802.11a antenna questions

[jamesgef]

We have a 1200AP with both 802.11b and 802.11a antennas. Now, the documentation for the 802.11a antenna (flip-top antenna on AP) says it may be a omni-directional or patch antenna functions.

Does it perform both? If not, how do I switch from omni to patch in its function? Is it through selection of "throughput" or "range" that I may select if it will be an omni or patch?

Thanks!

James

[mvario]

When it is flipped against the 1200 housing the 2 integrated directional antennas are enabled. When it is flipped to a 90 degree or 180 degree position the 2 internal omnidirectional antennas are enabled. The switching is done physically, note the small recessed switch in the center edge of the antenna housing closest to the AP.

[pjsteines]

The "Flip-top" antenna really contains 4 antenna's. Two are used for omni-directions rated at 5dBi the other two are for patch ( Dircetional ) rated at 6dbi. FCC rules for UNNI-1 and UNII-2 radio's state the antenna must be attached.

To switch between the pair of antenna's is done mechanicaly. If you flip it so its parallel to the unit, it's a 6dBi patch, if you flip it out 90 degree's to unit it's a 5dBi Omni.

The "throughput" and "range" have to do with unicast and multicast traffic. These are like scripts that effect the custom data rate configuration. Setting each speed to Basic/Yes/No. If you set to Basic you allow uni and multi traffic. A setting of "Yes" allows only unicast traffic at the specified data rate. A "No" means no traffic can be sent. Caution do not set the 1 Mb/sec to "No" this is the speed management frames are sent, doing so will cause you to disconnect from the AP and not be able to reassociate to the AP.