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Ruckus Wireless
MetroFlex, MediaFlex, ZoneFlex
Access Points and Access Gateways
Ruckus Access Points and Metro-Mesh Wi-Fi Repeaters for Broadband Operators,
HotZone Operators, and Small/Medium Business Owners
Buy Ruckus Wireless access points and controllers from Connect802 to Take Advantage of our Wi-Fi Design and Consulting Experience |
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MetroFlex NG Access Gateway and 802.11g Wi-Fi Router - This device connects to an outdoor Wi-Fi system and retransmits the signal into a home or office of up to roughly 2000 square feet. The MetroFlex NG is a specialized Wi-Fi repeater and range extender that connects to the mesh or WDS network on the pole outside and then acts to repeat the wireless LAN connections into and out of the home or office. This functionality is also referred to as a "wireless client bridge" or "Wi-Fi client bridge." When you need to buy a Wi-Fi WLAN wireless network repeater or range extender the MetroFlex NG Access Gateway will meet your 802.11 repeater or range extender requirements.
MediaFlex Access Point - This device connects to a standard broadband router to provide multimedia-optimized access point services. The Media Flex Access Point is a specialized 802.11g access point, optimized for IP-based video and audio.
ZoneFlex Access Points - These are 802.11a/b/g access points that both incorporate the Ruckus beamsteering antenna system and are managed and controlled through a central ZoneDirector appliance designed to simplify the setup and configuration of a small business(SMB) or Hot Zone Wi-Fi system.
Beam-Steering - The Ruckus Wireless Difference
As the user of a mobile device moves from room to room in a home or office the degree to which an access point's signal is attenuated (reduced) varies from room to room. The amount of signal power being sent in any particular direction by an access point's typical omnidirectional "rubber duck" style antenna doesn't change. The result is that the user encounters areas of reduced signal strength, reduced throughput, and "dead spots" where they lose connectivity.
The Ruckus Wireless antenna system is different. By incorporate multiple internal antenna elements in an antenna array the circuitry in a Ruckus access point is able to dynamically focus the antennas strongest beam. It's like a directional antenna that tracks the movements of the mobile devices, always pointing in the right direction. This tracking occurs on a packet-by-packet basis and stabilizes the wireless network's performance.
A stable, directional connection helps reduce weak coverage areas, dead spots, and poor performance. This provides picture-perfect video streaming and crystal-clear audio and voice communications in addition to maintaining the highest possible throughput to each individual client. |
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The Ruckus BeamFlex Beam-Steering Antenna Array |
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The Ruckus Wireless Value Proposition |
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 Why you will choose Ruckus Wireless: |
The focus for the value proposition of each Ruckus Wireless product family is different. The MetroFlex repeater / range extender is a product of choice when you have offices, homes, apartments, hotel rooms, or dormitory rooms that aren't able to get sufficient Wi-Fi coverage from an outdoor Wi-Fi network. Ruckus provides a completely vendor-neutral repeater solution able to serve as a Strix System Wi-Fi repeater, Tropos Networks Wi-Fi repeater, BelAir Networks and Mesh Dynamics Wi-Fi repeater - any mesh router or outdoor WLAN vendor's system that's installed on poles outdoors can be repeated into a building using a Ruckus Wireless MetroFlex Access Gateway repeater.
You'll choose the ZoneFlex system when you need centralized Wi-Fi wireless network management for a small- to mid-sized system but you need it to be very easy to setup and it must provide guest access support. Only Ruckus Wireless pulls these types of sophisticated features into a Wizard-driven configuration system targeted at organization without formal IT departments.
You'll choose the MediaFlex access point if you're implementing in-home or in-building wireless IPTV or IP-audio. |
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| How you will decide that Ruckus Wireless provides the best solution: |
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PUTTING
THE VENDORS ON THE
RADAR
It's
not a question
of "better",
it's a question
of "different." Talk
to your Connect802
sales representative
about where
we see the
best fit
for your
application |
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The Ruckus Wireless MetroFlex Repeater is a clear choice when an outdoor Wi-Fi wireless mesh or distribution system (or public-access Wi-Fi network) doesn't provide sufficient coverage inside the building. The combination of the Ruckus BeamFlex beam-steering antenna to point to and direct signal to just the right place plus the ability to connect to and extend any Wi-Fi wireless network vendor's system into the building are a unique combination in the marketplace.
