Transforming Connectivity with Advanced Wired Site Survey Insight

In today's hyper-connected world, a robust and efficient wireless network infrastructure is indispensable. Businesses rely on seamless connectivity for everything from basic operations to cutting-edge innovations. At US Orion, we pride ourselves on delivering transformative wireless network solutions. We conducted a comprehensive wired site survey at a 750,000 sq. ft. facility in New Jersey, USA. The objective was to upgrade the existing wireless network infrastructure and cabling to improve connectivity, scalability, and performance across the office and warehouse spaces. Below, we outline the key findings, technical solutions implemented, and the outcomes of this project. 

Site Overview

• Location: New Jersey
• Type of Facility: Office/Warehouse
• Total Area: 750,000 sq. ft.
• Survey Conducted: August, 2024

 
Site Map

Key Findings

Fiber Connectivity:

• Existing single-mode fiber (SMF) between MDF and multiple IDFs was reusable in selected locations.
• Gaps were identified in outdoor and extended warehouse areas that required new fiber installations.

Copper Cabling:

• Out of 95 planned access points, 75 required new CAT6A cable runs.
• Existing CAT6A cables were deemed reusable after testing.

IDF Cabinets:

• Several cabinets were outdated or poorly located, necessitating relocation or replacement.
• New cabinets were required in 4 locations.

Access Points:

• A total of 95 access points were identified for deployment, including internal and outdoor APs.
• Some outdoor APs were removed from the scope to streamline the project.

AP  Placement

Solutions Implemented

1. Fiber Network:

• Installed 48-strand outdoor-rated SMF between MDF and key splice points.
• Ran new fiber to 3 IDF locations.
• Reused existing fiber for 2 IDF's.

 2. Copper Infrastructure:

• Installed 75 CAT6A cable runs to support new access points.
• Verified and reused 21 existing CAT6A cables in good condition.
• Replaced 17 MDF cables (13 gray, 4 black) for compatibility with new hardware.

3. IDF Upgrades:

• Relocated 3 IDF's to improve accessibility and performance.
• Installed new slimline cabinets for 3 IDF's.
• Added 2 new IDF cabinets to support expanded connectivity needs.

4. Access Points :

• Deployed APs with optimized placement for maximum coverage:
            Office spaces: Ceiling-mounted internal APs.
            Warehouse: Beam-mounted APs with extended coverage antennas.
            Outdoor areas: Weatherproof APs in insulated enclosures.

Project Challenges

1. High Ceilings in Warehouses: 

• Solution: Utilized scissor lifts to safely install cabling and APs at heights.

2. Outdoor Environments:

• Solution: Selected weatherproof APs and used insulated enclosures with integrated cooling for outdoor reliability.

3. Minimizing Downtime:

• Solution: Conducted work during off-peak hours and implemented temporary configurations to avoid disruption.

The wireless network upgrade has delivered significant improvements in connectivity and operational efficiency. By enhancing the fiber backbone and copper infrastructure, the facility now benefits from high-speed, reliable data transmission across all areas, including offices, warehouses, and outdoor docks. Employees experience seamless communication, faster data processing, and improved workflow continuity.
The introduction of new cabinets at IDF locations and the strategic placement of access points have optimized signal coverage, ensuring no blind spots remain in critical areas. Outdoor-rated APs, equipped with weatherproof enclosures, now extend connectivity to external areas, supporting operations like yard management and logistics.
Furthermore, this project has future-proofed the facility’s infrastructure. The upgraded wireless network is scalable and ready to integrate IoT devices, making it adaptable to emerging technologies and increased demands. With robust planning and execution, US Orion has ensured that the new setup can support the Client's growth for years.

Please get in touch with the experts at Orion US today.

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