Aruba 303H Series Hospitality Access Points

Installation Guide

The Aruba 303H Series access point is a high-performance dual-radio wireless device designed for hospitality and branch deployments. It utilizes Multiple-Input, Multiple-Output (MIMO) technology to provide secure wireless connectivity for both 2.4GHz 802.11 b/g/n and 5GHz 802.11 a/n/ac WiFi networks. The device also features wired Ethernet ports on the bottom, allowing direct connection via an Ethernet cable. The 303H Series access point can be mounted to a standard single-gang wall box using the provided bracket, or it can be converted into a desk-mounted remote access point for branch office deployments using the AP-303H-MNTD mount kit (sold separately).

The 303H Series access point offers the following capabilities:

• IEEE 802.11a/b/g/n/ac operation as a wireless access point
• IEEE 802.11a/b/g/n/ac operation as a wireless air monitor
• Compatibility with IEEE 802.3af/at PoE
• Central management configuration
• Supports PoE-in (E0 port) and PoE-out (E3 port)
• Support for selected USB peripherals
• Integrated Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) radio

Package Contents

• 303H Series Access Point
• Single gang wall-box mounting bracket
• (2x) #6-32 slotted screws
• T8H Torx security screw

Hardware Overview

The following sections outline the hardware components of the 303H Series access point.

Figure 1: 303H Series (front view)

The front of the access point features status LEDs for System Status, Radio Status, and PoE-PSE Status.

LED Status Indicators

System Status LED

The System Status LED indicates the operating condition of the access point.

¹ blinking: 1s on/1s off
² flashing: on/off repeated in less than 1s

Radio Status LED

The Radio Status LED indicates the operating mode of the access point's radios.

Network Status LEDs (E1-E3)

The Network Status LEDs, located on the sides of the E1-E3 ports, indicate activity transmitted to/from the wired ports.

PoE-PSE Status LED (E3)

The PoE-PSE LED, located above the E3 port, indicates when the access point is operating as Power Sourcing Equipment (PSE), providing Power over Ethernet (PoE) to an external device connected to the E3 port by Ethernet cable.

LED Display Settings

The LEDs have three operating modes selectable in the system management software:

• Default mode: Refer to Tables 1-3
• Off mode: LEDs are off
• Blink mode: LEDs blink green

Ports and Connectors

Figure 2: 303H Series (rear view)

The rear of the access point shows the Micro-B console port and Ethernet ports (E0, Pass-Through/PT).

Console Port

The 5-pin Micro-B connector on the back of the device is used for direct management via a laptop or serial console using an AP-CBL-SERU cable. Refer to Figure 3 for pin-out details.

Figure 3: Console Port Pin-out

The console port pin-out is as follows: 1: NC, 2: RX, 3: TX, 4: GND, 5: GND.

Ethernet Ports

The 303H Series access point is equipped with four active Ethernet ports (E0/PT-E3), shown in Figure 4.

Figure 4: 303H Series (bottom view)

The bottom view shows the Ethernet ports labeled E0/PT, E1, E2, and E3.

The E0/PT port is a 10/100/1000Base-T, auto-sensing, MDI/MDX wired-network uplink connectivity RJ45 port. It supports IEEE 802.3af/802.3at PoE as a standard Powered Device (PD) from Power Sourcing Equipment (PSE). The E1-E3 ports are 10/100/1000Base-T auto-sensing, MDI/MDX wired-network downlink connectivity RJ45 ports, used for connecting wired devices. The E3 port also supports PoE-out functionality, capable of supplying up to 15.4W when the access point operates in 802.3at PoE mode or is powered by a DC source.

Figure 5: Gigabit Ethernet Port Pin-Out

This diagram illustrates the pin configuration for a Gigabit Ethernet port, including assignments for data transmission (ETH Tx+/-, ETH Rx+/-) and PoE (positive/negative) on specific pins and spare pairs.

USB Interface

The access point is equipped with a USB port compatible with cellular modems and Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) dongles. When active, the USB port can supply up to 5W/1A to a connected device.

Figure 6: 303H Series Side View

The side view highlights the DC power socket, USB port, reset button, and security screw lock.

Push Button

The push button on the right side of the device can be used to reset the access point to factory default settings or to turn the LED display off/on.

• To reset to factory defaults: Power off the access point, then press and hold the push button with a small object (like a paperclip). Power the access point back on without releasing the button. The system status LED will flash within 5 seconds, indicating the reset is in progress. Release the button. The LED will flash again within 15 seconds upon completion.
• To turn off/on LED display: During normal operation, briefly press and release the push button with a small object.

Power

The 303H Series access point supports up to 48V DC using an AP-AC-48V36C power adapter (sold separately). The power connector is on the side of the device. The PoE-in (PoE-PD) allows the E0/PT port to draw power from an 802.3at (preferred) or 802.3af (optional) source. When powered by 802.3at or DC, the E3 port enables PoE-out (PoE-PSE) functionality, supplying up to 15.4W. PoE-PSE and USB settings can be managed via the software's WebUI and CLI.

