A wireless network can be one of the most important features of your business, creating efficiencies, enhancing mobility, and allowing for real-time communication. To drive those benefits, a radio frequency (RF) site survey is the most important step in implementing any wireless network. RF site survey is the process of evaluating RF behavior in an environment and determining the best way to implement a WLAN based on this information
Radio waves do not travel the same distance in all directions. Walls, doors, elevator shafts, people, and other obstacles offer varying degrees of attenuation, which cause the radio frequency (RF) radiation pattern to be irregular and unpredictable. As a result, one should have an RF site survey performed to understand fully the behavior of radio waves within a facility before installing any wireless devices. A poorly designed wireless network can negatively impact the deployment of your wireless network dependant application, even in the pilot phase
The RF Site Survey Process
The information collected in a RF site survey comprises the physical aspects of the network. This includes access point mounting locations, antenna selection, and radio specific details such as operating frequency and transmission power. The RF signal propagation of each access point is meticulously documented and spectrum analysis is performed to identify potential sources of interference which may need to be avoided or eliminated.
Our RF site survey findings are documented and delivered in a complete RF Site Survey Report which provides the information necessary to install network cabling, procure hardware, and ultimately deploy the network. This report is accompanied by an Interactive RF Site Survey Report. This unique deliverable, provided with each site survey we perform, allows for a much deeper understanding of the wireless propagation than a static report.
The RF Site Survey report is a written document detailing all required information for the deployment of the wireless network. This information includes access point mounting locations, radio output powers and RF operating channels. Antenna types and cable requirements are also included in the report.
