Cisco 1200 User Manual

Cisco Aironet 1200 Series Access Point Hardware Installation Guide

December 2006

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Text Part Number: OL-8370-04

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The following inform ation is for FCC compliance of Class A devices:
to part 15 of the FCC rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference when the equipment is operated in a commercial
environment. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio-frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instruction manual, may cause
harmful interference to radio communications. Operation of this equipment in a residential area is likely to cause harmful interference, in which case users will be required
to correct the interference at their own expense.

The following information is for FCC compliance of Class B devices: The equipment described in this manual generates and may radi
installed in accordance with Cisco’s installation instructions, it may cause interference with radio and television reception. This equipment has been tested and found to
comply with the limits for a Class B digital device in accordance with the specifications in part 15 of the FCC rules. These specifications are designed to provide reasonable
protection against such interference in a residential installation. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation.

Modifying the equipment without Cisco’s written authorization may result in the equipment no longer complying with FCC requiremen
devices. In that event, your right to use the equipment may be limited by FCC regulations, and you may be required to correct any interference to radio or television
communications at your own expense.

You can determine whether your equipment is causing interference by turning it off. If the interference stops, it was probably caused by
peripheral devices. If the equipment causes interference to radio or television reception, try to correct the interference by using one or more of the following measures:

• Turn the television or radio antenna until the interference stops.

• Move the equipment to one side or the other of the television or radio.

• Move the equipment farther away from the television or radio.

• Plug the equipment into an outlet that is on a different circuit from the television or radio. (That is, make certain the equip
controlled by different circuit breakers or fuses.)

Modifications to this product not authorized by Cisco Systems, Inc. could void the FCC approval and negate your authority to oper

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IMITATION, THOSE OF MERCHANTABILITY, FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE AND NONINFRINGEMENT OR ARISING FROM A COURSE OF

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This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class A digital device, pursuant

ate radio-frequency energy. If it is not

ts for Class A or Class B digital

the Cisco equipment or one of its

ment and the television or radio are on circuits

ate the product.

eley (UCB) as part of UCB’s public

Any Internet Protocol (IP) addresses used in this document are not intended to be actual addresses. Any examples, command display ou
document are shown for illustrative purposes only. Any use of actual IP addresses in illustrative content is unintentional and coincidental.

Cisco Aironet 1200 Series Access Point Hardware Installation Guide

© 2006 Cisco Systems, Inc. All rights reserved.

tput, and figures included in the

Preface ix

Audience i-ix

Purpose i-ix

Organization i-ix

Conventions i-x

Related Publications i-xii

Locating the Product Serial Number i-xiii

CONTENTS

CHAPTER

1 Overview 1-1

Product Terminology 1-1
Autonomous Access Points 1-1
Lightweight Access Points 1-2

Guidelines for Using 1200 Series Lightweight Access Points 1-3

Hardware Features 1-3

Network Examples with Autonomous Access Points 1-7

Root Access Point on a Wired LAN 1-8
Repeater Unit that Extends Wireless Range 1-9
Central Unit in an All-Wireless Network 1-10
Bridge Network with Wireless Clients 1-10
Point-to-Point Bridge Configuration 1-11
Workgroup Bridge Network 1-11

Dual-Radio Operation 1-4
LEDs 1-5
Ethernet Port 1-5
Console Port 1-6
Power Sources 1-6
UL 2043 Certification 1-6
Anti-Theft Features 1-6

CHAPTER

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Network Example with Lightweight Access Points 1-12

2 Installing the Access Point 2-1

Safety Information 2-2

FCC Safety Compliance Statement 2-2
General Safety Guidelines 2-2

Cisco Aironet 1200 Series Access Point Hardware Installation Guide

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Contents

Warnings 2-2

Unpacking the Access Point 2-3

Package Contents 2-3

Basic Installation Guidelines 2-4

Controller Discovery Process for Lightweight Access Points 2-4

Before Beginning the Installation 2-5

Deploying the Access Points on the Wireless Network 2-7

Connecting the 2.4-GHz Antennas 2-8

Connecting the 5-GHz External Antennas 2-8

Connecting the Ethernet and Power Cables 2-9

Connecting to an Ethernet Network with an Inline Power Source 2-10
Connecting to an Ethernet Network with Local Power 2-10

CHAPTER

CHAPTER

3 Mounting Instructions 3-1

Overview 3-2

Mounting on a Horizontal or Vertical Surface 3-3

Mounting Below a Suspended Ceiling 3-4

Mounting Above a Suspended Ceiling 3-5

Attaching the Access Point to the Mounting Bracket 3-8

Securing the Access Point to the Mounting Bracket 3-8

4 Upgrading the 2.4-GHz Radio 4-1

Upgrade Overview 4-2

Unpacking the Radio 4-2

Opening the Access Cover 4-3

Removing a Blank Spacer Card 4-4

Removing a 2.4-GHz Radio 4-5

Installing a 2.4-GHz Radio 4-7

Attaching the Compliance Labels 4-9

Placing the Labels 4-10

CHAPTER

iv

5 Upgrading the 5-GHz Radio Module 5-1

Upgrade Overview 5-2

Unpacking the Radio Module 5-2

Removing the 5-GHz Radio Access Cover 5-2

Removing a 5-GHz Radio Module 5-3

Cisco Aironet 1200 Series Access Point Hardware Installation Guide

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Installing a 5-GHz Radio Module 5-5

