ECV Wireless: Investigation of Options

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This is a scratchpad for notes about what problems need to be solved to get wireless service running at ECV, and a list of the possible solutions. As the project is completed, some of these possibilities will be either selected or ruled out. See progress reports at ECV Wireless: Implementation.

Contents

[edit] Backhaul Options

Obtained ADSL quote for installation on Johnson Ave. 1.5Mbs down/384Kbs up for $65.95/mo.

  • Verizon
    • neither FiOS nor DSL available according to web site
  • Comcast - TBD

Comcast Workplace TOS is extremely restrictive. Appears to prohibit this type of use. However, if the tenants were defined as a part of a business enterprise... See notes here too.

[edit] Summary

Speakeasy has no restrictions regarding sharing of service in their standard Terms of Services (TOS). Thus it is a viable option.

Business class options of Verizon or Comcast probably also offer adequate TOS (Bill Michaelson 11:30, 3 December 2007 (EST) update - Comcast apparently prohibitive). My office service (COSI) with Verizon FiOS seems to be suitable. It's hard to find and understand the current contract terms, but I scanned what I believe was the applicable text a few weeks ago, and found no prohibition on providing connectivity to a third party. Indeed, such a clause would be unreasonably restrictive for many applications. In any case, if the customer is ECV management, it would seem reasonable to provide services to ECV residents.

See handy matrix (could be out-of-date).

[edit] Wireless Options

Note: much of the following is (was) speculation that may no longer be applicable because the project has progressed beyond planning stages. The project history and current status can be found at ECV Wireless: Implementation.

Eggerts Crossing Village
Eggerts Crossing Village

The image at right depicts the service area for initial deployment. The scale at lower left indicates a 100 ft. and 50 m. intervals. The service volume is clearly too large for a single 802.11g WAP. We need to answer the following questions:

  • What locations may be used for backhaul termination points?
  • What are the common areas, and where may we install wire or fiber runs (inside and outside buildings) for power and comm should we choose to do so?
  • Where may we install WAPs or repeaters, and is power available?

[edit] Off-the-Shelf Mesh

Purchasing a prepackaged HW solution for extending range is attractive because it simplifies installation and maintenance. But it might not be adequate.

[edit] Homebrew

We could use a standard wireless access point, perhaps with a range extending omni (or other type) of antenna. Or we could establish repeaters of various types to gain appropriate coverage.

[edit] Wireless G

This is less expensive but reportedly has less range. Computers equipped for it are more common if we are seeking donated equipment.

[edit] Wireless N

Might be the best way to assure adequate coverage. Or possibly useful as a kind of second stage backhaul between the wired access points and wireless devices that serve the end users with G access.

Note: DD-WRT firmware (and cousins) for Linksys WRT54Gx routers support wireless distribution systems. This appears to be ideal for the intended coverage area. We might only need a good omni for the ADSL connected box.

[edit] Plan

We should study the site in consultation with site management.

At present, given available expertise, the way to progress would be incremental:

  1. Determine the best centralized location for backhaul termination.
  2. Based on backhaul location, determine WAP locations and connect them as a first level of distribution. Ideally, they are wired. If not feasible, use them as repeaters.
    1. D-Link DWL-G800AP
  3. Test signal levels around the complex and map dead areas.
  4. Install relay devices to fill in.

[edit] Possible Solutions

Should it prove impossible to position the routers indoors while providing adequate connectivity we can try any of the options below. For Buffalo product line, see here.

Update: Bill Michaelson 09:40, 4 August 2007 (EDT) We are using exterior (outdoor) antennae (where necessary) with Buffalo routers.

[edit] Put Them Outdoors

By acquiring weatherproof enclosures or switching to weatherproof units. These would be significantly more expensive.

[edit] Use Different Frequency and/or Modulation

If the Buffalo (or another vendor) product line offers WDS in a 802.11a/b/g/n combo, the use of such alternatives could overcome the indoor positioning problem. Use of the A/N spectrum and associated technology could strengthen the WDS. This would be more expensive than using the tested boxes. In any case, we must provide B/G service to the end users.

Note: The Buffalo 802.11N offering does not support WDS. See explanation. Same consideration for WDS on the WHR-HP-AG108.

[edit] Use Different Antennae

Use enhanced omni antenna for all units or use narrow(er) beam directional antennae for the primary WDS nodes. See here.

Here are approximate prices (compatible with Buffalo WHR-HP-G54):

[edit] More Product Refs

Note: Chumbo was not competitive. Most of the equipment was obtained through buy.com. This is just for reference:

[edit] Use Outdoor Antennae

Disadvantage is that of signal loss between unit and antenna. Radio and antenna are typically integral for this reason. But positioning on rooftops could make this a piece-o-cake.

[edit] More Wireless Refs

[edit] Wireless Bridges

Function as client rather than AP:

  • Linksys WET54G

[edit] Range Expanders

  • Linksys WRE54G

[edit] A+G WAPs

  • Linksys WRT55AG
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