Hello. This looks like a smart group at this forum. I am an AMX programmer and I design and install high end residential automation and integrated systems.
My typical network install is based around Sonicwall TZ firewalls, ProCurve Switches, and 2-5 APs (lately Engenius APs). I have also used Procurve APs and Netgear Pro APs. We do a lot of wireless touch panels for controlling functions in the houses so roaming and reliability is VERY important.
When using AMX branded wireless panels I have had good luck with the basic process of setting all APs to the same SSID and using proper channel separation. We have started to make the shift to utilize Apple iPads and iPods as the main wireless controllers and they do not roam well with this type of setup.
I am starting to look into a managed wireless system and I am quickly realizing the amount of networking that I don't know.
Some of the products I have been looking into include:
Netgear WMS5316 with their wireless-N APs (not sure about reliability or real time hand offs)
Ubiquiti Unifi (not sure of pricing or if I need a computer running the software 24/7 in the rack)
Ruckus Wireless (this has been licensed by AMX so it will be fully supported, but expensive)
SonicWall Sonic Points (I have found the wireless built into the TZ products to be abysmal and not usable, so I am leery to try these)
What are the thoughts from the pros? I am not afraid of spending money on these solutions, but I want to be sure I understand all of the benefits and that I am able to provide rock solid solutions that work very well.
Let me know what I need to learn more about, what features the systems need, and if it is more cost effective to go the CCNA route to get into Cisco products (only if there are huge performance benefits for the same price range as the above).
Thanks for the help and I hope I put this in the correct forum.
-Pete
My typical network install is based around Sonicwall TZ firewalls, ProCurve Switches, and 2-5 APs (lately Engenius APs). I have also used Procurve APs and Netgear Pro APs. We do a lot of wireless touch panels for controlling functions in the houses so roaming and reliability is VERY important.
When using AMX branded wireless panels I have had good luck with the basic process of setting all APs to the same SSID and using proper channel separation. We have started to make the shift to utilize Apple iPads and iPods as the main wireless controllers and they do not roam well with this type of setup.
I am starting to look into a managed wireless system and I am quickly realizing the amount of networking that I don't know.
Some of the products I have been looking into include:
Netgear WMS5316 with their wireless-N APs (not sure about reliability or real time hand offs)
Ubiquiti Unifi (not sure of pricing or if I need a computer running the software 24/7 in the rack)
Ruckus Wireless (this has been licensed by AMX so it will be fully supported, but expensive)
SonicWall Sonic Points (I have found the wireless built into the TZ products to be abysmal and not usable, so I am leery to try these)
What are the thoughts from the pros? I am not afraid of spending money on these solutions, but I want to be sure I understand all of the benefits and that I am able to provide rock solid solutions that work very well.
Let me know what I need to learn more about, what features the systems need, and if it is more cost effective to go the CCNA route to get into Cisco products (only if there are huge performance benefits for the same price range as the above).
Thanks for the help and I hope I put this in the correct forum.
-Pete