Attaching the Compliance Label 5-7

Contents

CHAPTER

6 Troubleshooting Autonomous Access Points 6-1

Checking the Top Panel LEDs 6-2

Checking Basic Settings 6-4

Default IP Address Behavior 6-4
Default SSID and Radio Behavior 6-4
Enabling the Radio Interfaces 6-4
SSID 6-5
WEP Keys 6-5
Security Settings 6-5

Running the Carrier Busy Test 6-5

Running the Ping or Link Test 6-6

Resetting to the Default Configuration 6-7

Using the MODE Button 6-7
Using the Web Browser Interface 6-8

Reloading the Access Point Image 6-8

Using the MODE button 6-9
Web Browser Interface 6-10

Browser HTTP Interface 6-10
Browser TFTP Interface 6-10

CHAPTER

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Obtaining the Access Point Image File 6-11

Obtaining the TFTP Server Software 6-12

Connecting to the Access Point Locally 6-13

7 Troubleshooting Lightweight Access Points 7-1

Guidelines for Using 1200 Series Lightweight Access Points 7-2

Using DHCP Option 43 7-2

Checking the Top Panel LEDs 7-3

Manually Configuring Controller Information Using the Access Point CLI 7-5

Configuring Controller Information 7-5
Clearing Manually Entered Controller Information 7-5
Manually Resetting the Access Point to Defaults 7-6

Returning the Access Point to Autonomous Mode 7-6

Using a Controller to Return the Access Point to Autonomous Mode 7-6
Using the MODE Button to Return the Access Point to Autonomous Mode 7-7
MODE Button Setting 7-7

Cisco Aironet 1200 Series Access Point Hardware Installation Guide

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Contents

Obtaining the Autonomous Access Point Image File 7-8

Obtaining the TFTP Server Software 7-9

Connecting to the Access Point Locally 7-9

APPENDIX

APPENDIX

A Translated Safety Warnings A-1

B Declarations of Conformity and Regulatory Information B-1

Manufacturers Federal Communication Commission Declaration of Conformity Statement B-2

VCCI Statement for Japan B-4

Department of Communications—Canada B-4

Canadian Compliance Statement B-4

European Community, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, and Liechtenstein B-5

Declaration of Conformity with Regard to the 1999/5/EC (R&TTE Directive) B-5

Declaration of Conformity for RF Exposure B-7

Guidelines for Operating Cisco Aironet Access Points in Japan B-8

Japanese Translation B-8
English Translation B-8

Administrative Rules for Cisco Aironet Access Points in Taiwan B-9

Access Points with IEEE 802.11a Radios B-9

Chinese Translation B-9
English Translation B-9

All Access Points B-10

Chinese Translation B-10
English Translation B-10

APPENDIX

APPENDIX

APPENDIX

vi

Operation of Cisco Aironet Access Points in Brazil B-11

Access Point Models B-11

Regulatory Information B-11
Portuguese Translation B-11
English Translation B-11

Declaration of Conformity Statements B-12

Declaration of Conformity Statements for European Union Countries B-12

C Access Point Specifications C-1

D Channels and Maximum Power Levels D-1

E Console Cable Pinouts E-1

Overview E-2

Cisco Aironet 1200 Series Access Point Hardware Installation Guide

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Console Port Signals and Pinouts E-2

Contents

APPENDIX

APPENDIX

G

LOSSARY

I

NDEX

F Priming Lightweight Access Points Prior to Deployment F-1

G Configuring DHCP Option 43 for Lightweight Access Points G-1

Overview G-2

Configuring Option 43 for 1000 Series Access Points G-2

Configuring Option 43 for 1100, 1130, 1200, 1240, and 1300 Series Lightweight Access Points G-3

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Cisco Aironet 1200 Series Access Point Hardware Installation Guide

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Contents

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Cisco Aironet 1200 Series Access Point Hardware Installation Guide

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Audience

Preface

This guide is for the networking professional who installs and manages the Cisco Aironet 1200 Series
Access Point. The 1200 series access point is available in autonomous and lightweight configurations.

To use this guide with autonomous access points, you should have experience working with Cisco IOS

tware and be familiar with the concepts and terminology of wireless local area networks.

sof

To use this guide with lightweight access points, you should have experience working with a Cisco

ireless LAN Controller and be familiar with the concepts and terminology of wireless local area

W
networks.

Purpose

This guide provides the information you need to install your autonomous or lightweight access point.

For detailed information about Cisco IOS commands used with autonomous access points, refer to the

Ci

information about the standard Cisco IOS Release 12.3 commands, refer to the Cisco IOS documentation
set available from the Cisco.com home page at Technical Support & Documentation. On the Technical
Support & Documentation home page, click Cisco IOS Software > Cisco IOS Software Releases 12.3
Mainline.

For information about Cisco Wireless LAN Controllers, refer to the Cisco documentation sets available
fr
Documentation home page, click Wireless and the documentation is listed under the “Wireless LAN
Controllers” section.

