large installations such as major businesses, schools, campuses, and hotels, NETGEAR Sales has considerable experience. They can guide you quickly to solutions that have worked well for other large customers. If you are thinking of buying 20 or more access points and routers, feel free to contact NETGEAR Sales.

Doc: n101317.asp March 26, 2004