Teletronics EZMesh User Manual

User Guide
EZMesh
Multi-Radio Wireless Mesh Network Access Point
Teletronics Inc.
2 Choke Cherry Road Suite 100 Rockville, MD 20850 USA
User Guide - EZMesh Full Duplex Mesh Network Access Point Table of Contents
Table of Contents
Overview.................................................................................................................................................................2
Features...................................................................................................................................................................2
Reliable, Intelligent, High Performance Mesh Network.....................................................................................2
Fully Compatible with Existing Access Servers, Routers, and Gateways.........................................................3
Management and Security.....................................................................................................................................3
Power.......................................................................................................................................................................4
External Antennas..................................................................................................................................................4
Ethernet Port..........................................................................................................................................................4
Metal Enclosure .....................................................................................................................................................4
Outdoor Wireless Benefits.....................................................................................................................................4
Outdoor Wireless Challenges................................................................................................................................4
Solution Features and Benefits.............................................................................................................................5
Auto-recovery Auto-configuring mesh.................................................................................................................5
Safety Warnings.....................................................................................................................................................6
Installation Guidelines...........................................................................................................................................6
Site Survey..............................................................................................................................................................7
Package Contents...................................................................................................................................................8
Optional Equipment ..............................................................................................................................................8
Installation Components........................................................................................................................................8
Default Setting........................................................................................................................................................8
Installation Options..............................................................................................................................................10
Installing the MeshAP Access Point on a Pole...................................................................................................10
Installing the MeshAP Access Point on a Wall..................................................................................................12
MeshAP Infrastructure.......................................................................................................................................13
Mesh Manager Mode ..........................................................................................................................................13
Station Mode.......................................................................................................................................................13
Accessing the MeshAP Access Point (Login)..................................................................................................... 14
Direct Ethernet Connection ................................................................................................................................14
User Guide - EZMesh Full Duplex Mesh Network Access Point Table of Contents
Wireless LAN Access...........................................................................................................................................15
Access MeshAP unit via Mesh Manager’s Topology Page...............................................................................17
Mesh Manager Configuration.............................................................................................................................18
Setup Mesh Manager Unit...................................................................................................................................18
Http Port .............................................................................................................................................................. 20
Https Port ............................................................................................................................................................20
Weight.................................................................................................................................................................20
Mesh ID...............................................................................................................................................................21
Station Configuration..........................................................................................................................................22
Mesh Link Connection Mode..............................................................................................................................22
Setup Station in Auto Mode................................................................................................................................22
Mesh ID...............................................................................................................................................................24
Connect a MeshAP Station to other Stations/Mesh Managers under Auto Mode...............................................25
Managing the Topology of the Mesh Manager unit..........................................................................................26
Accessing the Topology Page.............................................................................................................................26
Topology Tree Expanded .................................................................................................................................... 26
Managing the MeshAP on the Topology Tree....................................................................................................27
Go back to the Mesh Manager unit..................................................................................................................... 27
Setup Mesh Wireless (Backhaul)........................................................................................................................29
Mesh Wireless Channel (Backhaul)....................................................................................................................30
Mesh Wireless Security (Backhaul)....................................................................................................................30
Mesh Wireless Security.......................................................................................................................................30
WPA2 Key.......................................................................................................................................................... 30
WPA Key............................................................................................................................................................ 30
Wireless Diagnostic..............................................................................................................................................31
Local Link Quality.............................................................................................................................................. 31
Mesh Link Quality ..............................................................................................................................................32
Topology Change Log.........................................................................................................................................33
Radio Self-Test....................................................................................................................................................34
Setup AP Wireless................................................................................................................................................35
Wireless Mode......................................................................................................................................................35
802.11b/g Mode..................................................................................................................................................35
Wireless Channel .................................................................................................................................................35
Changing and modifying the SSID.....................................................................................................................36
Wireless Security..................................................................................................................................................37
Disable Wireless Security (Default)....................................................................................................................37
Configure WEP Wireless Security......................................................................................................................37
Multiple SSID / VLAN Configuration................................................................................................................40
SSID / VLAN Page............................................................................................................................................. 40
Understand SSID “span” and “arrow..................................................................................................................40
User Guide - EZMesh Full Duplex Mesh Network Access Point Table of Contents
VLAN Tag.............................................................................................................................................................41
Access Mode.......................................................................................................................................................41
Trunk and Native VLAN Mode..........................................................................................................................41
Pure Mode...........................................................................................................................................................42
Firmware Upgrade...............................................................................................................................................44
Direct Upgrade – Mesh Station...........................................................................................................................44
Smart Firmware Upgrade...................................................................................................................................47
Specification..........................................................................................................................................................49
Power Consumption and PoE Injector Pin Assignments .................................................................................52
Warranty Policy...................................................................................................................................................53
RMA Policy..........................................................................................................................................................54
User Guide - EZMesh Full Duplex Mesh Network Access Point
IMPORTANT:
Information presented are based on information available and they are subject to change without notice.
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User Guide - EZMesh Full Duplex Mesh Network Access Point
Chapter 1