Organization

This guide is organized into these chapters:

Chapter 1, “Overview,” lists th

access point’s role in your network.

Chapter 2, “Installing the Access Point,” de

provides an installation summary, safety warnings, and general guidelines.

sco IOS Command Reference for Cisco Aironet Access Points and Bridges for this release. For

om the Cisco.com home page at Technical Support & Documentation. On the Technical Support &

e software and hardware features of the access point and describes the

scribes how to connect Ethernet and power cables and

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Cisco Aironet 1200 Series Access Point Hardware Installation Guide

ix

Conventions

Preface

Chapter 3, “Mounting Instructions,” describes how to mount the access point on a desktop, wall, or

ceiling.

Chapter 4, “Upgrading the 2.4-GHz Radio,” pr

ovides instructions for upgrading the access point

2.4-GHz radio.

Chapter 5, “Upgrading the 5-GHz Radio Module,” provi

des instructions for upgrading the access point

5-GHz radio.

Chapter 6, “Troubleshooting Autonomous Access Points,” provi

des troubleshooting procedures for

basic problems with the autonomous access point.

Chapter 7, “Troubleshooting Lightweight Access Points”

provides troubleshooting procedures for basic

problems with the lightweight access point.

Appendix A, “Translated Safety Warnings,”

provides translations of the safety warnings that appear in

this publication.

Appendix B, “Declarations of Conformity and Regulatory Information,” in

dicates how to access the

document that provides translations of the safety warnings that appear in this publication.

Appendix C, “Access Point Specifications,”

Appendix D, “Channels and Maximum Power Levels,” li

lists technical specifications for the access point.

ndicates how to access the document that lists

the access point radio channels and the maximum power levels supported by the world’s regulatory

ains.

dom

Appendix E, “Console Cable Pinouts,” i

dentifies the pinouts for the serial console cable that connects to

the access point’s serial console port.

Appendix F, “Priming Lightweight Access Points Prior to Deployment,”

describes the procedure to

prime access points with controller information.

Appendix G, “Configuring DHCP Option 43 for Lightweight Access Points,” de

configure DHCP Option 43 for lightweight access points.

Conventions

This publication uses these conventions to convey instructions and information:

Command descriptions use these conventions:

• Commands and keywords are in boldface text.

• Arguments for which you supply values are in italic.

• Square brackets ([ ]) mean optional elements.

• Braces ({ }) group required choices, and vertical bars ( | ) separate the alternative elements.

• Braces and vertical bars within square brackets ([{ | }]) mean a required choice within an optional

Interactive examples use these conventions:

• Terminal sessions and system displays are in screen font.

• Information you enter is in boldface screen font.

• Nonprinting characters, such as passwords or tabs, are in angle brackets (< >).

Notes, cautions, and timesavers use these conventions and symbols:

scribes the procedure to

element.

Cisco Aironet 1200 Series Access Point Hardware Installation Guide

x

OL-8370-04

Preface

Conventions

Tip Means the following will help you solve a problem. The tips information might not be troubleshooting

or even an action, but could be useful information.

Note Means reader take note. Notes contain helpful suggestions or references to materials not contained in

this manual.

Caution Means reader be careful. In this situation, you might do something that could result equipment damage

or loss of data.

Warning

Waarschuwing

Varoitus

Attention

Warnung

This warning symbol means danger. You are in a situation that could cause bodily injury. Before you
work on any equipment, be aware of the hazards involved with electrical circuitry and be familiar
with standard practices for preventing accidents. (To see translations of the warnings that appear
in this publication, refer to the appendix “Translated Safety Warnings.”)

Dit waarschuwingssymbool betekent gevaar. U verkeert in een situatie die lichamelijk letsel kan
veroorzaken. Voordat u aan enige aperture gaat werken, dient u zich bewust te zijn van de bij
elektrische schakelingen betrokken risico’s en dient u op de hoogte te zijn van standaard
maatregelen om ongelukken te voorkomen. (Voor vertalingen van de waarschuwingen die in deze
publicatie verschijnen, kunt u het aanhangsel “Translated Safety Warnings” (Vertalingen van
veiligheidsvoorschriften) raadplegen.)

Tämä varoitusmerkki merkitsee vaaraa. Olet tilanteessa, joka voi johtaa ruumiinvammaan. Ennen
kuin työskentelet minkään laitteiston parissa, ota selvää sähkökytkentöihin liittyvistä vaaroista ja
tavanomaisista onnettomuuksien ehkäisykeinoista. (Tässä julkaisussa esiintyvien varoitusten
käännökset löydät liitteestä "Translated Safety Warnings" (käännetyt turvallisuutta koskevat
varoitukset).)

Ce symbole d’avertissement indique un danger. Vous vous trouvez dans une situation pouvant
entraîner des blessures. Avant d’accéder à cet équipement, soyez conscient des dangers posés par
les circuits électriques et familiarisez-vous avec les procédures courantes de prévention des
accidents. Pour obtenir les traductions des mises en garde figurant dans cette publication, veuillez
consulter l’annexe intitulée « Translated Safety Warnings » (Tradu

ction des avis de sécurité).

