Get to Know Your Cisco Wireless Access Point (AP)

This document describes the Cisco wireless access points (APs) - or network radios - that provide wireless network access throughout the NPS district. Wireless APs mounted to the ceiling or wall support the NPS district wireless network. You should not attempt to move, modify, or service these devices. The information provided here is intented for use by those who have been provided a mobile AP for a wireless computer cart. If you need to set up a computer for the NPS wireless network you should refer to our Wireless Setup page.

Opeing the Access Point Cover ------> click to enlarge <------

Opening the AP Cover

  1. Position the wireless access point (AP) in front of you with the white top cover face up. The metal side should be face down.
  2. If necessary, rotate the AP so the label in the center is readable (right-side up). The cable access notch should be facing you.
  3. Place your thumbs on the edge of the white top cover and gently push upwards towards the Status LED (the ring-light in the middle of the cover).
  4. Continue to slowly slide the cover back until you reach the cover stop (approximately 2 inches).

Access Point Connections Diagram --------> click to enlarge <--------

The AP Connections

Connect the AP to a network outlet before you power it on!  If an access point is powered on but not connected to the network it could hijack nearby computers and prevent them from connecting to the NPS network.

The network connection (labelled "2" in the diagram to the right) is immediately to the right of the power connection. Please note: Although there are two connections that will accomodate a network cable you should only use the one next to the power connection (the ethernet port). You should not use the console port or the mode button; They are used for programming the access point.

The left-most connector (labelled "1" in the diagram) accomodates the AC power adapter. The district access points (APs) permanently mounted to the ceiling or wall are typically powered via the network cable. Most mobile access points - such as those on notebook computer carts - will require the AC adapter.

All cables should run through the hole in the bottom of the AP and/or through the cable access notch (shown in the diagram near the top of this page). You should not run cables out the top of the access point or you will not be able to close the white access point cover. You should avoid running the cables through the keyhole slot (labelled "3" in the diagram).

The Security Hasp Adapter ----> click to enlarge <----

Security Hasp Adapter

The cable connections may or may not be covered by a metal plate called the security hasp adapter. This plate protects the connectors and prevents the power connector from coming loose accidentally. To remove the plate, lift it from the right side and slowly pull it upwards and to the right to remove it from the tab holding it in place on the left side.

To replace the plate you reverse this procedure: Put the left side of the plate in first - fitting the slot on the left side of the security hasp adapter over the tab to the left of the cable connections. Then slowly lower the right side of the plate into place taking care to not crimp the power or network cables below.

Status LED Colors

The Status LED is the ring light in the center of the white access point cover. It is a little like the mood ring for your AP; it changes colors to let you know its status. When the AP is powered off or the white access point cover is open the Status LED will be dark (unlit). When the AP is powered on the Status LED goes through several colors for almost two minutes as it runs through several internal tests. After the AP has been on for at least two minutes the light should settle into one of the colors below:

  • Pale Green indicates the AP is ready to accept a wireless connection but there are currently no devices connected to it.
  • Blue indicates at least one device (computer, PDA, etc.) currently has a wireless connection to the AP.
  • Blinking Blue indicates a software upgrade is in progress.
  • Amber or Red indicates the AP has a problem. You should submit a Technology Work Request (TWR) if an AP Status LED is amber or red after it has been on for more than two minutes. If the Status LED is dark and the white access point cover is closed then the AP is not receiving power. If your other AC-powered devices and your wired network are functioning normally then a dark Status LED is also cause for a TWR. Please remember to mention the Status LED color (or dark) and location of the AP in your request.

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This page last updated September 29, 2006. We have made every reasonable attempt to insure that our web pages are educationally sound and do not contain links to materials that violate the Norman Public School District's Policies on Internet and Internet Safety for the Computer Network. Opinions expressed on these web pages do not necessarily reflect those of the Norman Public School District. For more information concerning this site please email webmaster@norman.k12.ok.us.