Overview

Teletronics ’s Triple RF mesh access point extends hotspot coverage using multi 5GHz wireless technology as a backhaul connection between mesh access points, and uses one
802.11b/g as a client connection.
The EZMesh is designed for maximum performance, scalability, and ease of use. The EZMesh is ideal for metro Wi-Fi solutions and offers full 802.11b/g client compatibility, along with mesh network protection wi t h user defined Mesh ID. The multiple wireless pa t h design for both backhaul and user traffic eliminates adjacent AP signal interference and provides zero performance degradation.

Features

Dual Radio Backhaul, Single Radio Client AP access
Backhaul Encryption: WEP, WPA, WPA2
Client AP Encryption: WEP, WPA2
Full VPN compatibility MAC address access control lists
Secure local and remote configuration via HTTPS
Web (HTML) Browser-based management tool supports both http and https
Network and client monitoring and statistical capture features
Full 802.11b/g client compatibility Layer 2 support

Reliable, Intelligent, High Performance Mesh Network

Patented Auto-discovery, auto-configure, and auto-healing POP (Predictable Optimum
Path) mesh routing algorithm
Multiple wireless path design for both backhaul and user traffic eliminates adjacent AP
signal interference and provides zero performance degradation
Best network throughput via layer 2 fast switching and bridging from AP to AP to
support real time video, voice, and data applications
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User Guide - EZMesh Full Duplex Mesh Network Access Point

Fully Compatible with Existing Access Servers, Routers, and Gateways

Transparent to layer 3 and up protocols, fully compatible with existing network
equipment
Directly connects to existing Routers, Gateways, or APs through 10/100 Ethernet

Management and Security

GPS Receiver(optional) Antenna provides physical location information of each
MeshAP, simplifies maintenance task and adds a new potential of location related services (outdoor version only)
Web Based HTML browser management interface
Supports WEP, WPA, MAC filtering, and AES encryption security across wireless mesh
network
Unique mesh network protection with user defined Mesh ID
Figure 1-1
EZMesh Full-Duplex Wireless Mesh Network Access Point
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User Guide - EZMesh Full Duplex Mesh Network Access Point

Power

Teletronics’s EZMesh outdoor access point receives power from the power injector. It uses an external 48-VDC power module and injects the DC voltage into the Ethernet cables to power the outdoor access point.

External Antennas

Teletronics’s EZMesh access point is designed for use with an external 2.4GHz antenna with an N-type male connector, and three external 5GHz antenna with an N-type male connector.

Ethernet Port

Teletronics’s EZMesh access point is able to link to your 100BASE-T Ethernet LAN through the optional power injector. The Ethernet cables are used to supply inline 48-VDC power from the power injector.

Metal Enclosure

Teletronics’s EZMesh access point consists of a weatherproof metal enclosure, providing an industrial grade temperature support of -40°F to 131°F (-40°C to 55°C).

Outdoor Wireless Benefits

Teletronics’s EZMesh wireless solutions allow users to deploy a scalable, secure and cost­effective outdoor wireless network. The MeshAP solutions deliver a true wireless broadband network over large geographic areas or other locations where wiring is too difficult or expensive to install.

Outdoor Wireless Challenges

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User Guide - EZMesh Full Duplex Mesh Network Access Point
Outdoor wireless deployments offer a number of challenges, with the main one being interference. Special equipment may be needed in order to overcome signal Listed below is a list of challenges that may affect an outdoor wireless network, compared
to a standard indoor WLAN:
Coverage
Environment
Equipment cost

Solution Features and Benefits

Auto-recovery Auto-configuring mesh

Teletronics ’s intelligent wireless routing is based on the Predictable Optimum Path (POP). The POP mesh routing algorithm examines the network and makes appropriate connections among MeshAP access points in real time and dynamically optimizes the best route to the connected network within the mesh. This helps ensure high network capacity and provides resiliency to interference. The POP automatically determines the best path back to the Mesh Manager by calculating the cost of each path in terms of signal strength and hops.
interference.
The POP continuously monitors changes in conditions and changes routes to reflect those changes.
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User Guide - EZMesh Full Duplex Mesh Network Access Point
Chapter 2

Safety Warnings

Warning: Do not place antennas near power circuits or power lines. Choose your location carefully and keep in mind that power lines look similar to phone lines so always use caution. Make sure not to come into contact with any such circuits while installing th e antenna because it may cause serious injury or death.
Warning: Only qualified personnel should be allowed to install and/or replace the equipment.
Warning: Make sure to read the installation instructions thoroughly before you install the unit(s).
Warning: To avoid the risk of being electrocuted, do not work on the unit(s) during a lightning storm.
Warning: Disposal of any unit(s) should be handled according to national laws and regulations.

