Bridge Connection
Bridge roles in the network

The Cisco bridges can be configured to operate in different modes. The BR350, or multifunction bridge, has the same receiver sensitivity, power levels, and capabilities, as the Cisco Aironet APs with .11b radio chips. This means that while operating in AP mode, the Cisco Aironet multi-function bridge can be configured as a fully IEEE 802.11 compliant AP, which will support wireless clients. A single parent bridge can support numerous child bridges. Theoretically, the maximum number of child bridges that could be supported is 2007. The number of child bridges that should actually be attached to a parent bridge is determined by usage and throughput needs. Figures illustrates and describes communication options between root and non-root bridges.

Whether configured as a root or a non-root device, a bridge can always communicate with other bridges through the RF. The bridge communicates with the wired network through the Ethernet port. Even when configured to operate in AP mode, the bridge can still pass network traffic through both the RF and Ethernet ports. This is one of the main differences between a Cisco Aironet bridge and access point, as shown in Figure .

There are six options for configuring the root state and related parameters on the BR350. These options correspond to the following six roles, which a bridge can assume in a LAN:

  • Root bridge
  • Non-root bridge with clients
  • Non-root bridge without clients
  • Root access point
  • Repeater access point
  • Site survey client

These six bridge roles are briefly described in Figures through .

Workgroup bridges, such as the WGB350, are small, stand-alone units that provide wireless infrastructure connections for up to eight Ethernet-enabled devices. A device connected to a bridge communicates with a network infrastructure through Cisco Aironet access points. The WGB can operate only in Non-root bridge without clients mode.

The 1400 can be set to root or non-root, or installation mode. The installation mode is used to help align the antennas. Also, since the 1400 operates on the UNII-3 – 5.725 GHz to 5.825 GHz frequencies, it cannot communicate with a .11a capable AP1200 which can operates at either:

  • UNII-1 – 5.15 GHz to 5.25 GHz (Four 802.11a Channels) Indoor only, 40 mW max with 6 dBi integrated antenna
  • UNII-2 – 5.25 GHz to 5.35 GHz (Four 802.11a Channels)

When the radio is capable of transmitting on UNII-1 and UNII-2 it must follow UNII-1 rules for transmit power and antenna gain. If the radio is UNII-2 only the radio can transmit at 200 mW and use removable antennas.

The 1400 can only operate outdoors only, 1 W max with 6 dBi antenna for point-to-multipoint and 23 dBi antenna for point-to-point. There are four available 802.11a channels.