3 Types of Wireless Site Surveys and How to Conduct Them
In today's fast-paced digital world, a reliable wireless network is a must for businesses of all sizes. But before you can install a wireless network, you need to conduct a site survey to determine the best placement of access points and ensure optimal coverage. In this article, we will discuss the three most common types of wireless site surveys and how to conduct them effectively.
Passive Site Survey: A passive site survey involves using a wireless device to passively listen to the existing wireless network signals in the area. This type of survey is useful for understanding the current wireless environment, identifying sources of interference, and determining the best channels for your access points. To conduct a passive site survey, simply walk around the site with a Wi-Fi analyzer tool and record the signal strength and channel information.
Active Site Survey: An active site survey involves actively sending out a wireless signal from a test access point to measure signal strength, noise levels, and data throughput. This type of survey is useful for identifying dead zones, determining the ideal placement of access points, and ensuring that the network can handle the intended workload. To conduct an active site survey, place a test access point at various locations around the site and use a Wi-Fi survey tool to measure the signal strength and data throughput.
Predictive Site Survey: A predictive site survey involves using specialized software to create a virtual model of the site and predict the ideal placement of access points based on factors like that building layout, materials, and potential sources of intervention. This type of survey is useful for planning a wireless network before installation and ensuring optimal coverage and performance. To conduct a predictive site survey, input the site's floor plan and building materials into the software, then use the tool to generate a heat map showing the predicted coverage and signal strength.
In conclusion, conducting a wireless site survey is essential for ensuring a reliable and efficient wireless network. By utilizing passive, active, and predictive site surveys, businesses can identify potential issues, optimize network performance, and provide seamless connectivity to users. Remember to always consider factors such as building layout, interference sources, and user requirements when planning and conducting wireless surveys and solutions.
