US20070254714A1 - Wireless access point - Google Patents

Abstract

An access point device and access point system support wireless and wired communications. The access point includes a front face and a rear housing sized to fit within a conventional wall box, e.g., a single gang box. The electrical components associated with the access point device include a plurality of printed circuit boards that are configured in an H-shaped or U-shaped manner, such that they fit within the rear housing. Interface members are provided to facilitate communications between and among the printed circuit boards. At least one jack is provided in the front face of the access device for wired communication, and a plug is outwardly directed from the rear housing to facilitate network connection. Power for the access point device is supplied over a cable or conduit that engages the outwardly directed plug using Power-over-Ethernet (PoE) technology. The printed circuit boards include circuitry for managing operation of the access device and, in exemplary embodiments, includes power control circuitry to moderate potential heat generation.

Description

BACKGROUND
• 1. Technical Field
• The present disclosure is directed to access points for communication applications and, more particularly, to access points that include wireless functionality. The disclosed access points are generally sized for mounting in or with respect to a conventional wall box and, beyond the disclosed wireless functionality, additionally support one or more jack and/or connector based communication modalities.
• 2. Background Art
• In the field of communications, technological developments continue to drive the adoption of wireless technologies. For example, it has become commonplace for individuals to employ laptop computers with wireless communication capabilities to access and communicate across networks. Once wireless communication is established with a network, the laptop user can generally establish and/or engage in far reaching network-based communications, e.g., over local area networks, wide area networks, the Internet, etc. The backbone for such network-based communications, e.g., cabling, routers, switches, servers, nodes and the like, are generally known to persons skilled in the art.
• Turning specifically to the segment of the communication process that involves wireless communication between an electronic device, e.g., a laptop computer, and a network, e.g., a local-area network (LAN), a wide-area network (WAN), a campus-area network (CAN), a metropolitan-area network (MAN), a home-area network (HAN), and combinations and/or extensions thereof, the wireless connectivity is generally achieved through the transmission and receipt of radio waves and/or microwaves. The electronic device that is to communicate in a wireless fashion typically includes a network interface card (NIC) or like device to support the wireless exchange of data communications. NICs are frequently designed for a particular type of network, protocol and/or media, although some NICs support communications across multiple networks. At the receiving end of the wireless communication, an access point is typically required. The access point typically takes the form of a hardware device and/or computer software that acts as a communication hub for users of a wireless device to connect to a wired network, e.g., a LAN, WAN and/or the Internet.
• As used herein, the term “access point” encompasses a hardware device and/or associated software that acts as a communication hub for users of wireless devices to connect to a wired network. Conventional access points generally provide a predetermined level of security for wireless communications that pass through the access point, and extend the physical range of service to which a wireless user has access.
• The term “Wi-Fi” is short for wireless fidelity and is meant to encompass any type of 802.11 network, whether 802.11b, 802.11a, 802.11 g, dual-band, etc. The term “Wi-Fi” is currently promulgated by the Wi-Fi Alliance. Any products tested and approved as “Wi-Fi Certified” (a registered trademark) by the Wi-Fi Alliance are certified as interoperable with each other, even if they are from different manufacturers. Users with “Wi-Fi Certified” products can use any brand of access point with any other brand of client hardware that also is certified. Typically, however, any Wi-Fi product using the same radio frequency (e.g., 2.4 GHz for 802.11b or 802.11g, and 5 GHz for 802.11a) will work with any other, even if such products are not “Wi-Fi Certified.” The term “Wi-Fi” is further intended to encompass future versions and/or variations of the foregoing communication standards. Each of the foregoing standards is hereby incorporated by reference.
• A wireless access point thus functions as a bridge between a wired and a wireless network. Wireless access points function like a wireless hub connecting all the wireless devices together and then connecting them to a wired network. A wireless network access point is an essential part of a wireless network in that the access point facilitates connection to the Internet and/or another network. Many wireless access points are now built into wireless routers so that the features of a broadband router and a wireless access point are provided in one unit. Wireless access points generally have differing levels of performance, e.g., different wireless access points perform at varying data transmission speeds. Commercial manufacturers are producing units that offer wireless access functionality. Thus, for example, the NETGEAR (Santa Clara, Calif.) wireless access points have been built into broadband routers. LINKSYS (Irvine, Calif.), D-LINK (Fountain Valley, Calif.) and BELKIN (Compton, Calif.) also manufacture wireless broadband routers that include a built-in wireless access point. Ortronics, Inc. (New London, Conn.) has also offered a wireless access point, the Wi-Jack™, that offers wireless and non-wireless functionalities and is dimensioned/configured for mounting in and/or with respect to a conventional wall box, e.g., a single gang box.
• Wireless access points are also appearing in what may be termed “hot spots” in hotels, train stations and airports. These access points are making wireless Internet connectivity available to travelers/individuals who can connect to the Internet or a desired network, e.g., a corporate network via a virtual private network (VPN), through wireless communication technology.
