Cisco Aironet 3700 Series Quick reference guide

Cisco Systems, Inc.
www.cisco.com
Cisco Aironet Series 2700/3700 Access Points
Deployment Guide
Last Updated: May, 2014
Cisco Aironet Series 3700 Access Point
Abstract
This section covers the Cisco 3700 Series Access Points theory of operation and installation as part of a
Cisco wireless LAN (WLAN) solution. Subjects related include:
•Choosing the right Access Point.
•Differences between AP 3700 and AP 3600.
•Feature module and ClientLink support.
•Physical/Hardware details, mounting options, bracket choices, and installation considerations.
•Antenna options, radiation patterns, and external antenna deployments.
•Understanding spatial streams, MCS rates and beam-forming (802.11n Primer).
•Review of 802.11ac and Wave-1 module for AP 3600.
•Understanding 802.11ac and Wave-1 for the AP 3700.
•Best Practices–Understanding Channel usage, 80 MHz, and available 11ac clients.
•802.11ac performance considerations.
This document is intended for trained and experienced technical personnel familiar with the existing
Cisco Wireless Networking Group (WNG) product line and features.

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Choosing the Right Access Point
Models
The Cisco 3700 Series Access Point (AP 3700) targets customers requiring support for mission-critical
applications. The AP 3700 embodies ClientLink 3.0, an innovative antenna technology comprising four
transmit radios and four receive radios called 4X4 in a Multiple Input Multiple Output (MIMO)
configuration supporting 3 spatial streams (3SS) together referenced as 4x4:3. Using this type of antenna
system along with additional Modulation Coding Schemes (MCS rates supporting up to 256 QAM) and
80 MHz channel bonding, rates of up to 1.3 Gbps can be supported.
ClientLink 3.0–using these features along with an additional antenna (N+1)–allows for beam-forming
for all 802.11a/g/n clients (like ClientLink 2.0) and now beamforms to 11ac 3 spatial streams clients.
Figure 1 Access Point Portfolio Placement
Access Points are available in three models:
•Internal antennas version labeled “i” have captured antennas (part of the housing and not
removable). The “i” series is designed for indoor Enterprise installations where office aesthetics are
a primary concern.
•External antennas version labeled “e” are more rugged and designed for industrial use in locations,
such as hospitals, factories, warehouses, and anywhere a need exists for external antennas and/or
extended operating temperatures. The “e” version also supports mounting inside NEMA enclosures
for use in the most demanding environments.
•Access Points for Professional Installations are labeled “p” series and may be used in outdoor
applications.

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Figure 2 AP 3700 Models and Eco-Packs
Figure 3 AP 3600 Models and Eco-Packs

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Differences between the AP 3700 and AP 3600
The mechanical front of the AP 3700 and AP 3600 are similar in physical appearance with the exception
of the “industrial cuts” along the edges of the 3700 (left) and the deeper recess around the logo area. This
allows for easy visual identification of the different AP device types.
Figure 4 AP 3700 vs. AP 3600 (External Antenna Models)
Figure 5 AP 3700 and AP 3600 (Backside Identical)
The AP 3700e supports 802.11ac (Wave-1) native. This frees the feature module slot for additional
functionality while also permitting external antenna connections for 802.11ac data rates (w/AP 3700e).

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Figure 6 Identifying APs Physically
Feature Module Support
AP 3700 and AP 3600 both have integrated support for option modules. The goal in supporting a modular
design is to offer a product that can provide longevity and true flexibility as technology changes. This
provides a real value protection for customers. It also provides Cisco with an opportunity to introduce
new features and functionality into a current stable platform.
The Wireless Security and Spread Spectrum Intelligence (WSSI) module adds new functionality to the
AP to future-proof customers' investment. This module provides a dedicated monitor radio to scan the
full spectrum (not just the channel on which the AP is operating). It will offload complete monitoring
and security services to the monitor module including CleanAir, WIDS/WIPS, Context-aware Location,
Rogue Detection, and Radio Resource Management (RRM). This module allows for full spectrum
analysis on all channels on both the 2.4 and 5 GHz bands.
Having a WSSI module avoids having the need to deploy a separate, dedicated overlay network for full
spectrum monitoring and eliminates the need for an extra cable pull and additional infrastructure costs
(Figure 7).
There is also an option module for the AP 3600 that provides 802.11ac (Wave-1) functionality. This
option cannot be used on the AP 3700 because it already has 802.11ac (Wave-1) integrated. This option
module for the AP 3600 will operate at 5GHz and allow the AP 3600 to fully support 802.11a/n along
with 802.11ac clients. Wave-1 functionality supports a 1.3 Gbps PHY / ~1 Gbps MAC (throughput)
using 3 spatial streams, 80 MHz, and 256 QAM. The option module does not support ClientLink 2.0 but
rather supports the Explicit beamforming specification that is part of the 802.11ac standard.
Look out for additional modules for 3/4G support and 802.11ac Wave-2.
Use of option modules may require local power supply, Cisco power injector, .3at PoE+, or the use of
Cisco Enhanced PoE, as the module typically increases the power draw to greater than 15.4W (.3af).
Note Cisco Enhanced PoE was created by Cisco and is the forerunner to 802.3at PoE+.

