Wireless Bridge: an Overview

Author: hostarticles | Posted: 31.12.2011

A wireless bridge is a very useful device that lets two or more than two network users communicate through long distance, that too without wires. The wireless networks can be in the same room, house or building but are generally either neighboring buildings or with appropriate antennas and even line of sight buildings with the distance of 30 miles can be connected. The wireless bridges attach to the wired networks by means of Ethernet port and transfer that data to the access point or remote network bridge through 802.11a/b/g Wi-Fi protocol.

The simplest to configure is the point to point topology and it attaches two networks in different locations, usually in remote warehouse or building through single wireless bridge in every location. A multipoint topology without a wire joins various locations altogether allowing sharing similar network source. The bridge at the main hub is termed as Root Bridge or base station and all the data sent and received must pass through that base station at first. These multipoint Wireless Bridge networks are utilized in WISP (Wireless Internet Service Provider), distribution services, corporate campuses, public safety areas, schools and various others.

To achieve all this, it requires installing a tower or pole on the rooftop. It is always suggested to go for site survey. There are some things to keep in mind while choosing a wireless bridge. The distance determines the gain antenna needed and if an integrated antenna or exterior antenna will be enough. An indoor Wireless Bridge is less costly however one needs to purchase a small amount of LMR-400 wire to joint to the exterior antenna. This will add lead to a lot of signal loss and then one requires larger gain antenna to overcome this. An exterior bridge can be located right besides the antenna and hence reduces the quantity of wire needed to purchase and the heavy signal loss. The bridge chosen does not possess an integrated antenna a person will need to purchase one now. If for just a point to point networks it always suggested to put a directional panel, a grid or solid parabolic directed dish antennas.

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