• Existing 802.11 access points suffer from various limitations and/or drawbacks. For example, current Wi-Fi access points are generally bulky, need to be connected via a patch cord, and often require an external power cord. Moreover, conventional Wi-Fi access ports are difficult to integrate into a desired environment, and frequently result in a non-desirable and/or unacceptable physical presence in the desired environment.
• With reference to the patent literature, commonly assigned U.S. Patent Publication No. 2005/0152306 to Bonnassieux is directed to an advantageous Wi-Fi access point device and system. The disclosed access point facilitates integration of operative aspects of a Wi-Fi access point in a wall using, for example, standard switch and outlet boxes and/or standard wall plates. Wiring structures, such as a 110 block, may be incorporated into the disclosed access point to facilitate connection to a wired network. Further, integration of complementary connections within the access point is supported, for example, data, voice, video, CATV or other like connection types. The entire contents of the foregoing, commonly assigned patent publication are incorporated herein by reference.
• A second commonly assigned U.S. Patent Publication No. 2005/0152323 to Bonnassieux et al. discloses a plug-in Wi-Fi access point device and system. In this second patent publication, an access point device is provided that is configured for Wi-Fi communication that may be directly plugged into a face plate/workstation, thereby obviating the need for a patch cord. The disclosed plug-in functionality also offers security from removal by unauthorized personnel, non-obtrusiveness in relation to other face plate/workstation jacks, and the ability to be powered through an Ethernet connection to avoid the need for a separate power source. The disclosed plug-in Wi-Fi access point device includes a housing, Wi-Fi access point circuitry within the housing, and a connector mounted on a face of the housing for direct plug-in into an Ethernet jack of a face plate/workstation. A locking or self-locking mechanism, an integrated hub/switch/router, and the inclusion of at least one integrated voice, video and/or data jack for voice, video or data communication, are also disclosed. The entire contents of the foregoing, commonly assigned patent publication are incorporated herein by reference.
• U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,108,331 and 7,027,431 to Thompson discloses an access node or access port that has a plurality of physical connectors on the front face thereof for connection to a variety of signal-receiving and signal-transmitting devices. The Thompson access ports include RJ-45 connectors, RCA connectors, serial connectors, Ethernet connectors, and coaxial cable connectors. Conduits, i.e., signal-carrying media such as media converters, deliver signals to the access port. The signals are converted to and from addressed data packets carried in a packet stream over the conduits. Separate from the access port, a central node or node zero receives signals from outside sources, converts the signals to addressed data packets, and sends the packets over the conduit(s) as a packet stream to the access port. The access port/access node takes packets that are addressed to such access port/access node, converts the packets back into the original signals, then feeds the signals to appropriate connectors on the access port/access node. The Thompson access port/access node is also provided with a transceiver in wireless communication with another transceiver connected to a device outside the node using RF or infrared communication.
• Despite efforts to date, a need remains for improved access point designs and access point systems that provide effective wireless functionality, manage heat and power-related issues, and facilitate installation. In addition, a need remains for access point designs and access point systems that support both wireless and non-wireless communications in a compact geometry, e.g., a unit that is sized to mount, in whole or in part, with respect to a conventionally sized wall box. These and other needs are satisfied by the disclosed access point devices and systems, as will be apparent to persons skilled in the art from the description which follows.
SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE
• The present disclosure provides advantageous access points, access point systems, and access point-related components, subassemblies and support structures that, alone or in combination, support a host of communication applications. More particularly, the present disclosure provides advantageous access points that include/support wireless functionality, yet may be sized for mounting in or with respect to a conventional wall box. In addition to the noted wireless functionality, the disclosed access points and access point systems generally support one or more jack and/or connector based communication modalities.
• Thus, in a first exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, an access point is provided that includes a plurality of printed circuit boards arranged in a substantially H-shaped or U-shaped configuration. In an exemplary embodiment of the disclosed access point, three (3) printed circuit boards are provided within the access point, such printed circuit boards being in electronic communication with each other so as to provide requisite control and operational processing capabilities. Communication interface members are typically provided to facilitate electrical communication between adjacent circuit boards. According to exemplary embodiments, a jack is positioned in close proximity to the circuit boards and is accessible from the front face of the access point. Thus, a user is able to insert a plug into the jack to facilitate network-based communications. One or more antennae are provided in the access point to support wireless functionality. In addition, a further connector is typically provided to facilitate to permit connection of the access point to associated wired infrastructure. Thus, in an exemplary embodiment, an outwardly directed plug extends from the access point and facilitates communication with external sources, e.g., network-related communications and the like.