Dieses Warnsymbol bedeutet Gefahr. Sie befinden sich in einer Situation, die zu einer
Körperverletzung führen könnte. Bevor Sie mit der Arbeit an irgendeinem Gerät beginnen, seien Sie
sich der mit elektrischen Stromkreisen verbundenen Gefahren und der Standardpraktiken zur
Vermeidung von Unfällen bewußt. (Übersetzungen der in dieser Veröffentlichung enthaltenen
Warnhinweise finden Sie im Anhang mit dem Titel “Translated Safety Warnings” (Übersetzung der
Warnhinweise).)

Avvertenza

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Questo simbolo di avvertenza indica un pericolo. Si è in una situazione che può causare infortuni.
Prima di lavorare su qualsiasi apparecchiatura, occorre conoscere i pericoli relativi ai circuiti
elettrici ed essere al corrente delle pratiche standard per la prevenzione di incidenti. La traduzione
delle avvertenze riportate in questa pubblicazione si trova nell’appendice, “Translated Safety
Warnings” (Traduzione delle avvertenze di sicurezza).

Cisco Aironet 1200 Series Access Point Hardware Installation Guide

xi

Related Publications

Preface

Advarsel

Aviso

¡Advertencia!

Varning!

Dette varselsymbolet betyr fare. Du befinner deg i en situasjon som kan føre til personskade. Før du
utfører arbeid på utstyr, må du være oppmerksom på de faremomentene som elektriske kretser
innebærer, samt gjøre deg kjent med vanlig praksis når det gjelder å unngå ulykker. (Hvis du vil se
oversettelser av de advarslene som finnes i denne publikasjonen, kan du se i vedlegget "Translated
Safety Warnings" [Oversatte sikkerhetsadvarsler].)

Este símbolo de aviso indica perigo. Encontra-se numa situação que lhe poderá causar danos
fisicos. Antes de começar a trabalhar com qualquer equipamento, familiarize-se com os perigos
relacionados com circuitos eléctricos, e com quaisquer práticas comuns que possam prevenir
possíveis acidentes. (Para ver as traduções dos avisos que constam desta publicação, consulte o
apêndice “Translated Safety Warnings” - “Traduções dos Avisos de Segurança”).

Este símbolo de aviso significa peligro. Existe riesgo para su integridad física. Antes de manipular
cualquier equipo, considerar los riesgos que entraña la corriente eléctrica y familiarizarse con los
procedimientos estándar de prevención de accidentes. (Para ver traducciones de las advertencias
que aparecen en esta publicación, consultar el apéndice titulado “Translated Safety Warnings.”)

Denna varningssymbol signalerar fara. Du befinner dig i en situation som kan leda till personskada.
Innan du utför arbete på någon utrustning måste du vara medveten om farorna med elkretsar och
känna till vanligt förfarande för att förebygga skador. (Se förklaringar av de varningar som
förekommer i denna publikation i appendix "Translated Safety Warnings" [Översatta
säkerhetsvarningar].)

Related Publications

These documents provide information about the 1200 series autonomous access point:

• Release Notes for Cisco Aironet Access Points

• Cisco IOS Command Reference for Cisco Aironet Access Points and Bridges

• Cisco IOS Software Configuration Guide for Cisco Aironet Access Points

These documents provide information about the1200 series lightweight access point and the controller:

• Release Notes for Cisco Wireless LAN Controllers and Lightweight Access Points

• Cisco Wireless LAN Controller Configuration Guide

Click this link to browse to the Cisco Wireless documentation home page:

http://www.cisco.com/en/US/products/hw/wireless/tsd_products_support_category_home.html

To browse to the 1200 series access point documentation, click Cis
“Wireless LAN Access.”

To browse to the Cisco Wireless LAN Controller documentation, click C

Controllers or Cisco 2000 Series Wireless LAN Controllers listed under “Wireless LAN Controllers.”

co Aironet 1200 Series listed under

isco 4400 Series Wireless LAN

xii

Cisco Aironet 1200 Series Access Point Hardware Installation Guide

OL-8370-04

Preface

103680

SN: AAANNNNXXXX

SN: AAANNNNXXXX

Locating the Product Serial Number

The access point serial number is located on the bottom of the cabinet (refer to Figure 1).

Figure 1 Location of Serial Number Label

The access point serial number label contains the following information:

• Model number, such as AIR-AP1232 or AIR-LAP1232

• Serial number, such as S/N: VDF0636XXXX (11 alphanumeric digits)

Locating the Product Serial Number

• MAC address, such as MAC: 00abc65094f3 (12 hexadecimal digits)

• Location of manufacture, such as Made in Singapore

You need your product serial number when requesting support from the Cisco Technical Assistance

nter.

