First let me say, I am no expert, but will give you as much info as I can.
First, you have to determine if you can get a signal at your location. Perhaps you could get to the roof, or the highest point in the building and check. If you have an external antenna you can test with, that would be fine. If you can get a signal, how good is it? I believe netstumbler has a function, although must wireless cards have the ability to monitor signal strength, as well as the built in support on XP machines. If your signal is "excellent", or perhaps even "Very Good" you might want to consider using a repeater. I know D Link had a unit that could be used as a repeater. The problem with a repeater like that is that it will decrease your speed by at least 1/2, cause it handles both the transmit and receive. There are professional grade products that can do this for you as well, but they are more expensive then the previous ideas.
The other thing you might consider is to Double Nic a computer, and run something like windows Internet Connection Sharing. I am sure there is other software that one can use as well, just don't know any off the top of my head.
If you can't get a signal from the City, then you will need a DSL or Cable, or perhaps a better broadband connection then that. With so many units, you could have a serious bottleneck if everyone uses the connection at the same time. While that is unlikely, even 30 people using it at the same time could cause problems. I would then run several IP's, with several Access points setup on different channels. Then divide the complex in sections, and assign a channel to be used by several people. Put the AP in that division of the complex, using POE or some other method.
Hope that helps, although I am confident other people will chime in with some better info.
Michael
-----Original Message-----
From: leonid orlov <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
To: [email protected]
Sent: Mon, 28 Mar 2005 09:29:40 -0800 (PST)
Subject: [SOCALWUG] 64 unit Wi-Fi installation ..
Hi,
I am seeking a word of withdom, information or any
kind of help I can get on how one approach installing
Wi-FI in our complex.
I live in 64 townhouses complex. Our city provides
free wi-fi access, but we don't have direct line of
site to the antennae.
I am thinking on either to have rooftop antennae that
will pick city signal and distribute it throughout the
complex or to get a DSL line as a backhaul for all
homeowners.
How one approaches such project, what and how much
equipment is needed?
Any advice will be greatly appreciated.
Thanks in advance for your help.
Leonid
Hermosa Beach
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