Abstract

Xirrus Inc. commissioned The Tolly Group to evaluate the performance of its IEEE 802.11a/b/g XS-3x00 family of Wi-Fi Arrays. These devices combine the functionality of a WLAN switch/controller with Integrated Access Points (IAPs) in a single device. The Wi-Fi array includes 16 high-gain, multi-sector antennas housed in a circular enclosure.

Engineers performed a battery of outdoor tests in an open field to illustrate real-world outdoor performance. Tests were conducted with a pair of Xirrus XS-3900 Wi-Fi arrays acting as a WDS (Wireless Distribution System) — a wireless backbone — as well as between a single Wi-Fi array and an end-user station using a standard 802.11a/b/g wireless card. Testing evaluated the performance and range characteristics. Tests were conducted in August 2006.