Ce

Obtaining Documentation, Obtaining Support, and Security
Guidelines

For information on obtaining documentation, obtaining support, providing documentation feedback,
security guidelines, and also recommended aliases and general Cisco documents, see the monthly

’s New in Cisco Product Documentation,

What

documentation, at:

http://www.cisco.com/en/US/docs/general/whatsnew/whatsnew.html

which also lists all new and revised Cisco technical

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Cisco Aironet 1200 Series Access Point Hardware Installation Guide

xiii

Locating the Product Serial Number

Preface

xiv

Cisco Aironet 1200 Series Access Point Hardware Installation Guide

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Overview

The Cisco Aironet Cisco Aironet 1200 Series Access Point is available in autonomous and lightweight
configurations. The autonomous access points can support standalone network configurations with all
configuration settings maintained within the access points. The lightweight access points operate in
conjunction with a Cisco wireless LAN controller with all configuration information maintained within
the controller.

Product Terminology

The following terms refer to the autonomous and lightweight products:

• The term access point describes both autonomous and lightweight products.

• The term autonomous access point describes only the autonomous product.

• The term lightweight access point describs only the lightweight product.

• The term access point describes a product operating as an access point.

• The term bridge describes a product operating as a bridge.

CHA PTER

1

Autonomous Access Points

Cisco Aironet 1200 Series Access Points (models: AIR-AP1200, AIR-AP1210, AIR-AP1220B,
AIR-AP1230B, AIR-AP1220A, AIR-AP-1230A, AIR-AP1231G, and AIR-AP1232AG) provide a
secure, affordable, and easy-to-use wireless LAN solution that combines mobility and flexibility with
the enterprise-class features required by networking professionals. With a management system based on
Cisco IOS software, the 1200 series access point is a Wi-Fi certified, wireless LAN transceiver.

The 1200 series access point can contain two radios: a 2.4-GHz radio (IEEE 802.11b or IEEE 802.11g)

n an internal mini-PCI slot and a 5-GHz radio module (IEEE 802.11a) in an external, modified cardbus

i
slot. The access point supports one radio of each type, but it does not support two 2.4-GHz or two 5-GHz
radios. You can configure the radios separately, using different settings on each radio.

The access point serves as the connection point between wireless and wired networks or as the center

nt of a stand-alone wireless network. In large installations, wireless users within radio range of an

poi
access point can roam throughout a facility while maintaining seamless, uninterrupted access to the
network.

You can configure and monitor the access point using the command-line interface (CLI), the

owser-based management system, or Simple Network Management Protocol (SNMP).

br

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Cisco Aironet 1200 Series Access Point Hardware Installation Guide

1-1

Lightweight Access Points

The Cisco Aironet 1200 Series Access Points (modes: AIR-LAP1231G and AIR-LAP1232AG) combine
mobility and flexibility with the enterprise-class features required by networking professionals. These
access points are part of the Cisco Integrated Wireless Network Solution and require no manual
configuration before they are mounted. The access point is automatically configured by a Cisco wireless
LAN controller (hereafter called a controller) using the Lightweight Access Point Protocol (LWAPP).

The access point contains two integrated radios: a 2.4-GHz radio (IEEE 802.11g) and a 5-GHz radio

EEE 802.11a). Using a controller, you can configure the radios separately with different settings on

(I
each.

Note The 1200 series lightweight does not support the 802.11b radio or the 802.11a RM20A radio module.

In the Cisco Centralized Wireless LAN architecture, access points operate in the lightweight mode (as
opp

osed to autonomous mode). The access points associate to a controller. The controller manages the
configuration, firmware, and control transactions such as 802.1x authentication. In addition, all wireless
traffic is tunneled through the controller.

LWAPP is an Internet Engineering Task Force (IETF) draft protocol that defines the control messaging

r setup and path authentication and run-time operations. LWAPP also defines the tunneling mechanism

fo
for data traffic.

In an LWAPP environment, a lightweight access point discovers a controller by using LWAPP discovery
m

echanisms and then sends it an LWAPP join request. The controller sends the access point an LWAPP
join response allowing the access point to join the controller. When the access point is joined, the access
point attempts to download new operating system software if the software versions on the access point
and controller do not match. After an access point joins a controller, you can reassign it to any controller
on your network.

LWAPP secures the control communication between the access point and controller by means of a secure

ey distribution, utilizing X.509 certificates on both the access point and controller.

k

This chapter provides information on the following topics:

• Guidelines for Using 1200 Series Lightweight Access Points, page 1-3

Chapter 1 Overview

1-2

• Hardware Features, page 1-3

• Network Examples with Autonomous Access Points, page 1-7

Cisco Aironet 1200 Series Access Point Hardware Installation Guide

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Chapter 1 Overview

Guidelines for Using 1200 Series Lightweight Access Points

Guidelines for Using 1200 Series Lightweight Access Points

You should keep these guidelines in mind when you use a 1200 series lightweight access point:

• The access points can only communicate with Cisco 2006 series wireless LAN controllers or 4400

series controllers. Cisco 4100 series, Airespace 4012 series, and Airespace 4024 series controllers
are not supported because they lack the memory required to support access points running Cisco IOS
software.

• The access points do not support Wireless Domain Services (WDS) and cannot communicate with

WDS devices. However, the controller provides functionality equivalent to WDS when the access
point associates to it.

• The access points support eight BSSIDs per radio and a total of eight wireless LANs per access

point. When a lightweight access point associates to a controller, only wireless LANs with IDs 1
through 8 are pushed to the access point.