• In exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure, the outwardly directed connector takes the form of an outwardly/rearwardly directed plug that is advantageously formed from a printed circuit board and a plug housing. The circuit board is adapted to slide into the plug housing and become latched/locked therein. Thus, regardless of the overall size/dimensional characteristics of the circuit board, at least a portion or region of the circuit board is sized and dimensioned to cooperate with the plug housing in the manner described herein. A plurality of exposed contacts, e.g., eight, are provided on the printed circuit board, and such contacts are adapted to be exposed in channels defined by the plug housing. The exposed contacts are advantageously in electrical communication with the traces on the printed circuit board and, through such traces, with other electronic components associated with the disclosed access point. The circuit board/plug housing subassembly may be advantageously integrated into an access point design, as described herein, are employed independent therefrom, e.g., in connection with other electronic devices and/or assemblies.
• The circuit boards associated with the disclosed access points are adapted to support and manage the various functionalities of the access point, e.g., the receipt, processing and transmission of signals, power processing and management, and the generation of signals reflecting operative conditions and the like. The H-shaped or U-shaped configuration of the circuit boards disclosed herein permits advantageous space utilization and permits the disclosed access points to be utilized in conjunction with a conventional electrical box, e.g., a single gang wall box, while supporting a full range of access point functionalities, including the processing of both wireless and wired communications.
• In a further aspect of the present disclosure, an advantageous electrical box receptacle is disclosed. The receptacle defines an open corner region in the rear thereof. The open corner region facilitates wiring connections associated with electrical components that may be introduced thereto, e.g., access points of the type disclosed herein. Thus, for example, an outwardly/rearwardly directed plug associated with an exemplary access point of the present disclosure may engage a jack in the open corner region of the disclosed receptacle, thereby enhancing the ease of wiring and avoiding potential damage to the electrical components in the mating region.
• Additional advantageous features and functions of the disclosed devices, systems and methods will be apparent from the detailed description which follows, particularly when read in conjunction with the appended figures.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES
• To assist those of ordinary skill in the art in making, installing and using the disclosed access points and access point systems, including assemblies and subassemblies thereof, and exemplary wall receptacles for receipt and/or support of access point devices (and other communication devices), reference is made to the accompanying drawings, wherein:
• FIG. 1 is a front view of an exemplary access point device mounted with respect to a wall according to the present disclosure;
• FIG. 2 is a partially exploded view of an exemplary access point device according to the present disclosure;
• FIG. 3 is an exploded view of a second exemplary access point device and associated wall-mounting receptacle according to the present disclosure;
• FIG. 4 is a partially exploded front view of the second exemplary access point device and associated wall-mounting receptacle ofFIG. 3;
• FIG. 5 is a rear view of an exemplary access point device of the present disclosure;
• FIG. 6 is a side view of an exemplary printed circuit board and jack housing subassembly according to an aspect of the present disclosure;
• FIG. 7 is a rear plan view of an exemplary jack housing according to an aspect of the present disclosure; and
• FIG. 8 is a front plan view of the exemplary jack housing ofFIG. 7.
DESCRIPTION OF EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENT(S)
• As described herein with reference to exemplary embodiment(s), the present disclosure provides access points, access point systems and access point-related components, subassemblies and support structures that, alone or in combination, support a host of communication applications. The disclosed access points and access point systems include and/or support wireless functionality. Thus, in exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure, the disclosed access points include one or more antennae that are adapted to transmit and receive wireless communications. The disclosed access points also include a printed circuit board layout that supports, inter alia, the disclosed antennae and a full range of signal/data processing functionalities, e.g., Ethernet-based signal transmission/receipt functionalities. Power is delivered to the disclosed access point components through Power-over-Ethernet (PoE) techniques, as are known in the art.
• As used herein, “Power-over-Ethernet” or PoE technology refers to any system to transmit electrical power, along with data, to remote devices over standard twisted-pair cable in an Ethernet network. PoE technology is particularly useful for powering IP telephones, wireless LAN access points, webcams, Ethernet hubs, computers, and other appliances. Power-over-Ethernet is currently standardized in IEEE 802.3af. According to the IEEE 802.3af standard, 48 volts DC is provided over two pairs of a four-pair cable at a maximum current of 350 mA for a maximum load power of 15.4 watts. A modified standard that may increase power and/or current specifications is under discussion (IEEE 802.3 at). Before applying power, an IEEE 802.3af power source first determines if a remote device can accept power, and if so, which pairs should be used to supply it. If an open or a short circuit is detected, no power is applied so as to protect devices that do not support IEEE 802.3af and/or otherwise are not calling for power. The IEEE 802.3af standard is incorporated herein by reference.
