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Chapter 11. Performing a WLAN Site Survey

This chapter covers the following topics:

Steps in the Site Survey Process

Surveying with the AirMagnet Tool

Assisted Site Surveys

Site Surveying for Repeater Usage

Dual-Band Surveys

Site Surveys for Voice

Final Verification

The ultimate goal of an RF site survey is to supply enough information to accurately locate, install, and configure the RF parameters of the access points (APs) and antennas, which in turn will provide the required coverage and performance defined in the WLAN design. In most implementations, coverage and performance include some minimum throughput value at all defined user locations. As a secondary task, a site survey should include a report detailing other RF signals, including other WLANs, as well as any competing RF signals and interference. Recommendation for proper placement, mounting, and configuration of APs and antennas to counter these competing RF signals is another requirement of the site survey.

The overall need for a complex survey, or a simple test and verification, will vary depending on the site and the requirements of the users and applications. A small two- or three-room office might not need a survey, because one or two APs might provide adequate coverage. In this case, a simple verification might be all that is needed when installing the WLAN. When the site includes multiple APs, unique coverage areas, or large numbers of users, however, a survey is highly recommended.