Different Wi-Fi Access Points (APs) have been designed for various use cases, so it’s no surprise they also have different coverage patterns. In this blog, we’ll take a look at some of the more common Cisco APs and how their coverage varies.
The perfect access point doesn’t exist – the size, shape, mounting options and coverage patterns are all things we consider when we select an AP for a given scenario.
When we produce a Wi-Fi design, we go through a list to determine the best AP variant to use:
The image below compares the 5GHz coverage patterns of several APs:
Note how the APs’ patterns are different, so in designing your RF layout, this needs to be taken into account.
The CW9176i shows the most symmetric pattern, likely due to these being in the high-end range of AP models.
The image below now compares the 6GHz coverage of these APs:
As you can see in the image, not all APs support 6GHz.
Finally, here’s how these APs compare with 2.4GHz coverage:
The 2567 antenna gives the best, most symmetric coverage pattern, with the 9176i coming second.
A coverage pattern, or antenna pattern, shows how strongly an access point radiates in each direction. It tells you whether an AP spreads signal evenly around itself, pushes it down from the ceiling, or focuses it in one direction.
Each band uses different antenna elements and wavelengths, so the shape and strength of coverage changes between 2.4GHz, 5GHz and 6GHz. A design should be checked on the band your critical devices use.
Internal antenna APs suit standard ceilings in offices, schools and hospitals. External antenna models suit high ceilings, warehouses, outdoor areas and places where you need directional coverage down an aisle or across a space.
Model the site with the candidate APs in a predictive design, then test the chosen model onsite before cabling. That shows how its pattern behaves with your walls, ceiling height and devices.
The choice of Cisco AP you pick for a particular scenario is based on a range of factors.
In this blog we’ve provided a quick reference to see how the coverage from different APs (and antennas) varies.
The difference in coverage is notable even between different APs in the same family – the 9172i compared to the 9176i for example. The additional antennas in the higher tier AP really do make a difference in providing quality, ubiquitous coverage.
The key takeaway is that coverage patterns vary. So, if you’re swapping APs, it’s not always a 1:1 replacement – you’ll need to design your layout to suit the new model.
Our Wi-Fi survey and design team picks the right Cisco APs and antennas for each area, and the free AP Estimator gives you a first count. If that would be useful, get in touch with the IPTel team or email sales@iptel.com.au.