• In exemplary embodiments of the disclosed access point, network communication is effected through a cable, cord or other data communication conduit that engages an outwardly directed plug associated with the disclosed access point. Exemplary plugs of the present disclosure include an integral printed circuit board which contributes to the support of the access point's functionality and, in disclosed embodiments, cooperates with one or more additional printed circuit boards positioned within the access point to provide such support. In exemplary embodiments, the plug is rearwardly directed from the access point housing and aligns with an opening defined in an advantageous receptacle, e.g., a receptacle that is adapted for wall mounting. The receptacle opening facilitates passage of one or more cables, wires, cords and/or other conduits and mating of such conduit with a connector associated with the access point, e.g., a rearwardly directed plug. Indeed, in an exemplary embodiment, a single cable/conduit is fed through the receptacle opening, such cable/conduit including a jack that is adapted to engage a rearwardly directed plug associated with the access point. In this way, installation/wiring of the disclosed access point is further facilitated.
• With reference toFIG. 1, anexemplary access point10 mounted to a wall “W” is depicted. Althoughaccess point10 is depicted in conjunction with a wall W, it is to be understood thataccess point10 may be mounted with respect to a variety of surfaces and structures, e.g., a ceiling, floor, cabinet, furniture console, desk, credenza and the like.Access point10 is substantially rectangular in geometry and thereby substantially conforms to the geometry of conventional wall boxes, e.g., a single gang wall box.Access point10 includes afront housing member12 that functions, in part, as a face-plate for the disclosed access point.Front housing member12 may defineradiused corners14 for enhanced aesthetics. First and second covers16,18 are mounted tofront housing member12 afteraccess point10 is mounted with respect to wall W, thereby covering the mounting screws and/or other mounting components used to secureaccess point10 with respect to wall W.
• A plurality of vent openings are generally defined in the front face offront housing member12 to facilitate cooling of the componentry positioned withinaccess point10. Thus, in the exemplary embodiment ofFIG. 1,front housing member12 includes a plurality of vertically spacedelongated vent slots20,22.Vent slots20 are positioned toward the top offront housing member12 adjacentfirst cover16, and ventslots22 are positioned therebelow, adjacentsecond cover18. Alternative venting arrangements may be implemented, as will be apparent to persons skilled in the art. Generally, vent openings are positioned so as to facilitate effective cooling air flow throughfront housing member12 and past the operative components positioned withinaccess point10.
• A plurality ofindicator windows24 are positioned on the front face offront housing member12.Indicator windows24 generally take the form of light passage elements and, as described with reference to the exploded view ofFIG. 3 below, may cooperate with light pipes and/or other structures, e.g., LEDs, to fulfill the signaling function contemplated therefor. Thus, in an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the disclosedaccess point10 includes internal circuitry and/or programming that generates light signal(s) in response to the receipt and/or transmission of data. As will be apparent to persons skilled in the art, the number, positioning and operation ofindicator windows24 may be varied based on the desired indicia/information to be communicated to system users.
• An RJ-45jack26 is also mounted with respect to and accessible at the front face offront housing member12.Jack26 may take a variety of forms, although a jack that meets high-end performance standards is preferred, e.g., a jack that is CAT 6, CAT 5e and/or CAT 5 compliant. As is well known in the art, RJ-45jack26 is adapted to receive/engage a corresponding plug (not pictured) for data communication therebetween. Althoughexemplary access point10 features a single RJ-45jack26, it is contemplated that one or more additional jacks/connectors may be accessible at the front face offront housing member12. Once a plug is mounted in RJ-45jack26, data and/or power may be transmitted to an electronic device associated with the plug, e.g., a computer, printer, server, or other device/instrument, based on PoE technology as described above. Although RJ-45jack26 is centrally positioned abovevent slots22, alternative location(s) may be selected on the front face offront housing member12, as will be apparent to persons skilled in the art. Generally, RJ-45jack26 is aligned withcavity108 of rear housing106 (as described below) so as to minimize the depth ofaccess point10 relative to the wall or other structure upon which it is mounted.
• Turning toFIG. 2, a partially exploded side view ofaccess point10 is provided.Covers16,18 are separated fromfront housing member12, thereby revealinginternal cavities28,30 and mountingapertures32,34, respectively. Screws or other mounting members (not pictured) generally cooperate with mountingapertures32,34 to detachablysecure access point10 with respect to a wall or other structure. In addition, exemplary edge features, e.g., mountingledges16a,18a, that facilitate detachable mounting ofcovers16,18 relative tofront housing member12 are apparent inFIG. 2.Front housing member12 also definesside walls36 that define a plurality of ventingnotches38. Ventingnotches38 further facilitate cooling air flow throughaccess point10, while simultaneously providing a pleasing aesthetic appearance to accesspoint10.
• A plurality (4) oflight delivery elements40 for cooperation withindicator windows24 on thefront housing member12 are assembled as a subassembly by positioning eachlight delivery element40 within a cooperative aperture inassembly plate42.Light delivery elements40 cooperate with corresponding light channels orLEDs44 that are mounted with respect to and are in electronic communication with a first printedcircuit board46 withinaccess point10.Assembly plate42 generally functions to facilitate handling and assembly of thelight delivery elements40 relative toindicator windows24 and LEDs/light channels44 ofexemplary access point10.
• With reference toFIGS. 2 and 6-8, first printedcircuit board46 cooperates with and is mounted to aplug housing52 to define aplug member50 at a rearward and/or outward portion ofaccess point10. Thus, with particular reference toFIGS. 6-8, exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure include an integrally defined printed circuit board and RJ-45 plug, such that data communication with the printed circuit board and the associated components ofaccess point10 is greatly facilitated. Of note and with particular reference toFIG. 6, printedcircuit board46 is schematically depicted therein for purposes of describing the interaction ofcircuit board46 withplug housing52. For illustration purposes, the full geometry and dimensional characteristics of exemplary printedcircuit board46 are not reflected inFIG. 6, as is apparent from a comparison withFIG. 2. However,FIGS. 6-8 are particularly useful in describing the assembly and operation ofexemplary plug housing52 and associated printedcircuit board46 to defineplug50.
