In today's digital age, wireless networking plays a vital role in communication and technology. To guarantee the optimal performance of these networks, site surveys are conducted to gather crucial information about the operating environment. Utilizing the AP on the Stick (APoS) Site Survey method has become a popular choice, with the Ekahau tool standing out as one of the most preferred options for conducting these surveys.
What is an AP on the Stick Site Survey?
Utilizing an AP on the Stick Site Survey involves deploying a wireless access point (AP) atop a tall pole or "stick" to capture essential data regarding the wireless network. By mounting the AP on a pole and traversing the area, the surveyor can gather valuable insights into signal coverage and strength. An example of this setup can be seen in the image below, showcasing how Orion US conducts its site surveys.
AP on the Stick - Recently used APoS by our wireless team
Why Ekahau for AP on the Stick Site Survey?
Ekahau is a popular tool for performing AP on the Stick Site Surveys because of its ease of use and accuracy. The tool provides real-time data on the wireless network's coverage and strength, making it easy to identify areas of weak signal coverage. Ekahau also provides a variety of analysis and visualization tools that make it simple to understand and interpret the survey data. Below is a sample of the heat map generated by the Ekahau site survey software.
A Sample of Wireless Heat Map generated by Ekahau Site Survey Software
How to Perform an AP on the Stick Site Survey with Ekahau?
To perform an AP on the Stick Site Survey with Ekahau, follow these steps:
1. Gather the necessary equipment, including the wireless AP, a laptop or tablet with Ekahau installed, and a pole or stick to mount the AP powered by a Battery.
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Mast: Studio Assets MegaMast 27.5'- more information can be found here. One of the best Mast we have used so far. It goes up to 27 feet and is extremely stable even at such a height. 3Sab currently has 4 masts of these we use them regularly along with smaller masts for all our AP on the Stick design in the USA and Canada.
2. Configure the AP to work with Ekahau. This typically involves connecting the AP to a laptop or tablet and configuring it to work with the Ekahau software. In this step, you will also be fixed on the Power Level you would like to use for your survey. The AP also has to be changed to Autonomous mode or EWC [for cisco AP]. More information on this can be found here.
3. Start the Ekahau survey and walk around the area with the AP mounted on the pole or stick. As you walk, Ekahau will collect data about the wireless signal coverage and strength. The below image shows a survey path on the Ekahau site survey software performed by our technician.
A sample of the survey path on Ekahau Site Survey Software by our technician in Ontario, Canada
4. Analyze the survey data in Ekahau. The tool provides a variety of analysis and visualization tools that make it simple to understand and interpret the survey data.
5. Use the survey data to optimize the wireless network. Based on the data collected during the survey, you can make changes to the network to improve its coverage and performance.
In conclusion, an AP on the Stick Site Survey using Ekahau is a valuable tool for designing and optimizing wireless networks. It provides real-time data on the wireless network's coverage and strength, making it easy to identify areas of weak signal coverage. With its ease of use and accuracy, Ekahau is a popular choice for performing AP on the Stick Site Surveys.
Please get in touch with the experts at Orion US today.
Image Source: Canva