You'll choose the centrally-managed Ruckus ZoneFlex system for enterprise-class in-building wireless when you're requirements demand strong control and centralized management but do not demand a built-in stateful packet inspection firewall or other features associated with more elaborate system solutions. Ruckus provides an excellent "middle of the road" solution. You get the coverage advantage of the Ruckus BeamFlex technology without the complexity associated with systems that provide a broad scope of specialized, advanced security and configuration options. |
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| Where you will see the greatest value with Ruckus Wireless: |
| You'll find that many times the cost-to-feature/benefit proposition for a Ruckus Wireless MediaFlex centrally managed Wi-Fi wireless LAN system outweighs those of other manufacturers. The most important aspect in weighing the value of a Ruckus Wireless solution against other options is to carefully determine the features and capabilities you'll need in your system. In particular, the aspects of stateful packet inspection firewall support, the degree of sophistication required from a captive portal Web login page for visitors and guests, and the level of complexity you're willing to tolerate with regard to the details of configuration and on-going management. When these requirements are not at the top of your list then Ruckus Wireless has a cost-effective, enterprise-class solution to meet your needs. |
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| When you are ready to buy a Ruckus Wireless solution: |
To buy the Ruckus MetroFlex Repeater you simply talk to your Connect802 sales representative to confirm that it will meet your project requirements and place your order. Quantity discounts are available. When considering the Ruckus Wireless MediaFlex centrally-managed wireless LAN switch system then a Connect802 engineer will get involved to help confirm your requirements and make sure that the Ruckus Wireless solution is an exact fit (both in terms of features and in terms of price/feature trade-offs).
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Ruckus Wireless
Equipment and Software Details |
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Ruckus Wireless products fall into three main groups:
- The MetroFlex Access Gateway and Wi-Fi Router that acts as a Wi-Fi repeater / range extender specifically designed to connect to an outdoor Wi-Fi network (possibly a mesh router metro-area or campus-wide network) and repeat the outdoor signal into the home or office.
- The MediaFlex Access Point which is an 802.11g access point optimized for use with video and audio
- The ZoneFlex system which consists of 802.11a/b/g/n access points and a centralized controller. ZoneFlex is specifically targeted at the Small- to Medium-Sized-Business (SMB) space with ease-of-use and ease-of-setup being a significant factor.
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Ruckus MetroFlex 802.11g Access Gateway and Wi-Fi Router
The Ruckus MetroFlex NG is two products in one. It acts as a wireless access gateway, providing reliable connectivity to outdoor Wi-Fi networks, as well as an extended range indoor 802.11b/g access point.
The Ruckus MetroFlex NG is the world’s first customer premise equipment specifically designed and optimized for broadband operators building large-scale metro Wi-Fi networks. Acting as both an access point and a WLAN repeater, the Ruckus MetroFlex Access Gateway connects to the existing outdoor wireless LAN and then repeats the wireless LAN Wi-Fi signals into the home or office. The effective range of the outdoor Wi-Fi network is extended through this 802.11 Wi-Fi repeating function.
Self-installable, the Ruckus MetroFlex NG utilizes dynamic host configuration protocol (DHCP) for automatic configuration with the metro Wi-Fi network. The Ruckus MetroFlex NG has a simple and intuitive user interface and pr vides a setup wizard to guide the home users to configure the device. |
MetroFlex
Receive Sensitivity |
802.11b
1 Mbps -99 to -108 dBm
2 Mbps -96 to -104 dBm
5 Mbps -91 to -98 dBm
11 Mbps -90 to -94 dBm
802.11g
6 Mbps -93 to -96 dBm
9 Mbps -90 to -96 dBm
12 Mbps -90 to -94 dBm
18 Mbps -88 to -91 dBm
24 Mbps -85 to -88 dBm
36 Mbps -82 to -86 dBm
48 Mbps -78 to -81 dBm
54 Mbps -76 to -81 dBm |
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The Ruckus MetroFlex NG is equipped to be remotely manageable by the metro Wi-Fi service provider’s network management center via HTTP, HTTPS, Telnet and SSH. The Ruckus MetroFlex NG provides extensive statistics to the service provider’s network management center for ease of troubleshooting and monitoring. Multiple clients are supported behind the Ruckus MetroFlex NG in the metro Wi-Fi network. Integrated NUTTCP support allows providers to conduct performance testing directly from the metro node to the MetroFlex NG.
The Ruckus MetroFlex NG is equipped with DHCP server functionality. The MetroFlex supports multiple home PCs by automatically assigning dynamic IP addresses. Network address translation (NAT) is used to give home PCs Internet access. In the event of a broadband connection failure, the MetroFlex NG automatically alerts the user by redirecting them to an status page while continuing to provide local network connectivity.