• As best seen inFIGS. 7 and 8, plughousing52 is generally sized in a manner consistent with RJ-45 dimensional requirements and defines an internal cavity54. Printedcircuit board46 defines anupper portion48, the width of which is selected so as to cooperate with the internal width of cavity54. Internally steppedside walls56,58 define slidingsurfaces60,62 upon whichupper portion48 may slide when brought into engagement withplug housing52. A lockingstructure64 is positioned within cavity54 and includes a lockingtooth66 that is downwardly deflectable. With reference toFIG. 7, a corresponding lockingaperture68 is formed in theupper portion48 of printedcircuit board46.Top face70 ofplug housing52 defines eight (8) aligned channels for alignment with exposedcontacts74 formed on the end region of the printed circuit board'supper portion48. The exposedcontacts74 are in electrical communication with traces (not pictured) that traverse printedcircuit board46. Alower extension structure76 is formed on or byplug housing52, such that the overall geometry ofplug housing52 corresponds to a conventional RJ-45 geometry. Thus, when printedcircuit board46 is assembled withplug housing52, the exposed contacts of printedcircuit board46 are available for electrical communication with a corresponding jack, such that an advantageous RJ-45plug50 is defined by the combination ofcircuit board46 and plughousing52.
• To assemble an exemplary embodiment of the disclosed printed circuit board and plug housing so as to define an RJ-45 plug subassembly, a printed circuit board is generally provided having the following features/characteristics: (i) exposed contacts (8) that are configured and dimensioned to align with the slots formed in the plug housing, (ii) an appropriate width to slide in the region defined within the plug housing, e.g., between stepped side walls thereof, (iii) a thickness that will be accommodated, e.g., slide, within the plug housing, e.g., in the region defined between slide surfaces formed by stepped side walls and the top face of the plug housing, and (iv) a locking aperture formed in a location to cooperate/engage with a corresponding locking tooth formed in the plug housing. Alternative locking mechanisms/techniques may be employed to secure the printed circuit board with respect to the plug housing, as will be readily apparent to persons skilled in the art, e.g., detent features formed on the stepped side walls of the plug housing.
• Assembly ofexemplary plug50 generally involves sliding a printed circuit board along sliding surfaces defined by the stepped side walls ofplug housing52, with lockingtooth66 deflected downward. A rampedsurface65 is provided to facilitate downward deflection of lockingtooth66 ascircuit board46 is introduced to plughousing52. Once printedcircuit board46 is advanced to the desired location relative to plug housing52 (i.e., with the exposed contacts available for electrical communication with a corresponding RJ-45 jack), the lockingtooth66 is brought into alignment withaperture68 and deflects into engagement withsuch aperture68 formed in printedcircuit board46. In exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure, the printedcircuit board46 is approximately 1.6 mm in thickness (or less) in the region to be introduced to plughousing52. The portion of the plug housing cavity that is below the printed circuit board (i.e., opposite the exposed contacts) may accommodate additional electrical components that may be mounted to printedcircuit board46, e.g., component(s) for noise reduction and the like.
• With further reference to the exploded view ofFIG. 2, printedcircuit board46 contains only a portion of the circuitry required to support the function ofaccess port10. Thus, a pair of additional printedcircuit boards80,82 are in electrical communication with printedcircuit board46. Electrical communication between the traces on the respective printedcircuit boards46,80,82 is effected bycommunication interface members84,86. Thus, printedcircuit board46 is in electrical communication with printed circuit board80 (and vice versa) throughinterface member84. Similarly, printedcircuit board80 is in electrical communication with printed circuit board82 (and vice versa) through interface member86. Generally, printedcircuit boards46 and82 can only communicate with each other via intermediate printedcircuit board80. The three printed circuit boards define a substantially H-shape or U-shape configuration, withinterface members84,86 positioned within the confines of the H-shaped or U-shaped region.Intermediate circuit board80 is generally secured to the underside ofjack26, e.g., with a bolt, rivet or other attachment means96.
• Additional electrical components, e.g., capacitors, resistors, inductors, additional circuit board elements and the like, may be mounted with respect to one or more of the circuit boards. Such additional electronic components are schematically depicted bymembers90,92. Althoughmembers90,92 are unitary in appearance, it is to be understood that such schematic depictions encompass a host of individual electrical components, as will be readily apparent to persons skilled in the art. The close spatial relationship betweenjack26,circuit boards46,80,82 (jack26 is generally bounded by the three circuit boards) and additionalelectronic components90,92 facilitates efficient communication therebetween.
• A pair of antenna are generally associated withaccess device10 to support wireless communication functionalities. The antennae (not pictured) are generally secured to the inner face offront housing member12, thereby conserving space and positioning antennae for unobstructed communication with devices/transmitters positioned in the vicinity ofaccess point10. A variety of mounting techniques may be employed, e.g., the inclusion of guide slots/tracks on the inner face offront housing member12 to receive/secure each antenna. A screw/nut arrangement94 is used to secure leads that extend from the antennae with respect to printedcircuit boards46,82, respectively, although alternative means for achieved electrical connection between the antennae and the printed circuit boards may be employed. The antennae are generally of conventional design although, in exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure, the antennae advantageously provide dual band omni-directional functionalities that support communications pursuant to both IEEE 802.11b/g and 802.11a standards. IEEE 802.11 sets forth the general Wi-Fi communication standards and includes a series of amendments, namely the b, a, and g amendments to the original standard. The 802.11b and 802.11g standards use the 2.4 gigahertz (GHz) band, whereas the 802.11a standard uses the 5 GHz band.