• The access points do not support Layer 2 LWAPP. They must get an IP address and discover the

controller using DHCP, DNS, or IP subnet broadcast.

• The access point console port is enabled for monitoring and debug purposes (all configuration

commands are disabled when connected to a controller).

Hardware Features

This section describes access point features. Refer to Appendix C, “Access Point Specifications,” for a
list of access point specifications.

Key hardware features of the 1200 series access point include:

• Dual-Radio Operation, page 1-4

• LEDs, page 1-5

• Ethernet Port, page 1-5

• Console Port, page 1-6

• Power Sources, page 1-6

• UL 2043 Certification, page 1-6

• Anti-Theft Features, page 1-6

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Hardware Features

Dual-Radio Operation

The access point can be initially configured at the factory for single- or dual-radio operation. You can
also upgrade an access point configured for single-radio operation to support dual-radio operation using
a 5-GHz radio module or a 2.4-GHz mini-PCI radio card. The access point supports one radio of each
type, but it does not support two 2.4-GHz or two 5-GHz radios.

The 1200 series access point supports these radios:

• 2.4-GHz IEEE 802.11b mini-PCI radio card: MP20B, hereafter called 802.11b radio.

• 2.4-GHz 802.11g mini-PCI radio cards: MP21G or MP31G, hereafter called the 802.11g radio.

• 5-GHz 802.11a radio modules:

Chapter 1 Overview

Note The lightweight access points do not support the MP20B 2.4-GHz IEEE 802.11b radio.

Note The autonomous access points require Cisco IOS Release 12.2(13)JA or later

–

AIR-RM20A-x-K9—802.11a radio module with integrated antenna, hereafter called the

RM20A radio module.

Note The lightweight access points do not support the RM20A 5-GHz 802.11a radio module.

–

AIR-RM21A-x-K9—802.11a radio module with integrated antenna, hereafter called the
RM21A radio module.

Note The autonomous access points require Cisco IOS Release 12.3(2)JA or later.

–

AIR-RM22A-x-K9—802.11a radio module with external RP-TNC antenna connectors,
hereafter called the RM22A radio module.

Note The autonomous access points require Cisco IOS Release 12.3(2)JA or later.

Note Cisco Aironet CB20A client radios can sometimes fail to associate to the RM21A or RM22A radio

modules because the CB20A client radio does not support all the channels supported by the radio
modules. The default channel setting for the RM21A or RM22A radio module, least congested, often
results in the access point settling on one of these frequencies that the CB20A client radio does not
support: channel 149 (5745 GHz), channel 153 (5765 GHz), channel 157 (5785 GHz), and channel 161
(5805 GHz). To avoid this problem, set the channel on the RM21A or RM22A radio module to one of
the channels supported by the CB20A client radio. For additional information, refer to the Cisco IOS

Software Configuration Guide for Cisco Aironet Access Points or the Cisco IOS Software Configuration
Guide for Cisco Aironet Access Points.

1-4

The 2.4-GHz mini-PCI radio card connects to an internal mini-PCI slot. The 5-GHz radio module
connects to the access point’s modified card bus connector.

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Chapter 1 Overview

Radio

Status

Ethernet

86704

LEDs

Hardware Features

All 5-GHz radio modules incorporate an Unlicensed National Information Infrastructure (UNII) radio
transceiver operating in the UNII 5-GHz frequency bands. The RM21A radio modules contains dual
integrated omnidirectional antennas and directional antennas for diversity operation. For autonomous
access points, the 802.11g radio is called Radio0 and the 802.11a radio is called Radio1.

The three LEDs on the top of the access point report Ethernet activity, association status, and radio
activity.

• The Ethernet LED signals Ethernet traffic on the wired LAN, or Ethernet infrastructure. This LED

is normally green when an Ethernet cable is connected and blinks green when a packet is received
or transmitted over the Ethernet infrastructure. The LED is off when the Ethernet cable is not
connected.

• The status LED signals operational status. Green indicates that the access point is associated with

at least one wireless client. Blinking green indicates that the access point is operating normally but
is not associated with any wireless devices.

• The radio LED signals wireless traffic over the radio interface. The light is normally off, but it blinks

green whenever a packet is received or transmitted over the access point radio.

Figure 1-1 sh

ows the three status LEDs.

Ethernet Port

Figure 1-1 Access Point LEDs

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The auto-sensing Ethernet port accepts an RJ-45 connector, linking the access point to your 10BASE-T
or 100BASE-T Ethernet LAN. The access point can receive power through the Ethernet cable from a
power injector, switch, or power patch panel. The Ethernet MAC address is printed on the label on the
back of the access point.

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Hardware Features

Console Port

Power Sources

Chapter 1 Overview

The serial console port can be used to monitor the access point power-up sequences using a terminal
emulator program. Use an RJ-45 to DB-9 serial cable to connect your computer’s COM port to the access
point’s serial console port. (Refer to Appendix E, “Console Cable Pinouts,” for a description of the
console port pinouts.) Assign the following port settings to a terminal emulator to open the management

em pages: 9600 baud, 8 data bits, No parity, 1 stop bit and no flow control.

syst

The access point can receive power from an external power module or through inline power using the
Ethernet cable. Using inline power, you do not need to run a power cord to the access point.

