Site Survey Equipment
Equipment

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.


Interactive Media Activity

Interactive Activity: Survey Materials

In this activity, the student will place the correct devices/items (water drop) into the correct bucket.

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