• The antennae derive their power from the respective printedcircuit boards46,82. The requisite power is derived from the network to which the access point is connected as power-over-Ethernet. Thus, neither a separate power source nor a separate power cable is required to power the access point, including specifically the transceiving components thereof. Of note, in circumstances where both wireless communication modes are being called upon simultaneously (i.e., wireless communications are being received and/or transmitted at both 2.4 and 5 GHz) withinaccess point10, additional heat is typically generated due to the simultaneous operation of electronic components and circuitry associated with the processing of both communication modes. According to exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure, a temperature sensor (not pictured) is mounted with respect to at least one of thecircuit boards46,80,82. Control circuitry associated with the printed circuit board(s) monitors the temperature readings of the temperature sensor and, if the temperature reaches a predetermined threshold that may impact upon the stability and/or operation ofaccess point10, operations of the access point are restricted so as to reduce power draw/heat generation. Thus, in an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, if the control circuitry senses a temperature that exceeds the predetermined threshold, the speed with which the dual mode operations are processed may be moderated/reduced so as to reduce the power needs of access point, thereby reducing heat generation and the associated temperature internal to accesspoint10. Once the temperature drops below a second predetermined threshold, the control circuitry typically withdraws the previously implemented power restriction, thereby permitting theaccess point10 to return to full operation. Of note, the response of the control circuitry need not operate as a “step function”, but may moderate the power usage ofaccess point10 at a variable level based on algorithmic control functions associated with such control circuitry.
• Exemplary access point10 further includes arear plate98 that cooperates withfront housing member12 and generally corresponds to the rectangular geometry offront housing member12.Slots99 formed in theside walls97 ofrear plate98 cooperate with thecorresponding venting notches38 offront housing member12 to promote air flow and the overall aesthetic appearance ofexemplary access point10.Screws102 cooperate withapertures100 and securerear plate98 with respect tofront housing member12, thereby encasing the operative components ofaccess point10 therewithin. Arear housing106 is mounted with respect torear plate98 by a bolt/flange arrangement104 or other connection means. Alternatively,rear housing106 may be integrally formed withrear plate98, e.g., through an appropriate molding operation.
• Rear housing106 is configured and dimensioned to fit within a conventional wall box, i.e., a single gang box. Despite the geometric and dimensional constraints placed onrear housing106, acavity108 is defined byrear housing106 that is of sufficient size/volume to accommodate operative components ofaccess point10, including specifically the threecircuit boards46,80,82, the additionalelectronic components90,92, at least the rearward portion ofjack26, and the rearwardly directedplug50. As noted previously, the antennae are generally mounted to thefront housing member12 and, as such, are not received withincavity108. In addition, the overall internal layout and geometry ofaccess point10 is effective to achieve desired air flow/cooling to avoid issues associated with potential overheating of components. In exemplary embodiments, heat management is further achieved through the temperature sensor and control circuitry associated with the printed circuit board(s).
• In use,access point10 is assembled in the manner shown inFIG. 2, withjack26 exposed at the front and plug50 exposed in the rear. A cable, conduit or other appropriate wiring is fed to the electrical box that is to receive the access point, e.g., a wall box. The cable/conduit is provided with an RJ-45 jack so as to mate with the outwardly/rearwardly directedplug50 associated with the disclosedaccess point10. The cable/conduit is also generally in electrical communication with one or more network components, e.g., one or more switches, routers, servers and the like. In an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the cable/conduit is in communication with, inter alia, a wireless controller, e.g., a mobility controller available from Aruba Networks (Sunnyvale, Calif.), so as to support wireless communications by and throughaccess point10.
• Once the cable/conduit is electrically connected to the access point by engagingplug50 with the associated jack, therear housing106 is generally advanced into the electrical box such that therear plate98 is brought into contact with the wall or other surface with respect to which it is being mounted.Access point10 is then typically mounted with respect to the standard mounting apertures on the electrical box, thecovers16,18 are snapped into place, and theaccess point10 is ready for operation. Users can snap an RJ-45 plug intojack26 and/or engage in wireless communication viaaccess point10, thereby gaining network access in a wireless manner. In exemplary embodiments, users are able to engage in wireless communications at both 2.4 GHz (IEEE 802.11b/g) and 5 GHz (IEEE 802.11a).