Installation Guidelines

Follow the guidelines below to ensure the best possible performance:
1. Before you install your outdoor unit(s), choose a location where buildings and trees
will not block the signal.
2. Make sure to install your outdoor unit at a moderate height (approximately 40 feet), so
it can provide a clear signal to neighboring nodes.
3. Before you install your outdoor unit(s), choose a location where power circuits or
power lines are not near. Failing to do so could cause serious injury or death.
4. Plan your complete installation before you begin. It is best to have one person
chaperone the installation team to be able to spot any signs of trouble.
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User Guide - EZMesh Full Duplex Mesh Network Access Point
5. When installing the antenna, make sure to do the following:
Wear shoes with rubber soles, rubber gloves, long sleeved shirt or jacket.
Do not use a metal ladder
Do not work on a wet or windy day
6. If the assembly starts to drop, let if fall. All the attachments are excellent conductors
of electrical current, so even the slightest touch of any of the parts could electrocute you.
7. If any part of the unit comes in contact with a power line, do not touch it or remove it
yourself. Call your local power company and they will safely remove it.
8. Mounting units on a “vertical” mount metal objects may interfere the signal pattern of

Site Survey

the antenna. (Note: A horizontal mount metal object will not have this effect.)
9. Provide a clear signal to neighboring nodes.
10. When installing the unit(s), allow at least 20 feet of separation between each unit.
11. All the antennas need to be properly connected. The unit may experience permanent
hardware failure if the antennas are not properly connected and the unit is powered on.
12. EZMesh unit MUST be properly grounded, surge protected, and lighting protected to
avoid unit being damage with electrical stresses.
IMPORTANT: Any damages due to improper installation voids warranty.
Before any Wi-Fi mesh network is installed, a site survey is needed to determine how to maximize the coverage and network performance.
Data rates – Sensitivity and range are inversely proportional to data bit rates. The maximum radio range is achieved at the lowest workable data rate. A decrease in receiver sensitivity occurs as the radio data increases
Antenna type and placement – Do not place the antenna higher than necessary. The extra height could cause possible interference.
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User Guide - EZMesh Full Duplex Mesh Network Access Point
Physical environment – Open areas provide a better signal than closed areas.
Obstructions – Avoid placing the access points in a location where there are obstructions between the sending and receiving antennas such as trees, buildings or hills.

Package Contents

Each EZMesh contains the following items:
Outdoor Wireless Mesh Access Point
Quick Installation Guide
CD (User Guide, Quick Installation Guide)

Optional Equipment

Pole mounting kit
Street light adapter
PoE Injector
8dbi 5GHz Antenna
8dbi 2.4GHz Antenna

Installation Components

Review the figure below to familiarize yourself with the system components and connectors

Default Setting

User Name: admin Password: admin Wireless Network Name (SSID): mymesh No Mesh Link (SSID): arrow (unchangeable) IP Address: 192.168.1.8 Subnet Mask: 255.255.255.0 Mesh Link Connection: station
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User Guide - EZMesh Full Duplex Mesh Network Access Point
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User Guide - EZMesh Full Duplex Mesh Network Access Point
Chapter 3

Installation Options

There are two common installation options:
Installing the EZMesh access point on a pole
Installing the EZMesh access point on a wall

