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 SITE
SURVEY - Procedures
Introduction:
Implementation of a Wi-Fi wireless LAN (WLAN) network, within or between
buildings, requires performing a site survey. No one can tell exactly how
wireless equipment will operate in every circumstance without a survey. This is
especially true in an intra-building application where there are load bearing or
asbestos-lined walls, or inter-building links where obstacles such as trees are
involved.
Site surveys for wired and wireless LAN networks
are similar. Wireless surveys also analyze the conditions required to provide an
optimal radio link. The complexity and details of the survey depend on the
complexity of the proposed network. The most important details are the number of
sites involved, the terrain and the distance between sites.
Site
Qualification:
This is the first step required to determine if a Wi-Fi wireless LAN (WLAN)
network is a feasible solution. With the assistance of our vendors, NAS has
assembled a set of forms
to help determine the feasibility of a wireless system.
Once these forms are completed, they should be
emailed or faxed to NAS engineers, who will determine if a wireless network is a practical
solution. These forms will also help determine how complex the site survey needs
to be.
Site Survey:
The site survey will ensure the proper wireless LAN solution can be designed for
the application. This survey is required if there is any question as to how the
proposed wireless system will operate, or to determine if it is feasible for the
application.
The complexity of the site survey required
depends on which of the following typical system configurations is proposed:
- Simple Wireless LAN Network
Configuration: This
is normally a point-to-point link under six miles where the open space
between the two locations is free of obstructions. In an intra-building
system, this would be a predominately open space with few structural walls.
This configuration requires a basic site survey.
- Complex Wireless LAN Network
Configuration: This
is a point-to-point system in excess of six miles; a point-to-point system
with obstructions in or near the path; a multi-site inter-building system;
or an intra-building system with multiple rooms and/or load-bearing walls.
Who Should Perform the Survey:
A team of persons should perform the site survey with expertise in wireless LANs
and RF links. RF expertise is not widely available. For this reason, NAS has
assembled a team of certified RF engineers and installers who are qualified to
perform complex site surveys nationwide. To assure a successful design and
implementation, it is critical that persons with RF link expertise participate
in the wireless system site survey.
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