• In operation, the printedcircuit boards46,80,82 generally provide the circuitry to support operation ofaccess point10, including specifically: (i) the receipt and processing of data transmissions transmitted from a cable/jack that is connected with outwardly/rearwardly directed RJ-45plug50, e.g., data input from an associated network and wireless control system, (ii) the delivery of the data transmissions to the RJ-45jack26, (iii) the wireless transmission and receipt of data by way of the antennae, (iv) the processing of power received from the cable/jack connected to RJ-45plug50, i.e., power-over-Ethernet, (v) the control ofindicators40,44, (vi) temperature control operations, and (vii) related processing operations.
• Turning toFIGS. 3 and 4, a secondexemplary access point110 is schematically depicted in exploded form. To the extent components and/or features associated withaccess point110 may be associated with a corresponding component and/or feature ofaccess point10, such component/feature has been identified by a designation incremented by 100. Thus,access point110 includes afront housing member112 that includes internal cavities that are adapted to be obscured bycovers116,118.Screws133,135 may be used to mountaccess point112 with respect toreceptacle300, as described in greater detail below.Vent slots120 are formed infront housing member112 and are of a substantially arcuate configuration. As noted previously, alternative venting slot configurations may be employed, e.g., for aesthetic purposes, as will be apparent to persons skilled in the art.
• With particular reference toFIG. 4,access point112 includes three printedcircuit boards146,180,182 that are adapted to be assembled in a substantially H-shaped or U-shaped configuration.Communication interface members184,186 facilitate electrical communication betweencircuit boards180,182 andcircuit boards146,180, respectively.Light pipe140 transmits signal illumination to an indicator location on the face offront housing member140 and, in exemplary embodiment, sits on or in close juxtaposition to an LED positioned on one of thecircuit boards146,180,182. In the exemplary embodiment ofFIGS. 3 and 4, a single indicator is employed, rather than the multiple indicators disclosed with reference toexemplary access point10. Additionalelectrical components190,192 are mounted with respect to printedcircuit boards146,182, respectively. As shown with respect to printedcircuit board182, such additionalelectrical components192 may be mounted on either side (or both sides) thereof.
• A pair ofantennae201,203 are mounted to the internal side offront housing member112 in a spaced manner, i.e., with one toward the left side offront housing member112 and the other toward the right side offront housing member112. Mountingchannels205 are defined on the inner side offront housing member112 to accommodate the antennae, although alternative mounting techniques may be employed, as will be readily apparent to persons skilled in the art. Eachantenna201,203 includes a connectingmember207,209, respectively, for effecting electrical communication between the antenna and the printedcircuit boards146,180,182. As withaccess point10 described above, theantennae201,203 are advantageously adapted to transmit and receive wireless communication in dual-mode, i.e., at both 2.4 GHz (IEEE 802.11b/g) and 5 GHz (IEEE 802.11a).
• As withaccess point10 described above, thecircuit boards146,180,182 and associated components, e.g.,interface members184,186,electrical components190,192 andjack126, ofaccess point110 is advantageously effected within the dimensions and geometry of a conventional electrical box, e.g., a one-gang wall box. Thus,access point110 includes arear housing206 that is configured and dimensioned to fit within such electrical box, and the noted access point components may be advantageously positioned therewithin.
• As withaccess point10, the alternativeexemplary access point110 is effective in supporting network-based communications, e.g., in a wired form viajack126 and/or in a wireless form via the wireless functionality supported byantennae201,203 and the associated circuitry/capabilities associated withaccess point110. Power is supplied to accesspoint110 in a PoE form, i.e., it is delivered to accesspoint110 over the cable/conduit in electrical communication with outwardly/rearwardly directedplug150. Signal, power and related processing management functions are achieved by the printedcircuit boards146,180,182 (and associatedelectrical components190,192).
• With further reference toFIGS. 3 and 4, anadvantageous receptacle300 is schematically depicted.Receptacle300 includes abase306,side walls308,310,top face302 andrear wall304. Upper and lower mounting apertures/flanges316,314 are defined byreceptacle300 to facilitate interaction with an electrical device, e.g., anaccess point10,110. Unlike conventional electrical receptacles, however, receptacle300 defines anopen corner region312 that facilitates engagement of a plug/jack, e.g., plug150 ofaccess point110, and jack400 (seeFIG. 4). Thus, theopen corner region312 ofexemplary receptacle300 is defined byincomplete side wall308, incompleterear wall304, and incompletetop face302, such that a block-shaped open region is defined.
• Receptacle300 is particularly advantageous for use withexemplary access points10,110 because, inter alia, the outwardly/rearwardly projectingplug50,150 protrudes into and/or aligns with theopen corner region312 ofreceptacle300. As shown in the rear view ofFIG. 5, plug50 (which, for present purposes, is identical to plug150) protrudes into a block-like cavity region. The block-like cavity region defined at the rear of and external to accesspoint10 substantially corresponds to theopen corner region312 defined byreceptacle300. Due to this geometric and dimensional correspondence, access to plug50,150 is greatly facilitated and connection to a jack, e.g.,jack400, can be accomplished with ease and without potential damage to either the plug or jack assemblies, e.g., damage caused by aggressive manipulation and/or bending.
• In sum, the present disclosure provides advantageous access point devices, access point systems and associated assemblies, subassemblies and support structures. Although the devices, systems and methods of the present disclosure have been described with reference to exemplary embodiments thereof, the present disclosure is not limited to or by such exemplary embodiments. Rather, the devices, systems and methods of the present disclosure may be subjected to various enhancements, modifications and/or variations without departing from the spirit or scope of the present disclosure. Accordingly, the scope of the present disclosure is expressly intended to encompass such enhancements, modifications and/or variations within the scope of the claims set forth herein.

