A number of factors influence the placement of wireless products within the
network. The site survey and link test tools provided with the Aironet client
utility (ACU) can help determine the best placement for Access Points and
workstations within the wireless network.
Site Survey
Tool
Because of differences in component configuration, placement, and
physical environment, every network application is a unique installation.
Before installing the system, a site survey should be performed to determine
the optimum placement of networking components. This is done in order to
maximize range, coverage, and network performance. The Site Survey Tool is
shown in Figure
.
Consider
the following operating and environmental conditions when performing a site
survey:
- Sensitivity and range are inversely proportional to data bit rates. The
maximum radio range is achieved at the lowest workable data rate. A decrease in
receiver threshold sensitivity occurs as the radio data increases.
- Proper antenna configuration is a critical factor in maximizing radio
range. As a general rule, range increases in proportion to antenna height.
- Physical environment is important because clear or open areas provide
better radio range than closed or filled areas. The less cluttered the work
environment is, the greater the range will be.
- A physical obstruction such as metal shelving or a steel pillar can hinder
performance of the client adapter. Placing the workstation in a location where
there is a metal barrier between the sending and receiving antennas should be
avoided.
- Radio penetration is greatly influenced by the building material used in
construction. Drywall construction allows greater range than concrete blocks.
Metal or steel construction is a barrier to radio signals.
- Because the client adapter is a radio device, it is susceptible to RF
obstructions and common sources of interference that can reduce throughput and
range. The client adapter should be installed away from microwave ovens.
Microwave ovens operate on the same frequency as the client adapter and can
cause signal interference.
Link Test Tool
The link test tool is used to determine RF
coverage. The test results can help the installer to eliminate areas of low RF
signal levels that can result in a loss of connection between the client
adapter and the AP. Figure
illustrates the ACU Link Test Tool.