Site Drawing
As listed in Figure
, be sure to have
a good set of paper copy prints for the walkthrough and site survey to annotate
any notes and mark coverage areas. If a set of blueprints/drawing from the
customer is requested, remember to allow two to three weeks for them to obtain
copies. Digital drawings are best for transferring information into a report at
a later date.
Site Walkthrough
This critical step will help
define the areas of coverage and blind spots in the facility. The customer
should conduct the walkthrough and acknowledge any requirements or concerns. A
site walkthrough is also useful to locate any possible sources of radio
frequency interference (RFI), electro-magnetic interference (EMI),
environmental, or construction issues by looking for other antennas or
high-voltage electrical motors. Some elements of the environment that define
the possible coverage for the area include the following:
- Other WLANs
- High voltage electrical motors
- Corrugated steel walls or ceilings
- Amount of rebar in the concrete
- Metal oxide window tinting
- Inventory such as materials and supplies
Build a site layout based on the drawings identifying the coverage
desired and issues found on the walkthrough.