FasCard Satellite Access Point (SAP)
This page is intended to provide the reader with generalized details and functions of the Satellite Access Point (SAP) utilized in all FasCard & FLEX systems.
General information
The Satellite Access Point (SAP) acts as a bridge between the FasCard readers, Internet, and FasCard Administration Site. To connect these components together, the SAP contains two ethernet ports intended for wired Internet communication and an internal wireless antenna that communicates with the FasCard readers. The SAP is more than an average Wireless Access Point (WAP) in that it provides valuable location status information to the FasCard Admin Site dynamically. Meaning, it doesn't have to be manually updated.
Each FasCard location must have a minimum of one (1) SAP to function properly. Multiple SAPs can be used to extend the wireless coverage area or provide redundancy. As many as 110 card readers can be managed by a single SAP, although there are various factors where more SAPs may be required. The current wireless range of an individual SAP is approximately 90 feet, providing coverage in a 180-foot diameter around the SAP. While the wireless signal will operate through walls and objects, signal strength may be degraded and interference from sources generating strong electromagnetic fields is also likely to create issues.
SAP install site
CCI recommends installing the SAP on the ceiling or high up on a pillar, located in the middle of most (or all) readers and Kiosks to provide even coverage.
The SAP can be powered either by a Power over Ethernet (PoE) adapter or a standard 12VDC adapter. The former eliminates the need to install a wall receptable, or other power source, at the SAPs install site. Power for the SAP is delivered through a Cat5 Ethernet cable that connects the device to the local internet connection by way of the PoE adapter utilized during installation. The 12VDC adapter is shorter in length, and will require a power source of sorts to be as close as possible to the SAPs install site.
Important Information About the Satellite Device
The FasCard SAP (Mikrotik 951G-2HnD) device can accept power through its power jack or through the first Ethernet port:
The DC power jack accepts 8-30V DC.
The DC power accepts a 5.5mm outside diameter, 2mm inside diameter, female, pin positive plug.
The first Ethernet port accepts passive Power over Ethernet (PoE) 8-30V DC.
The 951G-2HnD SAP does not support PoE+ or PoE++ which typically supplies 48V DC.
Attempting to power a 951G-2HnD SAP with anything over its maximum rated acceptable input voltage of 30V DC may harm the device.
Under maximum load, the power consumption of this device is 7W.