Before You Begin

Refer to the sections below before beginning the installation process.

Pre-Installation Checklist

Before installing the 303H Series access point, ensure you have the following:

• Pre-installed wall box
• Cat5E UTP cable with network access installed in the wall box
• One of the following power sources:
  
  • IEEE 802.3af/at-compliant Power over Ethernet (PoE) source
  • Aruba AP AC-DC adapter kit (sold separately)
• One of the following network services:
  
  • Aruba Discovery Protocol (ADP)
  • DNS server with an "A" record
  • DHCP Server with vendor-specific options

Identifying Specific Installation Locations

The 303H Series access point must be secured to an Aruba-approved wall or desk mount kit. It should be oriented vertically with Ethernet ports facing downward for optimal antenna gain. Use the access point placement map generated by Aruba's RF Plan software to determine proper installation locations. Each location should be as close as possible to the center of the intended coverage area and free from obstructions or obvious sources of interference, as these can impact RF propagation.

Identifying Known RF Absorbers/Reflectors/Interference Sources

It is critical to identify known RF absorbers, reflectors, and interference sources during installation. Consider these factors when attaching the access point:

• RF absorbers include: Cement/concrete (especially new concrete), natural items (fish tanks, plants), and brick.
• RF reflectors include: Metal objects such as metal pans, rebar, fire doors, air conditioning/heating ducts, mesh windows, blinds, chain link fences, refrigerators, racks, shelves, and filing cabinets. Avoid placing the access point between air conditioning/heating ducts; position it below ducts to prevent RF disturbances.
• RF interference sources include: Microwave ovens, cordless phones (2.4 or 5 GHz), and cordless headsets used in call centers or lunch rooms.

Installing the Access Point

The 303H Series is designed to mount into various electrical gang boxes. All Aruba access points should be professionally installed by an Aruba-Certified Mobility Professional (ACMP). The installer is responsible for ensuring proper grounding and compliance with applicable national and electrical codes. Improper installation may result in physical injury or property damage.

Follow these steps to install your 303H Series:

1. Begin by removing the existing data wall plate, if applicable.
2. Remove any existing RJ45 connectors or cut/remove the UTP cable.
3. Use a short Ethernet cable (sold separately) to connect the E0 port to an RJ45 connector. If using the PT port, do the same. Alternatively, crimp an RJ45 plug (not supplied) onto the cable and insert it into the E0 port.
4. Align the mounting holes of the 303H Series mounting bracket with the mounting holes in your gang box, as shown in Figure 7 and Figure 8. For worldwide single gang outlet boxes, the mounting bracket has two sets of mounting holes to accommodate different installation positions. The applicable standards for wall boxes are: IEC 60670-1, GB17466, BS4662 and DIN49073 (Worldwide); ANSI/NEMA OS 1 and OS 2 (US).

Figure 7: Bracket to Gang Box (US Single Gang Outlet Box Shown)

This illustration shows the mounting bracket being aligned with a US single gang outlet box.

Figure 8: Bracket to Gang Box (Worldwide Single Gang Outlet Box Shown)

This illustration shows the mounting bracket being aligned with a worldwide single gang outlet box.

5. Insert the two included machine screws and tighten to secure the mounting bracket.
6. Connect any required cables to the back of the 303H Series.
7. Align the mounting slots on the back of the 303H Series with the corresponding mounting posts on the wall mount, as shown in Figure 9.
8. Push the access point against the posts and downward until the posts engage the slots at the top.

Figure 9: Attaching 303H Series to Bracket

This illustration demonstrates how to align and attach the access point to the wall mount bracket.

9. Once the access point is fastened onto the wall mount, insert the T8H Torx security screw into the hole on the right side of the wall mount and tighten.
10. (Optional) Connect the AC-DC power adapter (sold separately) to the DC power socket on the right side of the 303H Series.

Verifying Post-Installation Connectivity

The integrated LEDs on the access point can be used to verify that it is receiving power and initializing successfully (refer to Table 1). For more details on verifying post-installation network connectivity, consult the ArubaOS Quick Start Guide.

Electrical and Environmental Specifications

For additional specifications, please refer to the product data sheet at www.arubanetworks.com/safety_addendum.

Electrical

• Ethernet: 100/1000 Base-T auto-sensing Ethernet RJ45 interface. Supports IEEE 802.3u (100 Base-T) and IEEE 802.3ab (1000 Base-T).
• Power over Ethernet: Supports IEEE 802.3at (56VDC nominal) and 802.3af (48VDC maximum).
• Power: Supports 48VDC power input via an AP-AC-48V36C power cable. Maximum power consumption with a full PoE-PSE and USB load is 25W (PoE) or 31W (DC).

