Branch Office Interconnexion

[KleanX]

Hey!

I'm having concerns with connecting Branch Office to Main Office with Wireless Outdoor bridges. In fact, we have two computers located in the branch office (300ft) away from the main Office and these building are communicating with Coaxial Cable for now (It's unstable and need to be changed). I want to replace this technology and start up with "Wireless Products".

I was looking towards "Aironet" or "3Com", but want to know if I have to do external modifications to the building (Cables outside) or can I have the antenna placed inside but close to the building's Window ? Do I need an exactly Directionnal vue of the branch building ?

What would be the best solution for that type of environment ?

I've tried to be precise but you may need more information so don't hesitate on asking questions ...

Thanx



Mike

 

[4650]

Depending on what traffic you will have going across, you should consider the device that has QOS capabilities or not. For an example, if you will be using the bridge for data and voice (phone system) you will need QOS enabled device. CISCO is good way to go in that case. I am not sure if 3com’s bridge has this option. Do some research.
Other consideration will be if you would like to have your device outside or inside of the building and operating temperatures. Another thing, would you like to use all-in one system (antenna and bridge in one) or separate system? I have looked in to some bridges last fall and found that 3com has an all-in-one device that is POE compatible. The 3com part is 3CRWEASY96A.
For 100 yards, you should just get a patch antenna (which this 3com has built in) and just point them to each other. You should be ok with some obstructions but going through the big buildings and rocks is not really good idea. If you have a clear view, then consider reducing the transmit power to the level where you will still maintain full throughput.
Good luck, George

 

[bcastner]

A plain glass window with line of site is fine. A coated glass window (common in office buildings) could prove an issue.

 

[KleanX]

Hey!

As I have made further investigation, there is no way that I can have a clear view since the router is the back of one building and the other one is on the front facia. They won't see each other unless I have to install antennas on the top of both buildings. These solution cost around 4000.00 Can$ and are dedicated for 2 users ... kindda costly if I mind. Might as well install a 70$/month cable ISP and tunnel IPSEC/VPN to the main office.

4000$/80 = makes 4 years before we get return on investment.

Anyways .. I was suggest Cisco 1310 both ways ... 4000.00$ quotation.

Really desperate considering it's only 300ft away. I'll try out with 3Com.

Mike

 

[dhnl]

Run fiber. Permanent solution, very secure and much higher speed.