In the previous article we discussed Point to Point (PtP) wireless connections, and in this one we will look at some real-world examples of where PtP has ‘saved the day’ in regard to maintaining connectivity and quality of service.
1. Extending internet or network connection from the main location
Let’s say, for example, that there are records in your organization that are accessed from the main work building, or via an internet connection received on a building that doesn’t need internet access, and sent back to the main work building.
Location 1: Any powered shed, building, dwelling, or other structure with its own independent power. This will be known as ‘base location’ and will hold the computer and network and internet connection that you desire to access from Location 2.
Location 2: The reason for PtP in the first place, the location that needs to benefit from the internet connectivity provided in Location 1. The location must have a clear line of site to Location 1, and must be within range of the tools you have, so be sure that you get tools that can manage the distance.
- The internet or network connection is set up as required at Location 1.
- The PtP equipment is plugged into the internet connection box, computer, or network server at Location 1.
- The second PtP receiver is set up at Location 2.
- A standard wireless router is plugged into the PtP receiver at Location 2.
- The internet or network connection is received by computers and devices at Location 2.
2. Accessing the same internet or network connection in two separated locations
Let’s say, for example, your warehouse accessing the single internet connection is at the main building.
Location 1: As in our first example, Location 1 is a powered shed, building, dwelling, or other structure with independent power. This location will also hold the computer, network and/or internet connection that desires access from Location 2.
Location 2: The location where network and/or internet connectivity is required. It must have Line of Sight to Location 1, and must be within the appropriate range for the proposed equipment to be used.
- The internet or network connection is set up as required at Location 1.
- A standard wireless router is plugged into the internet modem or computers/server. You’ll use this router to access the computer, network, or internet at Location 1.
- The point-to-point (PtP) equipment is plugged into the wireless router at Location 1.
- The second PtP receiver is set up at Location 2.
- A second standard wireless router is plugged into the PtP receiver at Location 2.
- The internet or network connection is received by computers and devices at Location 2.
If, by using this setup, you are sharing an internet service, you may need to set up the router so each location gets an equal share of all available bandwidth. Doing so stops the risk of one location taking all the connection and ruining the other’s access.
Check the configuration of the routers – or get someone to – as the two locations may not share the same network. The network connection will impact all shared devices in the organization (over the two locations), such as printers, scanners, or backup drives. If Location 1, for example, is the main house and Location 2 is an external warehouse, and the printer or scanner is back in the main building, then the warehouse may not be able to use the printer at all.
If it is mission critical to have all devices at both locations on the same network, you need a ‘transparent’ connection and a switch as opposed to a router at Location 2.
These are just two ways that PtP can help you stay connected, but, as we said, this can be difficult, so don’t hesitate to contact us for help.
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