Claims (20)

1. An access point, comprising:

a. a front face;

b. a rear housing that is detachably mounted with respect to the front face; and

c. electrical components that support data communication operations positioned in the region between the front face and the rear housing;

wherein the electrical components include a plurality of printed circuit boards in an H-shaped or U-shaped configuration.

2. An access point according toclaim 1, wherein the front face includes a front housing member and a rear plate.

3. An access point according toclaim 1, wherein the electrical components further includes at least one jack, and wherein the at least one jack is mounted with respect to the front face.

4. An access point according toclaim 3, wherein the at least one jack is positioned within the H-shaped or U-shaped configuration of the plurality of printed circuit boards.

5. An access point according toclaim 1, wherein the electrical components further includes a plurality of antennae.

6. An access point according toclaim 5, wherein the plurality of antennae includes a first antenna and a second antenna, and wherein the first and second antenna are mounted with respect to the front face.

7. An access point according toclaim 5, wherein the plurality of antennae includes a first antenna and a second antenna, and wherein each of said first and second antennae are adapted to process wireless communications in the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz transmission bands.

8. An access point according toclaim 1, wherein the electrical components further includes a first interface member and a second interface member.

9. An access point according toclaim 8, wherein the plurality of printed circuit boards includes a first printed circuit board, a second printed circuit board and a third printed circuit board, and wherein the first interface member effects electrical communication between the first and second printed circuit boards, and wherein the second interface members effects electrical communication between the second and third printed circuit boards.

10. An access point according toclaim 1, wherein the plurality of printed circuit boards includes temperature control circuitry.

11. An access point according toclaim 10, wherein the temperature control circuitry is effective to reduce power usage of the plurality of printed circuit boards to reduce heat generation based upon predetermined temperature criterion.

12. An access point according toclaim 1, wherein the plurality of printed circuit boards includes three printed circuit boards, wherein the electrical components further includes at least one RJ-45 jack, and wherein the three printed circuit boards and a rear portion of the at least one RJ-45 jack are configured and dimensioned to fit within a cavity defined by the rear housing.

13. An access point according toclaim 12, wherein the rear housing is configured and dimensioned to fit within a single gang wall box.

14. An access point according toclaim 1, wherein the electrical components further includes a plug that is outwardly or rearwardly directed relative to the rear housing.

15. An access point according toclaim 14, wherein the plug is defined by a portion of one of the plurality of printed circuit boards and a plug housing.

16. An access point system, comprising:

a. an access point device that includes (i) a front face, (ii) a rear housing that is detachably mounted with respect to the front face, and (iii) electrical components that support data communication operations positioned in the region between the front face and the rear housing, the electrical components including a plurality of printed circuit boards in an H-shaped or U-shaped configuration; and

b. a conduit in electrical communication with the access point.

17. An access point system according toclaim 16, wherein the access point device supports wireless communications.

18. An access point system according toclaim 16, wherein power required to operate the access point device is supplied over the conduit with data communication signals.

19. An access point system according toclaim 16, wherein the access point device is mounted with respect to a receptacle that includes an open corner region, and wherein the conduit passes through the open corner region.

20. An access point system according toclaim 16, wherein the access point device includes a pair of antennae mounted with respect to the front face, and wherein the antennae and plurality of printed circuit boards are effective for wireless communications at both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz transmission bands.

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