The access point supports the following power sources:

• Power supply (input 100–240 VAC, 50–60 Hz, output 48 VDC, 0.2A minimum)

• Inline power from:

–

Cisco Aironet Power Injector (AIR-PWRINJ-FIB or AIR-PWRINJ3)

–

A switch capable of providing inline power, such as Cisco Catalyst 3500XL, 3550, 4500, or
6500 switches

UL 2043 Certification

The access point is encased in a durable metal case having adequate fire resistance and low
smoke-producing characteristics suitable for operation in a building's environmental air space, such as
above suspended ceilings, in accordance with Section 300-22(c) of the NEC, and with Sections 2-128,
12-010(3) and 12-100 of the Canadian Electrical Code, Part 1, C22.1.

Caution Only the fiber-optic power injector (AIR-PWRINJ-FIB) has been tested to UL 2043 for operation in a

building’s environmental air space; no other power injectors or power modules have been tested to UL 2043
and they should not be placed in a building’s environmental air space, such as above suspended ceilings.

Anti-Theft Features

There are two methods of securing the access point to help prevent theft:

• Security cable keyhole—You can use the security cable slot to secure the access point using a

–

An inline power patch panel, such as the Cisco Catalyst Inline Power Patch Panel

Note The Catalyst 3550-24 PWR switch supports power for access points configured with both

2.4-GHz and 5-GHz radios. Other switches and patch panels might not provide enough
power for both radios.

standard security cable, such as those used on laptop computers.

1-6

• Security hasp—When you mount the access point on a wall or ceiling using the mounting bracket

and the security hasp, you can lock the access point to the bracket with a padlock. Compatible
padlocks are Master Lock models 120T and 121T or equivalent.

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Chapter 1 Overview

Network Examples with Autonomous Access Points

Network Examples with Autonomous Access Points

This section describes the autonomous access point’s role in three common wireless network
configurations. The autonomous access point’s default configuration is as a root unit connected to a
wired LAN or as the central unit in an all-wireless network.

The autonomous 1200 series access point supports these operating wireless modes:

• Root access point—Connected to a wired LAN and supports wireless clients.

• Repeater access point—Not connected to a wired LAN, associates to a root access point, and

supports wireless clients

• Workgroup bridge—Not connected to a wired LAN, associates to a root access point or bridge, and

supports wired network devices.

• Root bridge—Connected to a wired LAN and supports non-root bridges and wireless clients.

• Non-root bridge—Not connected to a wired LAN, associates to a root bridge, supports wireless

clients, and supports wired clients.

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Network Examples with Autonomous Access Points

Access point

Access point

135445

Root Access Point on a Wired LAN

An autonomous access point connected directly to a wired LAN provides a connection point for wireless
users. If more than one autonomous access point is connected to the LAN, users can roam from one area
of a facility to another without losing their connection to the network. As users move out of range of one
access point, they automatically connect to the network (associate) through another access point. The
roaming process is seamless and transparent to the user. Figure 1-2 shows access points acting as root
units on a wired LAN.

Figure 1-2 Access Points as Root Units on a Wired LAN

Chapter 1 Overview

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Chapter 1 Overview

Access point Repeater

135444

Repeater Unit that Extends Wireless Range

An autonomous access point can be configured as a stand-alone repeater to extend the range of your
infrastructure or to overcome an obstacle that blocks radio communication. The repeater forwards traffic
between wireless users and the wired LAN by sending packets to either another repeater or to an access
point connected to the wired LAN. The data is sent through the route that provides the best performance
for the client. Figure 1-3 shows an autonomous access point acting as a repeater. Consult the Ci
Software Configuration Guide for Cisco Aironet Access Points for
point as a repeater.

Note Non-Cisco client devices might have difficulty communicating with repeater access points.

Figure 1-3 Access Point as Repeater

Network Examples with Autonomous Access Points

sco IOS

instructions on setting up an access

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Network Examples with Autonomous Access Points

Access point

135443

Root bridge Non-root bridge

135446

Central Unit in an All-Wireless Network

In an all-wireless network, an autonomous access point acts as a stand-alone root unit. The autonomous
access point is not attached to a wired LAN; it functions as a hub linking all stations together. The access
point serves as the focal point for communications, increasing the communication range of wireless
users. Figure 1-4 shows an autonomous access point in an all-wireless network.

Figure 1-4 Access Point as Central Unit in All-Wireless Network

Chapter 1 Overview

Bridge Network with Wireless Clients

The access point supports root bridge and non-root bridge roles used to interconnect a remote LAN to
the main LAN (see Figure 1-5). The bridge units can also support wireless clients.

Figure 1-5 Root Bridge and Non-root Bridge with Clients

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Chapter 1 Overview

117029

Root bridge Non-root bridge

Access point

Workgroup bridge

135448

Bridge Workgroup

bridge

135499

Point-to-Point Bridge Configuration

In a point-to-point bridge configuration, two bridges interconnect two LAN networks using a wireless
communication link (see Figure 1-6). The bridge connected to the main LAN network is classified as a
root bridge and the other bridge is classified as a non-root bridge.

