Luxul Wireless Access Points FAQs


Q:	What is a WAP?
A:	In computer networking, a Wireless AP (WAP or AP) is a device that allows wireless communication devices (Laptops, Handheld Scanners, etc) to connect to a wireless network using a Wi-Fi signal. The WAP usually connects to a wired network that is connected to a broadband source (cable, DSL, T1, etc) and can relay data between the wireless devices and wired devices on the network.

Q:	What is the difference between a High Power Access Point and the Luxul Access Point?
A:	There are two main benefits to the Luxul Xen Wireless Access Point technology. First, the Luxul Access Point incorporated patented Digital Automatic Gain control signal boosting technology that allows for CLEAN signal amplification of a full 1000mW of power while maintaining high data rates. Contrast this with High Power Access Points which simply turn up the output power of the radio—essentially “squeezing” the data rate in order to put out the strongest signal possible and resulting in a dirty signal with lower data rates. Second, Luxul Xen Access Points incorporate a bi-directional signal boosting capability, which means not only is the outgoing signal enhanced, but the incoming signal from client devices as well. This helps ensure that client devices with weaker antenna technologies are able to communicate with the network at greater distances. High Power Access Points only focus on pushing the signal out as far as possible—appearing as if there is a strong signal, but lacking the receive sensitivity for a client device to actually connect and effectively use the network.

Q:	Do the Luxul Xen APs support 802.11n?
A:	Yes, all Luxul Xen APs are based on IEEE 802.11n standards and backwards compatible with 802.11b/g.

Q:	What settings do I need to configure in order to set up the Luxul Xen Access Point?
A:	Luxul Xen setup requires only 3 simple steps: 1. Input the SSID (network name) 2. Choose a Security Type 3. Change the Administrator Password

Q:	How much performance improvement can I expect when using a Luxul Xen AP?
A:	High Performance Luxul Xen APs increases the output power by 10X and enhance data throughput and coverage by as much as 400% over traditional Wi-Fi gear. Actual coverage and performance depends on environment, building construction and other factors.

Q:	What is the best placement of my Luxul Xen AP?
A:	This greatly depends on the environment in which you are installing the unit, as well as the particular AP you are using. It is important to remember that, with the exception of the XAP-1030, all Luxul Xen APs implement DIRECTIONAL antennas. This means that the AP or antenna(s) should be located at the edge of the desired coverage area and “aimed” towards coverage. This would typically be either in the corner or in the middle of a perimeter wall facing inwards or a top floor ceiling aiming downwards. For best results, identify the path of least resistance to the signal, avoiding any substantial metal or structural objects that might impact signal loss.

Q:	Can the Luxul Xen AP be placed in an attic without any climate control?
A:	Luxul Xen APs have been tested and rated for use in environments for which most APs are not recommended. All standard Luxul Xen APs are rated for use in operating environments of 14°F to 131°F (-10°C to 55°C) with Commercial Grade APs rated for use at up to up to 140°F (60°C).

Q:	Can a single Luxul Xen AP cover the inside and outside of a home?
A:	In many cases the answer to this question is yes. However, it is entirely dependent upon the environment and construction. Exterior walls, especially those that contain metal mesh or steel reinforcement can be difficult to penetrate with wireless signal. For best results, it is recommended to implement two separate APs, using an outdoor unit (XAP-1040) to ensure full coverage. Another option is to use a dual antenna unit (XAP-1032), placing one antenna inside the home and the other outside the home, provided the coverage area is not too large for the unit to handle.

Q:	I have a 5,000 square foot single level ranch home. Will a single antenna Luxul Xen AP provide full coverage?
A:	While a single antenna Luxul Xen AP is capable of easily covering 5,000 square feet of more, the answer to this question depends on placement and layout of the home. In a long, narrow home, the chances for full coverage are good if placed appropriately. However, maximum coverage may still be obtained by placing a dual antenna solution (XAP-1032) near the center of the home and “aiming” the two antennas in opposite directions. For L-shaped, multi-wing or multi-level properties, the use of a dual antenna AP is typically recommended to help better direct signal coverage to all areas of the home.

Q:	I have a Luxul Xen AP but I am not sure how to tell if I have it in the right spot. How can I test my signal to see if I need to move the AP?
A:	For Windows users, we recommend one of the following free software programs to help test signal strength: InSSIDer from metageek.net shows a multitude of useful data points. For more details on how to use InSSIDer, see the How to Video Using Inssider to test Wi-Fi Signal Strength. Ekahau HeatMapper from Ekahau.com creates a heat map of wireless signal strength over a surveyed area and is invaluable when trying to find the best orientation for your Luxul Xen AP. For more details on how to use Ekahau HeatMapper see the How to Video Use Ekahau HeatMapper to Map Wi-Fi Signal Strength. For MAC users, WiFi Analyzer is available in the app store for all versions of OS X.

Q:	Do I place the Luxul Xen AP in the center of the desired coverage area?
A:	That depends greatly on the type of Xen AP you have purchased. The XAP-1030 implements an omni-directional antenna and is designed specifically to be placed at the center of the desired coverage area: All other Luxul Xen APs implement directional antenna(s) and should be placed at the edge of the desired coverage area: For assistance in determining the area being covered by your Xen AP see the How to Video Use Ekahau HeatMapper to Map Wi-Fi Signal Strength.

Q:	Do I need to change the default IP address of the Xen AP?
A:	The entire Luxul Xen line is designed to work out of the box with little or no additional configuration required. When used in conjunction with the XBR-2300 router and other Luxul Xen products, the Xen AP automatically recognizes and connects optimally to those devices. When deployed with third party routers or modems, a change to the default address may be required.

Q:	What type of cable is used between the Luxul Xen AP and external Antenna?
A:	The cable used for all antenna connections is 50Ohm coaxial cable. This cable is not compatible with 75Ohm RJ6 or RJ58 which are typically used for television systems. It is recommended to use low loss cable and keeping cable lengths as short as possible. If using a splitter, be sure cable lengths to antennas are of equal length.