Environmental

• Operating:
  
  • Temperature: 0°C to +40°C (+32°F to +104°F)
  • Humidity: 5% to 93% non-condensing
• Storage and transport:
  
  • Temperature: -40°C to +70°C (-40°F to +158°F)

Proper Disposal of Aruba Equipment

Dispose of Aruba products according to local regulations. For the most current information on Global Environmental Compliance and Aruba products, visit www.arubanetworks.com.

Regulatory Information

The regulatory model name for the 303H Series/IAP-303H access point is APINH303. Aruba provides a multi-language document with country-specific restrictions and additional safety and regulatory information for all Aruba access points, available for viewing or download at www.arubanetworks.com.

FCC Compliance

Improper termination of access points installed in the United States configured to a non-US model controller violates the FCC grant of equipment authorization. Such violations may result in termination of operation and forfeiture (47 CFR 1.80). Network administrators are responsible for ensuring the device operates in accordance with local/regional laws.

RF Radiation Exposure Statement

This equipment complies with FCC RF radiation exposure limits. It should be installed and operated with a minimum distance of 10.63 inches (27cm) between the radiator and the body for 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz operations. This transmitter must not be co-located or operating in conjunction with any other antenna or transmitter. Operation in the 5.15 to 5.25 GHz frequency range is restricted to indoor use to reduce potential interference with co-channel Mobile Satellite Systems.

Déclaration sur les limites d'exposition aux radiofréquences: Cet équipement est conforme aux limites d'exposition aux rayonnements radioélectriques spécifiées par la FCC. Il doit être installé et utilisé à une distance minimale de 27 cm par rapport au corps pour les fréquences de 2,4 et 5 GHz. Cet émetteur-récepteur ne doit pas être utilisé ou situé à proximité d'autres antennes ou émetteurs-récepteurs. En cas d'utilisation dans la plage de fréquences de 5,15 à 5,25 GHz, cet appareil doit uniquement être utilisé en intérieur afin de réduire les risques d'interférence avec les systèmes satellites mobiles partageant le même canal.

Canada Compliance

User manuals for licence-exempt radio apparatus must contain the following text, or an equivalent notice displayed conspicuously: "This device complies with Industry Canada's licence-exempt RSSs. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) This device may not cause interference; and (2) This device must accept any interference, including interference that may cause undesired operation of the device." This digital apparatus complies with Canadian Class B interference-causing equipment requirements.

Déclaration d'Industrie Canada: Conformément aux réglementations d'Industrie Canada, cet émetteur-récepteur radio doit être utilisé uniquement avec une antenne dont le type et le gain maximal doivent être approuvés par Industrie Canada. Pour réduire les interférences radio potentielles, le type d’antenne et son gain doivent être choisis de façon à ce que la puissance isotrope rayonnée équivalente (PIRE) ne dépasse pas les valeurs nécessaires à une communication efficace. Ce périphérique est conforme aux règlements RSS exempts de licence d'Industrie Canada. L’utilisation de ce périphérique est soumise aux deux conditions suivantes : (1) ce périphérique ne doit pas provoquer d’interférences, et (2) ce périphérique doit accepter toute interférence, y compris les interférences susceptibles de provoquer un dysfonctionnement.

Medical Equipment Considerations

1. Equipment not suitable for use in the presence of flammable mixtures.
2. Connect only to IEC 60950-1 or IEC 60601-1 3rd edition certified products and power sources. The end user is responsible for ensuring the resulting medical system complies with IEC 60601-1 3rd edition requirements.
3. Wipe with a dry cloth; no additional maintenance required.
4. No serviceable parts; the unit must be sent back to the manufacturer for repair.
5. No modifications are allowed without Aruba approval.

Taiwan Regulatory Information

Regulatory information for Taiwan is provided in Traditional Chinese, concerning frequency changes, power adjustments, and interference with legal communications.

Taiwan:

第十二條 → 經型式認證合格之低功率射頻電機,非經許可,公司、商號或使用者均不得擅自變更頻率、加大功率或變更原設計之特性及功能。

第十四條 → 低功率射頻電機之使用不得影響飛航安全及干擾合法通信;經發現有干擾現象時,應立即停用,並改善至無干擾時方得繼續使用。

前項合法通信,指依電信法規定作業之無線電通信。低功率射頻電機須忍受合法通信或工業、科學及醫療用電波輻射性電機設備之干擾。

Contact Aruba

For support and further information:

Copyright

©Copyright 2017 Hewlett Packard Enterprise Development LP

Open Source Code

This product includes code licensed under various open source licenses. A complete machine-readable copy of the source code is available upon request for a nominal fee. This offer is valid for three years following the date of the product's final distribution.

Warranty

This hardware product is protected by an Aruba warranty. For more details, visit www.hpe.com/us/en/support.html.

Aruba, a Hewlett Packard Enterprise company
www.arubanetworks.com
3333 Scott Boulevard
Santa Clara, California 95054
USA