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Ruckus Wireless MediaFlex 2835 and MediaFlex NG
The Ruckus MediaFlex 2835 is the first Smart Wi-Fi platform developed specifically for carriers to extend their broadband networks and network services by building “hotspots at home” - opening the door to a whole new world of managed Wi-Fi services.
The MediaFlex 2835 turns homes into public or private hotspots, while maintaining complete independence, security, and service subscription of the customer.
Now, service providers can expand their network footprint, confidently offload traffic from cellular networks to faster Wi-Fi networks and exploit unused local loop capacity to provide innovative new services. Expanded Wi-Fi coverage can be used to offer Internet access, voice over Wi-Fi services, and infotainment services to users inside and outside the residence.
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For the home user, the MediaFlex 2835 is a high-quality, long-range and full-feature Wi-Fi router that ensures whole home coverage and support for multimedia applications.
Ruckus MediaFlex can be managed remotely over any IP network and offers four discrete wireless LANs (WLAN) with separate policies. Each WLAN can be dedicated to a specific service or limited to support a specific traffic type. Another variation, the MediaFlex Adapter, provides a simple Ethernet connection for Ethernet-equipped media devices such as settop boxes and media center extenders.
MetroFlex NG
The MetroFlex NG variation of the MediaFlex access point is a complete 802.11g access point and Wi-Fi router designed as customer premise equipment for broadband operators. Combined with the Ruckus FlexMaster management system a broadband carrier (or MTU operator)
The Ruckus MediaFlex 2835 offers a range of access control and authentication schemes to allow the operator to not only offer general-purpose Internet access, but also to limit the usage of particular SSIDs to captive carrier services such as UMA, IMS, IPTV, or music and radio streaming. This simplifies service provisioning allowing the carrier to retain control of SSIDs and security parameters configurations, while providing a seamless experience to the end user.
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Ruckus ZoneFlex Indoor Access Point
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Ruckus Wireless ZoneFlex 2925, 2942 and 7942 Access Point
- ZoneFlex 2942
with 802.11b/g
- ZoneFlex 7942 with 802.11b/g and 802.11n (2.4 GHz only)
- ZoneFlex 2925 Lite Mesh Gateway
The Ruckus Wireless ZoneFlex is a centrally managed, multimedia Wi-Fi access point.
Together with the Ruckus ZoneDirector central WLAN controller, Ruckus ZoneFlex Access Points (APs) plug-and-play with minimal operational overhead. Ideal for hotels, schools, airports and medium-sized businesses with little or no IT staff and a limited budget, the Ruckus ZoneFlex is also perfect for hotspot operators that want to deliver business class hotspot services — such as voice over Wi-Fi, IP-based video or secure enterprise access.
The ZoneFlex 7942 provides 2.4 GHz 802.11n and carries the promise of high data rates and throughput. The ZoneFlex 2925 Lite Mesh Gateway connects wirelessly to the Ruckus ZoneFlex system.
Both ZoneFlex models implement Ruckus-patented BeamFlex™ smart antenna technology that enables consistent, high performance, extended coverage and multimedia support as it automatically tunes itself to adapt to constant changes in the environment. This means fewer APs, more satisfied users, and a cost-effective system that can be installed anywhere by non-wireless experts.
The ZoneFlex 2925, a table-top version of the ZoneFlex access point, looks like a MediaFlex access point but is designed to interoperate in the ZoneFlex centrally managed system. |
Ruckus ZoneFlex Outdoor Access Point |
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Ruckus Wireless Zone Director 1000
The Ruckus Wireless ZoneDirector 1000 is a first centrally managed multimedia Wireless LAN (WLAN) solution controller developed specifically for small-to-medium enterprises (SMEs) and hot zone operators.
With simplicity and ease of use in mind, the Ruckus ZoneDirector 1000 is purpose-built to address the gap between standalone, feature deficient access points (APs) that must be individually managed and the costly, complex high end enterprise systems that are overkill for most small business environments.
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The Ruckus ZoneDirector 1000 is ideal for small businesses that require a robust and secure wireless LAN that can be easily deployed, centrally managed and automatically tuned. The ZoneDirector 1000 is also perfect for operators who want to offer business class hot spot services such as voice over Wi-Fi, IP-based video, secure enterprise access and tiered Wi-Fi services in venues such as hotels, airports, schools and public buildings.