Installing the EZMesh Access Point on a Pole

When removing the access point from its box, make sure not to remove the foam blocks attached to the antenna connectors, until after your unit is installed. This will protect the antenna connectors during installation.
Figure 3-1
Pole Mounting Kit with EZMesh Full-Duplex Wireless Mesh Network Access Point
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User Guide - EZMesh Full Duplex Mesh Network Access Point
1. You can attach any outdoor EZMesh access point to any light pole
2. Mount the access point to the pole within 3ft. of the outdoor lighting control.
3. Connect a 10-AWG or larger ground wire to one of the EZMesh access point screw.
Make sure it is connected to a reliable earth ground, such as a grounded pole or a grounding rod.
Warning: This equipment must be externally grounded using a customer supplied ground wire before power is applied. Contact an electrician if you are uncertain that suitable grounding is available.
Notes: When powering the product with AC power the power plug should be installed where it can be conveniently accessed to de-energize power from the unit. Power should not be removed by disconnecting the AC power connector itself and where it is not subjected to water or outdoor elements.
Warning: Be careful when connecting the street light adapter to the pole. You may fall or electrocute yourself
4. Disconnect the lightning control from its fixture.
5. Make sure that the voltage available is between 100 and 240 VAC 50/60Hz.
6. Turn off power to the fixture at the designated circuits
7. Connect the adapter to the access point AC power connector.
8. Make sure the antennas are connected before the MeshAP is connected to electrical
power. Failure to do so may result in permanent hardware damage to the MeshAP unit.
9. Plug the street light adapter into the outdoor control fixture
10. Plug the lighting control into the street light adapter
Note: Use your hands to tighten the cable until the connector locks.
11. Use either a level or the attached circular level to align the MeshAPs external antennas.
Loosely assemble the rest of the pole mount kit around the pole
Note: Each pole clamp is equipped with the bolts of the appropriate length. If a different length is required, purchase 3/16-16 bolts of the correct length for your installation.
Note: Leave the screws somewhat loose so you can adjust the access point’s orientation.
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User Guide - EZMesh Full Duplex Mesh Network Access Point
12. Use a level to verify that the top edge of the pole clamp subassembly is horizontal, and
tighten its adjustment screws.

Installing the EZMesh Access Point on a Wall

Figure 3-3 EZMesh with wall mounting kit installed
1. Use the mounting plate as a template to mark four screw hole locations on your
mounting surface.
2. Mount the mounting plate on the back of the enclosure with two screws.
3. Mount the unit on the wall with 4 screws.
IMPORTANT: The EZMesh must be mounted level. A circular level is attached to assist with this.
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User Guide - EZMesh Full Duplex Mesh Network Access Point
Chapter 4

MeshAP Infrastructure

Teletronics Wireless Mesh Network consists of multiple wireless nodes (MeshAP Access Points). In a typical Teletronics Wireless Mesh Network, one or more MeshAP units will
be assigned as a Mesh Manager and other node will be assigned as Mesh Station. Any MeshAP access point can be assigned as a Mesh Manager Mode or Station Mode. (The default setting for a MeshAP Access Point is set as Station Mode.)

Mesh Manager Mode

The MeshAP unit configures as the Mesh Manager and has a direct-wired link to the Internet Gateway/Router/Access Server. It is used as the management unit and Internet Gateway for the MeshAP unit (Station) on the mesh network. (Any MeshAP access point can be configured as the Mesh Manger unit.)
Internet
Mesh Manager
Gateway

Station Mode

The MeshAP unit configured as the Station (node), and is the child unit of the Mesh Manager unit. Station units expand the wireless signal coverage for the mesh network. Stations could be added to the mesh network based on network signal quality needs.
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User Guide - EZMesh Full Duplex Mesh Network Access Point
Chapter 5

Accessing the MeshAP Access Point (Login)

Important Default Settings of the MeshAP
User Name: admin Password: admin Wireless Network Name (SSID): mymesh No Mesh Link [AP] (SSID): arrow (unchangeable)* No Mesh Link [Backhaul] (SSID): span (unchangeable)* IP Address: 192.168.1.8 Subnet Mask: 255.255.255.0 Mesh Link Connection: station Default Mesh Manager IP Address: 192.168.1.254
**This ONLY applies when MeshAP “Working Mode” is set to “Manager” mode
*The SSID, “arrow”, is reserved for a MeshAP Station that has not associated with(or formed an uplink) with another MeshAP.
**

Direct Ethernet Connection

WARNING---The antennas must be connected before the MeshAP is
powered on.
Step 1. Make sure the MeshAP unit is Powered On and Ready. Once it is powered on, it
takes about 35 seconds for the MeshAP unit to completely get booted and be ready for service and configuration.
Use wireless WLAN utility application on PC to scan for SSID: mymesh. Make
Note: The SSID for Client AP(802.11b/g), “arrow”, is reserved for a MeshAP Station that
The SSID for Backhaul Radio, “span”, is reserved for a MeshAP Station that has
This can prevent end users from accidentally connecting to APs that are not part of a
sure the SSID: mymesh MeshAP unit has the correct Mac address.
has not associated with(or formed an uplink) with any MeshAP network.
not associated with(or formed an uplink) with any MeshAP network.
mesh network. They will not get internet access when they connect to APs that are not part of a mesh network.
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