A point to Multipoint topology wirelessly connects multiple locations together allowing them to share the same network resources. The bridge at the main, central, location is called the root bridge or base station bridge and all data passing between the wireless bridge clients must pass through the root bridge first. These point-to-multipoint networks are used in wireless internet service providers (WISP), large corporate campuses, distribution facilities, school districts, public safety applications and many others...
What do I need to build a Point to Point Bridge Link?
Line of sight between the two
locations. You may need to install a
pole or tower on your roof top in
order to achieve this. A site survey
is recommended before installation.
Select a wireless bridge: Here are
some things to consider when
selecting a wireless bridge.
Distance: Distance will determine what gain antenna will be required and if you need an external antenna or if an integrated antenna will be sufficient.
Wireless protocol: Do you want to use a bridge base on 802.11 standards so that you have interoperability with other bridge manufacturers or would you like something with a protocol proprietary to a particular vendor? There are some added security benefits when using a proprietary over a standard protocol.
Frequency: Do you want to use a
licensed or unlicensed (2.4, 5-5.8
GHz) band?
Indoor or Outdoor: Indoor wireless
bridges are less expensive but you
will have to buy quite a bit of
LMR-400 cable to connect to the
outdoor antenna. This adds a great
deal of signal loss and in the end
you will need a higher gain antenna
to compensate. An outdoor bridge can
be placed right next to the antenna
and therefore cuts down on the
amount of cable you need to buy as
well as the amount of signal loss.
Select a wireless antenna: If the bridge you selected does not already have an integrated antenna you will need to choose one now. For point to point links we suggest a directional panel, grid or solid parabolic dish antennas.
Peripherals: You will need to select the appropriate lightning arrestors and RF antenna cables to get you connected and protected.
Double it: Now double the amount of hardware you selected so that you have the identical setup on both sides.
Installation:
Finally, select a professional
installer in your area to run the
appropriate cables, install any
required poles or towers, align the
antennas and configure the radios.
If you have any questions about this
let us know and we will assist you
in finding a quality installer. If
you want to try it out yourself go
for it but DON'T FORGET to bench
test the bridges before actually
installing them in the field.