The Ruckus ZoneDirector easily integrates with network, security and authentication infrastructure already in place and is easily configured through a point-and-click web-based wizard. Ruckus ZoneFlex APs automatically discover and are configured by the ZoneDirector. Redundant and secure, the Ruckus ZoneDirector provides WLAN-wide network, security, RF and location management within a single, easy-to-use and affordable WLAN system.
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Ruckus Wireless Zone Director 3000
The Ruckus Wireless ZoneDirector 3000 is an enterprise-class Smart Wireless LAN system that delivers a secure, robust and easily expandable WLAN solution at an unmatched total cost of ownership.
Capable of managing up to 250 ZoneFlex 802.11g and 80211n Smart Wi-Fi access points from a central point, the Ruckus ZoneDirector 3000 is designed for simplicity and ease of use.
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The ZoneDirector 3000 integrates advanced features such as intelligent beam steering, smart wireless meshing and dynamic Wi-Fi security not found in any other WLAN system. The Ruckus ZoneDirector 3000 can be deployed and operated by non-wireless experts and installed quickly and easily. Any organization with limited IT staff and budget can create a robust and secure multimedia WLAN in a matter of minutes.
The Ruckus ZoneDirector easily integrates with network, security and authentication infrastructure already in place and is easily configured through a point-and-click web wizard. Ruckus ZoneFlex access points (APs) automatically discover and are configured by the ZoneDirector. Redundant and secure, the Ruckus ZoneDirector provides WLAN-wide network, security, RF and location management within a single, easy-to-use and affordable WLAN system. |
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Targeted Discussion and Specifications For The Ruckus Wireless LAN Switch System
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| You'll find numerous Web references and reviews of wireless network range extenders. Below are some targeted discussions to provide you with additional perspective on how a Ruckus Wireless 802.11 repeater or WLAN range extender solution can be implemented to meet your requirements for a secure, easy-to-manage wireless LAN system. |
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| A wireless range extender increases the distance over which a WLAN signal can spread, overcoming obstacles and enhancing overall network signal quality. Several different forms of wireless range extenders are available. These products are sometimes called "range expanders" or "signal boosters."
A wireless range extender works as a relay or network repeater, picking up and reflecting WiFi signals from a network's base router or access point. The network performance of devices connected through a range extender will generally be lower than if they were connected directly to the primary base station.
A wireless range extender connects wirelessly to a WiFi router or access point. However, due to the nature of this technology, most wireless range extenders work only with a limited set of other equipment. Check the manufacturer's specifications carefully for compatibility information.
If your house has an area where coverage is poor, consider buying a wireless range extender. Architecturally the repeater connects to another wireless router as a client, getting a single IP address via DHCP. Effectively the SSID network it connects to becomes your ISP. Therefore you (the client) will operate in your own IP address space, which is different from address space the repeater connects to.
A wireless LAN Wi-Fi repeater / range extender example:
In a given neighborhood, there are 3 open access wireless networks, jojo, linksys and internetmad. The repeater automatically receives an IP address from jojo. Let's say jojo is using 192.168.1.0/24, and your DDWRT router receives the address 192.168.1.139. The repeater is configured to use 172.16.100.0/24. From your laptop, you associate with the SSID "repeater" and you receive the address 172.16.101.100 via DHCP. As far as your laptop is concerned you are talking to repeater. As far as repeater is concerned, its gateway is "jojo" and jojo probably has another gateway via cable modem or DSL.
In Wi-Fi networking, bridging mode allows two or more wireless access points (APs) to communicate with each for the purpose of joining multiple LANs.
Many Wi-Fi bridging mode products exist with varying levels of functionality. Some wireless bridges support only a single point-to-point connection to another AP. Others support point-to-multipoint connections to several other APs. Each AP in bridging mode connects to a wired LAN. Some AP models simultaneously support wireless clients while operating in bridging mode, but others work as "bridge-only" and disallow any clients from connecting. Some APs only support bridging with other APs from the same manufacturer or product family.
In Wi-Fi, repeater mode is a variation on bridging. Rather than join multiple LANs, repeater mode is intended mainly to increase the range of a single wireless LAN by extending the same wireless signal.
While it may seem that higher power Wi-Fi might help to improve your range, that's not necessarily true, since higher power only helps on transmit, not receive. Thus it's only likely to help if the other end of your connection is using higher power as well, which is often not the case. In other words, what you may well wind up with is an alligator, big mouth but small ears. Also, unnecessarily high transmit power will tend to increase your interference with other Wi-Fi users, making you a bad neighbor. It's usually much better to just improve your antenna, which helps both transmit and receive.
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