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Figure 7 Feature Module of the Bottom of the AP 3700 and AP 3600
Beamforming – Understanding ClientLink
The AP 3700 supports the new “ClientLink 3.0” and is able to beamform to 802.11ac clients including
1, 2, and 3 spatial streams. It also supports all ClientLink 2.0 functionality with legacy 11a/g clients and
802.11n 1, 2, and 3 spatial stream clients.
The AP 3600 supports ClientLink 2.0 which beamforms to legacy 11a/g clients and 11n 1, 2, 3 spatial
stream but does not support ClientLink 3.0 (Cisco beamforming method to 11ac clients).
Both the AP 3700 and AP 3600 with module supports the 802.11ac beamforming standard known as
ECBF (Explicit Compressed Beam Forming)–a new IEEE method of beamforming that is emerging but
not yet fully supported in 11ac clients. Cisco ClientLink is similar but can work with all clients today
including 11a/g/n as well as 11ac clients. ClientLink also takes advantage of the extra transceiver in the
AP, so it beamforms to clients with 3 spatial streams.

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Figure 8 ClientLink Feature Comparison
Both, the AP 3700 and AP 3600 support a 4x4:3 architecture. However, the AP 3600 with the module
only supports 11ac in a 3x3:3 mode and lacks the ability to beamform AC clients beyond 7 clients at a
time whereas, the AP 3700 can beamform 128 clients per radio interface.

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Figure 9 Feature Comparison of AP 3600 and AP 3700
APs Physical Hardware and Mounting Options
AP 1600, 2600, 3600, and 3700 have similar physical dimensions with a few differences in physical
appearance, most of which are cosmetic changes to distinguish the different models. The mounting
options and bracket configurations are identical and interchangeable.

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Figure 10 Mechanical Drawing of APs 1600, 2600, and 3600
Figure 11 3700 Mechanical Drawing
There are many different installation options available depending upon the requirements of the customer.
Brackets are available from Cisco as well as third-party companies. During the ordering process, the
customer may choose one of two brackets (but not both). Each bracket is a zero-dollar ($0) option at the

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time of configuration. If the customer does not choose a bracket, the selection default is
AIR-AP-BRACKET-1, which is the most popular for ceiling installations. The other choice is a universal
bracket that carries part number AIR-AP-BRACKET-2 (Figure 12).
Figure 12 Access Point Bracket Choices - If You Are Using the AP 3600 Module, We Recommend
AIR-AP-Bracket-2
If the AP needs to be mounted directly to a ceiling on the gridwork, then AIR-AP-BRACKET-1 is
mounted flush and has the lowest profile. However, if the AP is mounted to an electrical box or other
wiring fixture, or inside a NEMA enclosure or perhaps wall mounted, then AIR-AP-BRACKET-2 is a
better choice. The extra space in the bracket allows for wiring, and the extra holes line up with many
popular electrical boxes. When mounting the bracket to the ceiling gridwork, some ceiling tiles are
recessed. For this reason, two different styles of ceiling clips, recessed and flush rails, are available
(Figure 13).
Figure 13 Different Clips are Available for Attaching to Ceiling Grid Work
Channel Rail Adapters - Cisco Part Number AIR-CHNL-ADAPTER
When mounting APs to ceiling channel rails such as the ones shown in Figure 14, an optional channel
adapter is used, AIR-CHNL-ADAPTER. It comes in a two-pack and attaches to the ceiling grid clip
shown above. Refer to Figure 14 and Figure 15.

