Before installing a WLAN, ensure that there will be adequate radio wave
coverage throughout the facility and minimal RF interference.
Survey
equipment should include the following:
- Access point – The AP is needed for the base area of the survey. A spare is
always recommended.
- Client device – Use the client device that the customer wants to use.
Always take a spare.
- Laptop PC – Use the laptop PC with the chosen PC card. It is recommended to
use a heavy-duty battery and carry a spare battery.
- AP battery pack – AC power is not available in certain areas. One simple
device that can be used for short durations is an APC battery backup device.
Another
option is a TerraWave DC battery pack, which provides up to 8 hours of power.
Adapters for Cisco APs and bridges are provided. A special inline power adapter
can be purchased.
- Antennas – Take all the antenna varieties that may be needed. All areas of
coverage can be different.
- Digital camera – Take pictures to compare the site survey with the actual
equipment locations at installation time.
- Cables – Category 5 patch cables may be needed. Have a box of cable and a
bag of connectors on hand. That way, any length of cable needed can be made.
The following miscellaneous items should also be included:
- Tie wraps – It may be necessary to tie wrap the AP or antenna when
surveying.
- Duct tape – This item is always a necessity.
- Small flashlight – The ceiling area may have no lights.
- Equipment – Always use the equipment the end user will use. Do not survey
with a rubber ducky unless that is what the customer will use.
- Labeling device – It may be helpful to label cables, locations, and devices
,
. Colored
tape, Sharpie markers, or stickers may be used.
- Ladder – Many times a ladder will be required to access ceilings and air
spaces above head. Different projects and tasks require the use of ladders of
varying styles, sizes, duty rating, and materials. Keep safety in mind and
choose the right ladder for the job.
- Extension cords and drop light – If extended testing is needed, a battery
pack may not last long enough to complete the test. Also, a droplight may be a
better option than a flashlight and does not require an extra hand.
- Measuring devices – These are needed to determine cable distances and
coverage areas. A measuring wheel is shown in Figure
. A tape measure
is useful, and a pre-marked rope may be needed to measure vertical drops.
- Safety gear – Eye protection devices and hard hats should be worn while
working in ceilings or other hazardous areas. An orange florescent safety vest
should be worn to increase visibility.
- Binoculars or telescope – These are needed in site-to-site survey to check
line of sight for distances up to 40 km (25 miles). A laser or range finder may
be used.
- Communication devices – Walkie-talkies are very useful when working with a
survey partner or team. Cell phones can be used but be sure that the signal
strength is strong.
The following heavy machinery should be used:
- Crane – When performing a survey for a site-to-site WLAN deployment, it may
be necessary to rent a crane or lift device to reach a height up to 45.72 m
(150 ft) to determine any line-of-sight obstructions. A third party could be
hired to perform this task.
- Scissor lift – When working in areas with high ceilings or roofs above 6 m
(20 feet), it may be necessary to rent a scissor-type lift to access the area.
With the quantity and cost of equipment required for a site survey, it
may be necessary to use a heavy-duty mobile case. Having the right equipment is
professional and simplifies the job. Keep in mind that expensive tools are
targets for theft. Always secure or guard the equipment and tools.