Figure 1-6 Point-to-Point Bridge Configuration

Workgroup Bridge Network

The access point supports a workgroup bridge role to interconnect remote Ethernet workstations to the
main LAN. The workgroup bridge can communicate with an access point (see Figure 1-7) or with a
bridge (see Figure 1-8).

Network Examples with Autonomous Access Points

Figure 1-7 Workgroup Bridge Communicating with an Access Point

Figure 1-8 Workgroup Bridge Communicating with a Bridge

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Network Example with Lightweight Access Points

158085

LWAPP

LWAPP

Network Example with Lightweight Access Points

The lightweight access points support Layer 3 network operation. Lightweight access points and
controllers in Layer 3 configurations use IP addresses and UDP packets, which can be routed through
large networks. Layer 3 operation is scalable and recommended by Cisco.

This section illustrates a typical wireless network configuration containing lightweight access points and

Cisco Wireless LAN Controller (see Figure 1-9).

a

Figure 1-9 Typical Lightweight Access Point Network Configuration Example

Chapter 1 Overview

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Chapter 1 Overview

Network Example with Lightweight Access Points

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CHA PTER

2

Installing the Access Point

This chapter describes the setup of the access point and includes the following sections:

• Safety Information, page 2-2

• Warnings, page 2-2

• Unpacking the Access Point, page 2-3

• Basic Installation Guidelines, page 2-4

• Controller Discovery Process for Lightweight Access Points, page 2-4

• Before Beginning the Installation, page 2-5

• Deploying the Access Points on the Wireless Network, page 2-7

• Connecting the 2.4-GHz Antennas, page 2-8

• Connecting the 5-GHz External Antennas, page 2-8

• Connecting the Ethernet and Power Cables, page 2-9

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Chapter 2 Installing the Access Point

Safety Information

Follow the guidelines in this section to ensure proper operation and safe use of the access point.

FCC Safety Compliance Statement

The FCC with its action in ET Docket 96-8 has adopted a safety standard for human exposure to radio
frequency (RF) electromagnetic energy emitted by FCC certified equipment. When used with approved
Cisco Aironet antennas, Cisco Aironet products meet the uncontrolled environmental limits found in
OET-65 and ANSI C95.1, 1991. Proper installation of this radio according to the instructions found in
this manual will result in user exposure that is substantially below the FCC recommended limits.

General Safety Guidelines

• Do not touch or move antenna(s) while the unit is transmitting or receiving.

• Do not hold any component containing a radio so that the antenna is very close to or touching any

exposed parts of the body, especially the face or eyes, while transmitting.

• The use of wireless devices in hazardous locations is limited to the constraints posed by the local

codes, the national codes, and the safety directors of such environments.

Safety Information

Warnings

Warning

Warning

Warning

Translated versions of all safety warnings are available in the safety warning document that shipped with
your access point or on Cisco.com. To browse to the document on Cisco.com, refer to Appendix A,

“Translated Safety Warnings” for instructions.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
This warning symbol means danger. You are in a situation that could cause bodily injury. Before you
work on any equipment, be aware of the hazards involved with electrical circuitry and be familiar
with standard practices for preventing accidents. Use the statement number provided at the end of
each warning to locate its translation in the translated safety warnings that accompanied this device.

Statement 1071

SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS

Do not operate your wireless network device near unshielded blasting caps or in an explosive
environment unless the device has been modified to be especially qualified for such use.

Statement 245B

In order to comply with FCC radio frequency (RF) exposure limits, antennas should be located at a
minimum of 7.9 inches (20 cm) or more from the body of all persons.

Statement 332

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Unpacking the Access Point

Chapter 2 Installing the Access Point

Warning

Warning

Warning

Do not work on the system or connect or disconnect cables during periods of lightning activity.

Statement 1001

Read the installation instructions before you connect the system to its power source.

This product relies on the building’s installation for short-circuit (overcurrent) protection. Ensure that
the protective device is rated not greater than: 20A

Unpacking the Access Point

Follow these steps to unpack the access point:

Step 1 Open the shipping container and carefully remove the contents.

Step 2 Return all packing materials to the shipping container and save it.

Step 3 Ensure that all items listed in the “Package Contents” section are included in the shipment. Check each

item for damage. If any item is damaged or missing, notify your authorized Cisco sales representative.

Statement 1004

Statement 1005

Package Contents

Each access point package contains the following items:

• Cisco Aironet 1200 Series Access Point or Cisco Aironet 1200 Series Lightweight Access Point

• Cisco Aironet 1200 Series Power Module (Universal power supply)

• Product quick start guide

• Translated safety warnings document

• Cisco product registration and Cisco documentation feedback cards

The optional 2.4-GHz radio upgrade kit is shipped with the following items:

• 2.4-GHz radio card (802.11g)

• Installation guide

• A product registration card

• A T-10 tamper-resistant Torx L-wrench

• 2.4-GHz radio product compliance label

The optional 5-GHz radio upgrade kit is shipped with the following items:

• 5-GHz radio module (RM21A or RM22A)

• Installation guide

• A product registration card and a 5-GHz radio product compliance label

2-3

• A T-10 tamper-resistant Torx L-wrench

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