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Figure 14 Example of Channel Rails
Figure 15 AIR-CHNL-ADAPTER (left) Slides Onto the Rails
Figure 16 AIR-CHNL-ADAPTER Mounted to Rail Clip (left) and Finished Installation (right)

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Mounting an AP Directly Into the Tile Using Optional AIR-AP-BRACKET-3
Many hospitals and other carpeted enterprise environments prefer a more streamlined look and wish to
install the AP directly into the tile. This can be done using the optional Cisco AIR-AP-BRACKET-3
(Figure 17).
When using this bracket, the “beauty ring” is used as the template to cut the tile, which can be cut using
a carpet knife or an electric tool such as a rotary cutting tool, e.g., Dremel™ or Rotozip™. Cisco does
not offer custom cut tiles because there are simply too many different styles and the tiles are easy to cut.
The AP is fully supported above the tile with a metal rail that extends the length of the tile. This supports
the AP should the tile become wet or otherwise fail. A mechanical set screw pulls the AP tight to the
ceiling and locks it into the bracket. Additionally, physical security of the AP can be maintained by the
use of a Kensington style lock, but once installed it is difficult to remove the AP without removing the
tile because the AP will not slide out from the front side of the tile.
Figure 17 Optional AIR-AP-BRACKET-3 Used to Install the AP Directly Into the Tile
Note This bracket will fit the 1040, 1140, 1260, 1600, 2600, 3500, 3600, and 3700 Series APs.
Wall Mounting the AP
When wall mounting is desired, the installer should understand that walls can be a physical obstacle to
the wireless signal; therefore, maintaining 360 degree coverage may be compromised by the wall. If the
wall is an outside wall and/or the goal is to send the signal in a 180-degree pattern instead, a directional
antenna often referred to as a “patch” antenna may be a better choice assuming that the AP 3600e is used.
Avoid wall-mounting APs with internal antennas, such as the AP 3600i, unless you use the optional
Oberon right-angle mount (Figure 18). The internal antenna model was designed to mount to a ceiling
to provide 360-degree coverage. If wall-mounted in a non-ceiling orientation, the signal may penetrate
the floor above and below causing unintended coverage that could result in additional and needless
roaming access when a mobility client, e.g., a user with Wi-Fi phone, walks by on an adjacent floor.
Instead, use the AP 3600e (with dipoles or patch antennas) or use an optional wall mount that puts the
AP 3600i or AP 3500e into a ceiling type orientation when mounted to a wall.

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Note APs with internal antennas such as the AP 3600i and AP 3700i that are wall mounted should use the
Oberon mounting bracket unless roaming is not an issue, e.g., hotspot, kiosk, or small venue scenario.
Figure 18 Wall-Mounting APs Antennas Should be Vertical (Up/Down) or Use the Oberon
Right-Angle Mounting Structure - Ideal for the “I” series such as 3600i and 3700i.
Oberon P/N 1029-00)
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Changing the Color of an AP
If there is a desire to change the color of an AP, rather than painting the AP which would void the
warranty, consider using colored vinyl tape or a colored plastic cover from Oberon (Figure 19).
Figure 19 Third-Party Option for Changing AP Color, Adding Custom Logo, or Hiding the LED

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Unique Installations
Clean Rooms (Healthcare)
Many hospitals and factories have requirements to wipe down or gently spray the environment with a
chemical (often diluted material that has cleaning / disinfectant properties). The Cisco AP 3600 is
designed with a purpose guild Wi-Fi chipset with enterprise and industrial class components (Figure 20).
This enables the AP enclosure to have a Plenum rating and is vent-less, so the unit is ideal for these types
of applications.
Figure 20 Inside the AP 3600 - Cover Removed (No Vents or Fans, Everything is Industrial
Quality)
Note AP 2600 and AP 3700 is also made of a similar construction and designed for clean room deployments.
If the clean room environment requires metal ceilings or areas where tile is not practical, a metal
enclosure from Oberon can be used (Figure 21).

