A site survey is required for proper implementation of a wireless network. No one can tell exactly how wireless equipment will operate in every circumstance without a survey. This includes both in-building wireless LANs and bridges between buildings.

This is especially true within a building where there are hidden obstacles in the walls or other existing wireless applications, and is equally true for outdoor wireless links where obstacles such as trees and power lines are involved.

Wireless surveys analyze the conditions required to provide an optimal radio link. The complexity of the survey depends on the nature and details of the proposed network. These details include the physical area of the network, factors within the building, and for outdoor bridges the number of sites involved, the terrain and the distance between sites.

Does the Site Qualify?

SuperUser starts the process by discussing whether the site qualifies. Our engineers will determine whether a wireless network is feasible, and how complex the survey needs to be. We will discuss issues of security, outside interference, building structure, and in the case of long-distance outdoor wireless bridges, whether there is true line of sight.

The Site Survey

The complexity of the site survey required depends on which wireless solution is proposed. A simple solution in a building is a predominantly open space with few structural walls, or an outdoor point-to-point wireless bridge under six miles where there is true line-of-sight between the two locations. These require a basic site survey.

A multiple-site indoor wireless LAN, or an indoor wireless LAN with multiple rooms/floors and/or solid walls and unusual construction will both require a more complex site survey. Similarly with a point-to-point wireless bridge in excess of six miles or without true line-of-sight.

Who should perform the Site Survey?

A team of engineers with expertise in LANs, Radio Frequency analysis and Antenna Placement should perform the site survey. While many organizations have LAN expertise, RF expertise is not so widely available. SuperUser Solutions has a team of RF engineers and installers who are qualified to perform complex site surveys. To assure a successful design and implementation, it is critical that engineers with RF expertise participate in the wireless site.