Reducing Redundant Alerts
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Because the new APs are complemented by the new 7.0 version of Cisco
Unified Wireless Network software, CleanAir functionality is integrated into
all Wireless LAN Controllers, the Wireless Control System and the 3300 series
Mobility Services Engine. With the
feature enabled across the network, interference detections can be correlated
across multiple access points, potentially reducing redundant alerts from the
same source of interference, while at the same time enhancing the accuracy of
interferer placement on the heat map.
Also, Cisco CleanAir allows the network to automatically reconfigure a
WiFi cell to avoid interference having too great of an impact on network
performance. If the WLC determines air quality is below standard for a particular
AP, the cell will automatically transition to a less crowded channel.
Cisco's Spectrum Expert Connect leverages the Spectrum
Expert software component for use with CleanAir. With Spectrum Expert Connect, administrators
can send the raw spectrum data from any CleanAir-enabled AP on the network to a
laptop running Spectrum Expert. In this
manner, RF experts can troubleshoot RF problems remotely, not needing to visit
the problematic site.
With its ties to the MSE and WLC, CleanAir also provides
location impact analysis that allows the RF administrator to see on a heat map
where an interference source is and what its aggregate impact may be to the
network. Administrators can also do
historical playback of the interferer, to get a sense of the interferers' effect
and placement over time.
While Cisco recommends the 500 series as the access point of
choice for new 802.11n deployments due to CleanAir enhancements, customers
that have already deployed 802.11n can utilize a limited number of 3500 series
APs (Cisco recommends one 3500 AP for every five APs) as an overlay network. However, customers going this route will not
have access to the self-healing capabilities inherent in an end-to-end CleanAir
network.
The 3500 series
includes three models, with prices ranging from $1,095 to $1,495. At the low end, the 3501i is a single-band
(2.4 GHz) access point with internal antenna. The $1,295 3502e offers dual-band 802.11n support and antenna
connectors, while the $1,495 3502e supports dual-band 802.11n with external antenna
connectors.
Cisco also announced an addition to the existing Aironet
1200 series of 802.11n access points that does not include CleanAir Technology.
The new Aironet 1260 supports dual-band 802.11n with external connectors, and
supports 802.3af Power over Ethernet. The
1260 is designed to easily retrofit to fit in the mounting brackets for
previously installed Aironet 1130 or 1240 access points.
All new access point models should start shipping in May and
include Cisco's new limited lifetime warranty.