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Figure 21 Oberon Metal Enclosure Protects and Secures the AP in Clean Room Areas
Above the Ceiling Tiles
The AP 3600 and 3700 are rated for installation in the Plenum area (UL-2043). Many customers prefer
to locate the AP so that nothing can be visible on the ceiling. In some cases this is preferred for aesthetic
reasons, so customers may install the AP above a drop ceiling. This also may be preferred in high theft
areas such as classrooms or in areas where policy dictates that nothing can be visible on the ceiling.
When this is a hard requirement, optional T-Bar hangar accessories from third-party companies, such as
Erico and Cooper, can be used (Figure 22). The Erico Caddy 512a, the Cooper B-Line BA50a, or similar
T-Bar Grid T-Bar hangars can be used.
For more information see:
www.erico.com
www.cooperindustries.com

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Figure 22 Example of How to Hang an AP Above the Ceiling Tiles
Note Installing APs above the ceiling tiles should only be done when mounting below the ceiling is not an
option. The tiles must not be conductive; such installations can certainly degrade advanced RF features
such as voice and location, so verify coverage and performance. Always try to mount the AP as close to
the inside middle of the tile as possible, and avoid areas with obstructions (Figure 23).
Figure 23 Installing AP Above Ceiling Tiles: Pick An Area Clear of Obstructions and Avoid Ceiling
Clutter
Stadium/Harsh Environments
Customers wishing to install the AP in harsh environments where it may be exposed to weather, such as
sporting areas, stadiums, open garden areas, or warehouse freezers, may wish to use a NEMA type
enclosure.

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Note Some APs may not be certified for outdoor deployments in a NEMA enclosure. This varies around the
world, for example some regulatory agencies permit AP outdoor NEMA enclosures if the AP is indoors
such as a freezer or garden area but may prohibit its usage outdoors. This seems to vary with regard to
weather radar compliance and often UNII-1 compliance and so on. Check with your Cisco account team
or the communications regulatory agency that has jurisdiction in your part of the world.
Figure 24 Example of NEMA 16x14x8 Enclosure With Pressure Vent on Bottom
Third-party sources for NEMA type enclosures include:
www.oberonwireless.com
www.sparcotech.com
www.terra-wave.com
When using a NEMA type enclosure, try to have the cables exit out of the bottom of the enclosure so
that rain and moisture do not run down the cable into the enclosure. Also, the color of the enclosure may
affect the heat rating; for example, a black enclosure gets much hotter in the sun than a white one. You
may also want to use a pressure vent to prevent moisture accumulation. See Figure 24.
Areas With High Vibration
If the AP is installed using a “side arm” type mount or other mounting locations where there is a
likelihood of high vibration, it is recommended that a padlock or metal pin be used to prevent the AP
from vibrating loose from the bracket.

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Figure 25 A Metal Pin or Padlock Will Not Deteriorate Over Time So It is Better Than a Plastic Tie
Warehouse and Factory
Warehouse installations are often difficult because of the very high ceilings and the clutter of the
material being warehoused. When performing a coverage check (site survey) always check the coverage
at “full stock” levels because the material being warehoused can change the RF coverage creating loss
of uniform coverage. Also, try to position the APs as close to the users, perhaps lowering the antennas
when possible or practical to do so. If the AP is 30 feet in the air, that is, the signal has to go 30 feet
further, “best case”. When configuring coverage for aisles, try to use directional (Patch) antennas on the
wall and shoot down the aisles; or use low-gain Omni-directional antennas on the ceiling (such as
dipoles) or units with integrated antennas because high gain omnidirectional antennas tend to have more
nulls. See Figure 26.
Another option is to mount the AP lower using pipe and electrical box mounting techniques.

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Figure 26 AP Placement in a Warehouse Environment
Note External dipole “e” series or internal antenna “I” series version could be used.
When mounting an AP at the end of a pipe or electrical conduit box, use the universal bracket Cisco
AIR-AP-BRACKET-2 because it will fit to the holes of most electrical boxes (Figure 27). Conduit and
adapters can be purchased in most electrical or home repair centers.

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Figure 27 Mounting an AP onto an Electrical Conduit Box (Ceiling T-Bar or Conduit)
Ethernet Cable Recommendation
While the AP 1600/2600 and 3600 will work fine with CAT-5e, for new cable installations, it is
recommended that customers use CAT6a because this is the cabling required by the 10GE standard.
Antenna Cable Recommendation
Whenever practical/possible, please keep antenna cable runs as short as possible. Cisco offers low loss
(LL) and ultralow loss (ULL) cables, which have the same characteristics as Times Microwave LMR-400
and LMR-600.
Cisco cables carry the part number AIR-CAB (Aironet Cable) and then a length. For example, a 20 Ft
length of LL cable with RP-TNC connector is Cisco AIR-CAB-020LL-R. These heavy black cables are
not Plenum rated and are primarily for outdoor use or manufacturing areas.
Figure 28 When Drilling Holes for Cable, Allow for Size of Connector (Typically 5/8 Inch) Drill Bit